YPIE Scientist: Ariella Ram

Research: The Biodegradability of Fabrics in a Small-scale Composting Environment

Awards: WESEF 2026 - The Ricoh Sustainable Development Award

Abstract:

Textile waste is a major contributor to global pollution, particularly due to the increasing use of synthetic, non-biodegradable materials in modern clothing. One potential solution to this issue is composting, which may allow certain fabrics to break down naturally and reduce landfill accumulation. In this study, the biodegradability of six different fabrics (cotton, denim, polyester, nylon, fleece, and a 50/50 cotton–polyester blend) was investigated over a 30-week composting period. Fabric samples were placed in a controlled compost environment and observed at regular intervals to assess physical changes such as fraying, thinning, and structural breakdown. The results showed that cotton exhibited the greatest level of decomposition, followed by denim, which degraded more slowly due to its thicker structure. The 50/50 cotton-polyester blend showed limited breakdown, while the fully synthetic fabrics (polyester, nylon, and fleece) showed little to no visible decomposition. These findings suggest that natural fibers are significantly more biodegradable than synthetic materials under composting conditions, highlighting the environmental impact of fabric composition and the potential for composting as a more sustainable method of textile waste management.

About this Scientist:   

Ariella Ram is a student at Yonkers High School pursuing the IB Diploma. She plans to attend the Fashion Institute of Technology, where she will study Fashion Business Management. She is interested in understanding consumer behavior and industry trends, and hopes to apply her analytical and research skills within the fashion business field.

Presentation Slides