Sustainability in Color Science

Izayah King

Department of Textiles, Fashion Merchandising, and Design

TMD 113: Color Science

Richard Malachowski

November 15th, 2024

Color science, a field that's always fascinated me, deals with everything from how we perceive

color to how we create and use it in everyday life. In recent years, a significant shift has

happened, an increased focus on sustainability. This change wasn’t just an academic exercise; it

reflects a need to be kinder and more appreciative of our planet, especially in industries like

textiles, automotive, and consumer goods, where color plays a pivotal role. I’m here to discuss

how these sustainable practices in color science are making a real-world impact by merging

ecological awareness with new-age technology. Whenever I come across distinct-colored clothes

or eye-appealing products, it’s hard to ignore that these pigments and dyes often come with an

expensive price. Waterways, ecosystems, and human health can all be negatively impacted by

conventional colorants. The textile sector is a prime example of the issue due to its intense water

processes along with waste production. However, the need for color scientists to come up with

sustainable solutions has been growing, which has pushed scientists to create more

environmentally friendly substitutes.

One of the most intriguing areas of development has been bio-based pigments and dyes. It is

using resources from plants or microbes to create colors without harmful byproducts. Scientists
are now working with bacteria and fungi to produce pigments more sustainably, offering a

low-carbon option that’s also gentle on water resources. For example, if we were to examine

indigo dye, it's been derived from plants, but now we can produce it with genetically engineered

bacteria. This method helps cut out harmful chemicals needed in the older synthetic processes.

This is a big win for someone huge on reducing environmental impact. A notable shift is the

development of colorants that aren’t non-toxic but also recyclable. This aligns perfectly with the

economic goals of reducing waste. Having vibrant colors without the heavy metals would be

inevitable. Scientists are crafting colors free of harmful components, making sure colors remain

vibrant & aid in recycling efforts.

Considering how much our world today utilizes technology, like digital and 3D printing, not

many know it can enhance sustainability. These technologies don’t only preserve resources but

also assist in cutting down on waste. In textile printing, you can also now have complex designs

with far less water usage, which is crucial for water conservation. The ability of 3D printing also

includes color directly into the manufacturing process, and preventing unnecessary material

waste is another positive factor. Traditional dyeing techniques have consumed a lot of water and

often contaminated our rivers. Seeing CO2 dyeing was a sight to see. By dissolving colors with

CO2 under certain conditions, we may completely avoid using water, preventing pollution and

launching environmentally beneficial dye recovery.

An area that grasped my attention was how color technology is evolving to include smart

material. Material that changes color based on present environmental conditions. This could lead
to new ideas & technology. This responsive tech is not only intriguing but also aligns perfectly

with energy-saving goals, it’s especially pivotal for industries like automotive and construction. I

could go on for a while if I were to discuss the importance of knowing a product’s environmental

impact from start to end. This information is provided by lifecycle assessments, which help

industries obtain green certifications and direct changes. We may make educated decisions as

customers thanks to these certifications, such as the Global Organic Textile Standard, which

guarantees that eco-friendly procedures are followed.

The fashion industry is already putting in a ton of effort in regards to adopting sustainable

practices, dyes, and printing techniques to cut back on waste and lend transparency to their

practices. Also, the automotive industry is exploring sustainable coatings and techniques that

boost energy efficiency.

These examples help demonstrate how sustainability is transforming color science and is no

longer just a topic being thrown around with no action being done. One color at a time, industry

and researchers are creating a more sustainable and brighter future by combining creativity with

responsibility. As someone who cares about the environment & is currently and has been

learning more and more about sustainability and its importance to our environment and the

future, it’s nice seeing this unfold to help this change seem more convincing, helping contribute

to a change for the better. The shift towards bio-based pigments, recyclable colorants, sustainable

clothing manufacturers, eco-friendly shopping, and waterless dyeing processes highlights that

sustainability isn't an unrealistic goal anymore. Knowing that these items have been created with

a lighter environmental touch makes a difference.

dedication to protecting the environment rather than simply just a scientific breakthrough. I'm

excited about what our world’s future holds and hope these new emerging ideas and techniques

will result in more environmentally friendly practices, encouraging future generations to value

color and the environment.

Works Cited

Datacolor. (2023, March 29). Sustainability, color, and the textile industry: What you need

to know.

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Haller, K. (2024, January 18). How can sustainability and color trends coexist? LinkedIn.

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Vankar, P. S. (n.d.). Natural dyes for textiles. Google Books.

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Sustainability Science - Springer. (2019). [Link].

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Brandslet, S. (2022, February 3). Nature’s colors can replace toxic pigments. Norwegian

SciTech News.

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‌Color Science | Color Kinetics. (2018). Color Kinetics.

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