Acrylic sweaters are a popular choice for their warmth and low cost, but at Circular People, we believe that convenience should not come at the expense of our planet. As a company dedicated to environmental responsibility, we have made the decision to ban acrylic from all of our products.

We want to empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions. If you choose to shop for acrylic from other brands, here is what you need to know about this fiber.

What is Acrylic? A Plastic Fiber

Acrylic is a synthetic fiber, meaning it is made from plastic derived from fossil fuels like petroleum. It's often marketed as a synthetic alternative to wool, and while it provides warmth and a soft feel, it has a significant environmental footprint.

The Environmental Problems with Acrylic

• Microplastic Pollution: This is acrylic's biggest problem. Every time you wash an acrylic garment, it sheds tiny plastic fibers, or microplastics, into our waterways. These microplastics pollute our oceans, are ingested by wildlife, and contaminate our food and water.

• Non-Biodegradable: Acrylic is a plastic that does not break down in the environment. An acrylic sweater will sit in a landfill for hundreds of years, unlike a natural wool sweater that would decompose.

• No Real Recycling: Unfortunately, there is no widespread, effective recycling program for acrylic clothing. This means almost all acrylic garments end up as waste at the end of their life.

How to Shop for Sustainable Alternatives

The most sustainable choice is to look for alternatives to acrylic.

• Choose Natural Fibers: For warmth and comfort, look for natural alternatives like wool, alpaca, or organic cotton. These fibers are renewable, biodegradable, and do not shed plastic microfibers. When buying wool, look for certifications like RWS or ZQ to ensure high standards of animal welfare.

• Opt for Recycled Content: If you do choose an item with acrylic, look for the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) or Recycled Claim Standard (RCS) labels, which indicate the product is made with recycled material.

• Care Consciously: To minimize the impact of any acrylic items you already own, wash them as little as possible. When you do wash them, use a microplastic-catching laundry bag or a filter on your washing machine.

By choosing natural, biodegradable fibers, you can help reduce plastic pollution and support a healthier planet.