Question 1: Explain what is meant by 'sustainable design' in textiles. Why is it important for the environment?

Answer: Sustainable design in textiles involves creating products that have minimal negative impact on the environment, such as using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and conserving resources. It is important because it helps protect natural resources, reduces pollution, and supports ethical practices.

Question 2: List three eco-friendly materials that can be used in textile production and briefly explain why they are sustainable.

Answer: 1. Organic cotton – grown without harmful pesticides or chemicals. 2. Bamboo fabric – fast-growing, renewable, and biodegradable. 3. Recycled polyester – made from recycled plastic bottles, reducing waste and resource use.

Question 3: Describe one way a designer can make their textile product more sustainable during the manufacturing process.

Answer: A designer can choose to use water-efficient dyeing techniques or natural dyes to reduce water pollution and chemical use during production.

Question 4: Sketch a simple sustainable textile product, such as a reusable shopping bag or a clothing item made from eco-friendly materials. Label key features that make it sustainable.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a basic reusable shopping bag made from organic cotton or recycled materials. Labels should indicate features like 'recycled fabric,' 'biodegradable,' or 'eco-friendly dye.'

Question 5: Identify and explain two ways that reducing waste can contribute to sustainability in textiles.

Answer: Reducing waste means less material is discarded, which conserves resources and reduces landfill. It also decreases pollution caused by waste disposal and manufacturing excess materials.

Question 6: Imagine a clothing brand wants to promote sustainability. Suggest two strategies they could use to encourage customers to make eco-friendly choices.

Answer: They could offer discounts for returning old clothes for recycling and create awareness campaigns about the benefits of sustainable textiles.

Question 7: Explain the concept of 'fast fashion' and how it conflicts with sustainability in textiles.

Answer: Fast fashion refers to quickly producing inexpensive clothing to meet current trends, leading to excessive waste, overuse of resources, and environmental harm. It conflicts with sustainability because it encourages disposable clothing and unsustainable manufacturing practices.

Question 8: Draw a diagram showing the lifecycle of a sustainable textile product from raw material to disposal. Label each stage briefly.

Answer: A diagram should include stages such as raw material sourcing (e.g., organic cotton farming), manufacturing, transportation, use/wear, and end-of-life disposal or recycling. Labels should be clear and concise.

Question 9: Suggest one innovative idea for making textile products more sustainable in the future. Describe your idea briefly.

Answer: One idea could be developing biodegradable textiles made from natural fibers that decompose safely after disposal, reducing landfill waste.