Ateneo de Zamboanga University

College of Nursing

In Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements

for the degree

Bachelor of Science in Nursing

“Recycled Plastics as Sustainable Threads for Multi-functional Textile

Applications”

Carama, Muhammad J.

Jalani, Shermina A.

Jardeleza, Kaye Knorrel O.

Lim, Ina Jean A.

Zamora, Aedreanne Nicole P.

Salazar, Kristal Mae T.

SY. 2023-2024
 Chapter 1
A. Introduction

A.1. Background of the Study

In today's rapidly evolving world, sustainability has become a critical concern across

various industries. As global awareness of environmental issues grows, so does the

need for innovative solutions to address these challenges. Among the numerous areas

where sustainability is gaining traction, the textile industry stands out as one that

demands immediate attention. This study delves into a fascinating and highly relevant

aspect of sustainable textile production—exploring the viability of recycled plastics as

sustainable threads for multi-functional textile applications.

According to Finucane et al. (2020), The textile industry is a significant

contributor to environmental degradation due to its extensive use of resources, including

water and energy, and its reliance on petroleum-based synthetic fibers. As the industry

seeks ways to reduce its ecological footprint, researchers and manufacturers are

turning to alternative materials and production processes that align with principles of

sustainability Doliente et al. (2020).

One promising avenue is the utilization of recycled plastics as threads for textiles.

Recycling plastics not only diverts them from landfills and oceans but also offers a

sustainable alternative to conventional textile materials as implied by Brunner (2022).

By converting plastics into threads suitable for various textile applications, we can

potentially reduce the demand for virgin materials, mitigate pollution, and contribute to a

circular economy.
 This research is critical in light of our present environmental issues. The fashion

and textile business has a significant environmental effect due to its resource-intensive

and frequently wasteful methods. We present a viable solution that coincides with the

ideals of sustainability, resource efficiency, and waste reduction by studying the

possibility of recovered plastics as textile threads. Furthermore, this discovery fills a void

in the present research landscape. While there is rising interest in sustainable textiles,

the use of recycled plastics as threads for multi-functional applications is still relatively

new. This study attempts to close that gap and contribute to a better knowledge of

sustainable textile production.

In the next chapters, we will look more into the procedures utilized to prepare

recycled plastics for textile applications, examine the outcomes of our tests, and explore

the ramifications of this research. We hope that our efforts will improve knowledge in the

subject and inspire new ideas that boost textile industry sustainability.

A.2. Statement of the Problem

This study aims to explore the viability of recycled plastics as sustainable threads for

multi-functional textile applications. This study also seeks to raise awareness of the role

that each person may have in reducing the load of plastic pollution. The main purpose

of this study focuses on the use of recycled plastics as an alternative multipurpose

material.

With this, the study specifically intends to answer the following:

1.) How does recycled plastics become useful in our environment?

 2.) What is the feasibility of utilizing recycled plastics as threads in various

textile applications, such as clothing, accessories, and functional textiles?

3.) What are the environmental benefits and drawbacks associated with using

recycled plastics in textile production compared to traditional materials?

A.3. Significance of the study

One of the most important functions of the study is Environmental Sustainability,

this study helps make textiles more eco-friendly. By using recycled plastics as threads,

it reduces the need for new materials and helps protect the environment from problems

like plastic pollution and running out of resources. Furthermore, Resource Efficiency,

this study is about using old plastic to make useful fabric materials. It helps save

resources by not throwing plastic in the trash and turning it into something valuable,

which also reduces waste. Lastly, Energy Conservation, this study looks at how using

recycled plastic to make textiles can save energy. Making textiles this way uses less

power and helps reduce pollution, making the industry more sustainable.

A.4. Scope and Delimitations of the Study

This study primarily focuses on the rising numbers of local business around the

Zamboanga City locale that utilizes an immense number of composite plastics and

polystyrene that are not properly disposed of and recycled according to the

manufacturer’s advice. Lastly, the researchers would like to explore the viability of

plastics as a sustainable thread for Multi-functional Textile Applications, and how it is

effective for long term sustainability.

A.5. Definition of Terms

For a better understanding of the study, the following are terms are defined in the

context of this research:

Recycling - This refers to the process of collection and reprocessing of waste

materials to be used and created into new products (The Editors of Encyclopedia

Britannica, 2020).

Sustainability - This refers to the integration of environmental health, social

equity and economic vitality with the aim of establishing vibrant, robust, diverse, and

sustainable communities for now and in the future (UCLA, n.d.)

Textile - This refers to any thread, fiber or yarn that can be made into fabric or

cloth, and the resulting material itself (Whewell & Abrahart, 2023).

Polystyrene - This refers to polymer of styrene, with thermo-insulating and

electrical insulating properties, often used in packaging (Merriam-Webster's Collegiate

Dictionary, n.d.)

Composite materials - this refers to composite materials that have a

combination of two or more materials that have been specifically designed to do a

specific job (TWI, Global, 2023).

 Fast fashion - This refers to clothing designs that move quickly from the catwalk

to stores to take advantage of trends. (Hayes, 2020).

