WARDROBE

The last thing we think of as polluting is our clothing. But In fact, there are environmental repercussions to all types of clothes. Polyester and other man-made materials are petroleum based, and "natural" materials undergo a great deal of chemical treatment before reaching the store. The cotton Industry alone is the third largest user of pesticides in the world. The wardrobe department will have its greatest Impact In Its choice of cleaning and maintenance.

MATERIALS: If you are sewing costumes, be aware of the materials you choose.
• Animal-derived materials like fur are produced at the expense of great suffering by the animal. Avoid supporting the industries that produce these products.
• Synthetic materials like plastic and polyester are made from petroleum through a series of toxic processes.
• Dyes: Use natural dyes. Most directors of photography prefer off-white to white in any case, as white is highly reflective. If you need to dull your whites, soak the garments in tea to take the edge off.

HANGERS: If you are buying your own hangers, buy metal ones, and wood for the heavy clothes. These products are more durable than plastic.

CLEANING: Most brand name detergents are toxic to the environment and contain components such as whiteners which are carcinogens and allergens, Use biodegradable detergents.
• Dry cleaning is a process that incorporates chlorinated compounds which are toxic and a threat to the ozone. Try to find alternatives to dry cleaning; Most labels call for dry cleaning or hand washing.
Many Chinese laundries still hand wash. Give them your business.

LEFTOVER MATERIAL: Give scraps of material you, cannot use to a public school art department. The children can make puppets and collages with them. If you have a large surplus, donate it to thrift stores or Material for the Arts.