Today’s sustainable fibre will be sisal. Sisal is a fibre that is native to Mexico derived from the Agave plant (Yay, tequila!), it is a hardy plant that grows in hot climates. In addition, it is actually able to grow in dry areas that tend to be, for the crops, quite unsuitable. These can be cut or crushed. This is then made into a pulp from the fibres. The average yield is about one tonne per hectare with the yield and the staff of about 2.5 tonnes. I find this to be quite amazing because it is an increase in productivity of about 2.5 times, exactly.

Agave Sisal

The fibre is illustrious and creamy white according to the Food and Agricultural organization of the United Nations. It can measure up to 1 metre in length, and is very durable as well as having an elasticity component to it. It is not able to absorb moisture easily, but can resist deterioration from salt water. Its main cultivation is in Brazil, China, Cuba, Kenya, Haiti, Madagascar, and Mexico. The global production of sisal is collected in moderately large amounts of around 300,000 tons, with an estimated net value, per annum, of $75 million. 35 to 40% of that 300,000 tons is produced by Brazil at about 120,000 tons. And 5/6 th’s of that produced by Brazil is exported as raw fibre and manufactured goods.

Sisal fibres are made into rope and yarn that is popularly used to make rugs, bags, bath sponges, and even wall coverings. “New products are being developed continuously, such as furniture and wall tiles made of resined sisal. A recent development expanded the range even to car parts for cabin interiors.”

Sisal desk

The compatibility and multitude of uses of this natural fibre is simply amazing!

About the Author

Scott Douglas Jacobsen researches and presents independent panels, papers, and posters, and with varied research labs and groups, and part-time in landscaping and gardening, and runs In-Sight Publishing and In-Sight: Independent Interview-Based Journal.

• Scott.Jacobsen@TrustedClothes.Com
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