Natural Vs. Man-Made Materials: Exploring the Environmental Impacts
At first glance, natural materials like wood, cotton or wool seem like the obvious eco-friendly choice. They come from renewable sources, and most are biodegradable. On the other hand, manufactured materials like plastics and synthetic fabrics are engineered for durability and performance. Both categories have their place in the modern world, but to understand their true impact, you must look beyond simple "natural” versus “artificial" labels.
The Materials Dilemma
Natural materials have a long history in everything from homebuilding to fashion, growing more than three times over the last 50 years. Compared with 2020, consumption of this natural resource is forecasted to rise by 60% by 2060, according to the UN's International Resource Panel.
For example, wood is a favored resource because trees can be renewable. With proper forest management, timber can be harvested sustainably. Additionally, wooden structures continue to store carbon that trees have absorbed throughout their lives, keeping it out of the atmosphere longer. However, irresponsible logging leads to deforestation, habitat destruction, soil degradation and biodiversity loss.
For those looking to make informed choices, various certification systems help assess the environmental credentials of natural and man-made products. One example is the Kitchen Cabinet Manufacturing Association Environmental Stewardship Program, which guarantees cabinets meet today’s standards for sustainability and responsibility.
Even natural fibers like cotton have considerable environmental implications. While it comes from plants that can be grown season after season, conventional farming is notorious for its intensive water usage and heavy pesticide application.
This shows that "natural" doesn't automatically mean "environmentally friendly." No material is without its environmental costs, and the methods used to produce it are just as important as the end product.
The Impact of Man-Made Materials
Artificial materials — particularly plastics — have revolutionized how people build because they require lower production costs than many natural alternatives. Synthetic materials like PVC, vinyl siding, and foam insulation have better weathering resistance, lower maintenance and energy efficiency benefits that can reduce a home's carbon footprint through improved thermal performance needs.
In fashion, synthetic fabrics like polyester, acrylic and nylon are valued for their versatility and longevity. Unfortunately, they are derived from fossil fuels and require energy-intensive manufacturing processes. Polyester, for instance, emits three times more carbon than cotton and sheds microplastics with every wash. These tiny particles then contaminate the oceans, drinking water and soil.
Many artificial materials do not biodegrade. Instead, they are discarded and end up in landfills, where they accumulate, contributing to pollution. When they break down, they release toxins into the soil, water and air, posing risks to vegetation, wildlife and human health. This toxic legacy is one of the main environmental concerns associated with manufactured materials.
Make Informed Choices for a Sustainable Future
When comparing natural and artificial materials, it’s essential to find out where the one in question comes from, what the manufacturing process is and how it is disposed of. Evaluate whether the material can be recycled or biodegraded, reducing its long-term environmental impact.
In many cases natural materials can be better for the environment, but it’s important to look for sustainability certifications, recycled materials, fair trade and other eco-friendly practices when choosing a company to support. While there may not be one right answer in the natural versus artificial debate, making an informed decision is the best thing you can do as a consumer.
