Price, style and fit: there are many factors that come into play when we’re shopping for clothes. The survival of our marine life usually isnΆt one of them.

New YorkΆs WCBS said peopleΆs gym clothes could be dangerous to our health, due to the apparelΆs fibers. The garmentsΆ manmade fabrics break down in the laundry, forcing the lint fibers to wash out into public waterways and attract pollutants, which are eaten by fish — fish that we consume.

Fish are eating polyester and suffering as a result. If we donΆt make a change, this is just the beginning. All of this is more than enough to avoid man-made fibers, but whatΆs our alternative?

Cotton has been proven to disintegrate far more easily than synthetic fibers, causing less damage and ecological harm. Ecologists discovered that 85% of human-made materials on shorelines were microfibers, with a majority from materials such as nylon and acrylic. In a seven-month study at the College of William and Mary, a 100% polyester sample saw minimal deterioration, while a 100% cotton sample had 100% disintegration. Cotton Incorporated is working with researchers to better understand the effects of aquatic environments on cotton fibers.

While we continue research and our promise to inform the community on our efforts, we all need to make strides together. A move towards natural fabrics may be one way to help save marine life and our own health. Being sure clothesΆ fiber content is at least 60% cotton is the first step. ItΆs time to check the label.

This article was adapted from the Cotton Incorporated Lifestyle Monitor.