Weaving Sustainability

Abstract

Fibers are integral to the fashion industry, functioning as essential materials and cultural symbols within a global network of production and consumption. This paper adopts a planetary perspective, exploring fibers as dynamic material flows across human, non-human, living, and technological realms. Using Cannabis sativa L. stems as a case study, we examine their transformation from waste to resource, highlighting their potential role in a circular economy. This includes governance and ethical considerations, cultural histories, and the relationship between fibers and geographical locations where all these elements synergize. Understanding fibers holistically is crucial for fostering a sustainable future in fashion and embracing the inherent nobility of fiber.