Nylon fabrics are generally unsustainable. Manufacturing virgin nylon from conventional fossil fuels uses a lot of energy, exacerbates the climate crisis, and causes environmental pollution. Also, the microplastics released from washing nylon fabrics pose health risks to wildlife and humans.

Conventional nylon is not biodegradable, and improper disposal of products containing nylon can lead to further microplastic contamination. Even when properly disposed of, microscopic pieces of fiber will slough off nylon as it's worn and contribute to waterway plastic pollution.

Nylon is not a sustainable fabric. It is a synthetic polymer, meaning it's a man-made material that doesn't occur naturally. It is derived from chemicals such as adipic acid, maleic anhydride, and petroleum, which are combined through a process known as polycondensation to form nylon 6,6 (an organic compound).

Compared to other plastic-based fibres, manufacturing and processing of nylon is energy-intensive, which causes emission of greenhouse gases leading to global warming. Moreover, the process releases nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide, and which depletes the ozone.

Manufacturing of virgin Nylon is NOT sustainable over the long term and yet recycling is extremely rare. Similar to other plastics, it is made of non-renewable resources which we have been rapidly depleting over the last few decades. Moreover, petrochemical processing releases carbon dioxide and methane emissions that accelerate global warming.