Abstract

The rapid adoption of biodegradable fibers in the textile industry is often presented as an unequivocal solution to microfiber pollution and landfill accumulation. However, this commentary argues that the current emphasis on biodegradability overlooks a critical trade‑off: the inherent performance limitations of many biodegradable fibers-lower tensile strength, lower abrasion resistance, and higher moisture sensitivity-can lead to shorter product lifespans. Life cycle assessment evidence suggests that premature replacement may offset or even outweigh end‑of‑life biodegradation benefits. Furthermore, most commercial “biodegradable” claims are based on industrial composting conditions that do not reflect real‑world disposal scenarios. This commentary therefore calls for a differentiated, application‑specific strategy: prioritizing durability and recyclability for long‑lived products while reserving high‑biodegradability designs for short‑lived applications, alongside more ecologically relevant testing standards.