Overview
Low impact dyes are a type of dye that is considered to have a lower environmental impact than conventional synthetic dyes. These dyes contain no harmful chemicals and require less rinsing, resulting in a higher absorption rate and less water usage. Low impact fiber reactive dyes, a subcategory of low impact dyes, work by molecularly bonding to the fabric, eliminating the need for a mordant to fix the dye to the fabric.
One of the main benefits of low impact dyes is their certification by the OEKO-TEX Standard 100, which ensures that they are free of harmful substances. However, low impact dyes are still produced from petrochemicals, which are non-renewable resources. In contrast, natural dyes are made from renewable sources, making them a potentially more sustainable choice.
While low impact dyes are considered to be eco-friendly, their production process still requires the use of salt, alkali, leveling, and fixing agents. High salinity levels can be damaging to freshwater ecosystems, making it important to dispose of wastewater in a mindful way.
Overall, the sustainability of low impact dyes depends on the entire lifecycle of the dye, including sourcing and processing. Natural dyes may be a better choice in some cases, but low impact dyes can be a more sustainable alternative depending on the specific circumstances.
