Biology-Informed Textile Design: A Mixed-Method Study of Textile Professionals in the UK.

Area of Science:

• Explores the interdisciplinary nexus of fashion, textiles, and biological sciences.
• Focuses on sustainable innovation and NetZero transitions within the textile industry.

Background:

• The fashion and textile sectors are exploring biological disciplines for sustainable practices.
• A transition towards NetZero emissions is a key driver for industry innovation.

Purpose of the Study:

• To investigate the motivations, practices, and barriers of textile designers engaging with biological disciplines.
• To understand the integration challenges and opportunities in contemporary textile design.

Main Methods:

• Employs a mixed-methods approach combining qualitative and quantitative data.
• Utilizes an online survey distributed to professional textile designers.
• Applies thematic analysis, statistical methods, and information visualization for data correlation.

Main Results:

• Identifies a paradox: designers are motivated by sustainability but focus on aesthetics.
• Reveals strong commitment to improving sustainability in the fashion and textile industry.
• Highlights limited access to specialist knowledge and financial constraints as primary barriers.

Conclusions:

• Deeper integration of biological principles in textile design is hindered by practical constraints.
• Addressing knowledge gaps and financial barriers is crucial for advancing sustainable textile innovation.
• Balancing aesthetic considerations with biological integration is key for future industry practices.