Hazardous chemicals are used on a large scale in the clothing industry. Tests on clothing reveal traces of phthalates, NPE (nonylphenol ethoxylate) and amines in 63 per cent of cases. Both those working in production and those buying the clothes in shops absorb these harmful substances into their bodies, whilst the environment suffers from the large-scale discharge of chemicals that are difficult to break down and pose a health risk.
Phthalates are used to soften plastic. They are endocrine disruptors and can harm the foetus if you are pregnant. Phthalates are released slowly but continuously from the material to which they have been added, so they cannot be washed out.
NPE is used for cleaning and processing textiles. It breaks down into nonylphenol, which is both difficult to break down and an endocrine disruptor, and which reduces fertility in men.
Amines are carcinogenic, reduce fertility and cause lasting damage to the aquatic environment. They are formed from certain azo dyes used in textiles. The azo dyes in question are banned in the EU. Importation is also prohibited; nevertheless, amines are still found in clothing in shops.
The results of the study clearly show that legislation can only take us so far. Ultimately, it is the manufacturers themselves who must take responsibility for producing without hazardous chemicals. Fortunately, more and more brands and retail chains are entering into agreements to phase out toxic substances, and the focus on sustainability and responsibility is growing.
Source: Greenpeace 2012