Environmental degradation - This refers to the deterioration of the environment

through depletion of resources such as air, water and soil; the destruction of

ecosystems and the extinction of wildlife. (United Nations, 2015)

 Chapter 2

A. Review of Related Literature and Studies

A.1. Foreign Literature

Plastics are one of the wastes that needs to be reduced. There are a lot of

researchers trying to develop different products using recycled plastics. A study

conducted by Rita (2019) determined that sneakers made from recycled plastics are a

great way to address environmental issues. Brands that are well-known reduce the

perceived risks from the sneakers made from recycled plastics. The study offers

valuable insights aimed at promoting green consumption and enabling firms to gain a

competitive edge.

Additionally, Gandara et al. (2022) conducted a study to determine the

usefulness of recycled plastic bags as green composites. Gandara et al. used recycled

plastic bags that have been extruded with pineapple fiber waste. It is also a way to

reduce pineapple fiber waste and increase pineapple’s economic value. Thermal

analysis was used to determine the results. The results show that there is a potential to

reuse plastic bags and industrial waste for green composites.

Furthermore, a research study was conducted by Nikam et al. (2023) to address

the increase in plastic waste and environmental issues. The issue was approached by

researchers who conducted an investigation into the feasibility of developing a

sustainable 3D printing filament with recycled polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles.

The results obtained from this study will provide significant knowledge regarding the

viability of utilizing recycled PET bottles as a sustainable substitute for 3D printing

filaments. This study makes a valuable contribution towards the mitigation of plastic
waste and the promotion of sustainable practices within the field of additive

manufacturing.

A.2. Foreign Studies.

Recycling textile waste represents a sustainable approach to resource

conservation and waste reduction. However, a critical challenge lies in the fate of

recycled fibers, which often end up in low-value products. This literature review delves

into the concept of increasing the total value of recycled fibers by creating high-value

products, as proposed by Bhatia, Sharma, and Malhotra (2014). The review of the

concept of passive smart textiles, which primarily function as sensors to detect and

monitor environmental conditions. These textiles are capable of sensing various

parameters, such as temperature, humidity, and environmental pollutants. In contrast,

active smart textiles not only sense their surroundings but also respond to stimuli. This

category includes textiles designed to react to changes in temperature, pressure, or

other external triggers, making them dynamic and adaptive, according to Kuusisto

(2019).

Alioglu (2018) classified textiles based on their composition and production

process. Uncoated textiles are crafted from fine fibers and are woven at specific

locations. Examples of uncoated textiles include organic cotton fiber, fluoropolymer,

polyesters, polymer polyethylene, polymer polyamide (nylon fibers), polymer vectran,

and nonorganic fiberglass. In contrast, coated textiles have been developed with

applications such as facades in mind. These textiles are typically coated on both
exterior and interior sides to enhance their functionality. Commonly used coated textiles

include polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), and ethylene

tetrafluoroethylene (ETFE).

According to Dissanayake (2021), fabric waste recycling is emphasized as

crucial for achieving a circular economy in textiles. It discusses the need for recycling

due to resource recovery potential and environmental harm. It reveals an

underemphasis on fabric-to-fabric recycling, with mechanical recycling dominating

(43%). Open-loop recycling is prevalent (34%), and six key challenges are identified.

According to Wang (2021), they explore composite textiles using recycled plastic

bottles, oyster shell powder, and silica aerogels. These materials improve properties like

hydrophobicity, thermal conductivity, and antibacterial effects in textiles. The study

highlights the potential of these fabrics in various applications. In the study of Uyanik

(2020) it underscores the significance of incorporating recycled materials in the textile

industry. It focuses on bursting strength properties of knitted fabrics with recycled

polyester fibers and reaffirms their suitability for coarser yarns. The urgent issue of

ocean plastic pollution, estimating 165 million tons of plastics in the ocean by 2050.

They propose integrating plastic bottle melt filtration and fiber formation for recycling,

highlighting the potential to create a safer world and sustainable textile production

(Shamsuzzaman, 2019).

A.3. Local Literature.

 There are many things that people can do with recycled plastics. Based on the

findings of Velasco et al. (2021) on the preliminary assessment of solid waste, it was

determined that plastic constitutes the third largest proportion of waste by-products

generated by Philippine FAB LABs, accounting for 20.59% of the total even though it is

usually can be recycled. Plastics constitute a significant portion of 52.79% of the total

waste generated by FAB LABs. This is mostly attributed to their recyclable nature.

Plastic can be combined with other materials. A study conducted by Hirondo et

al. (2020) investigated the feasibility of utilizing a combination of plastics and abaca

fibers as composite board material within the construction sector. The researcher's

primary objective was to determine the optimal composition of the A/PCW composite,

with a specific emphasis on its physical and mechanical characteristics. Researchers

found that the formulation of 60:40 is the best formulation to create the composite

board. Thus, research study shows that recycled plastics can be used to create new

materials. It also reduces the plastic waste.

Moreover, plastic waste can be converted into sustainable products using green

technology. According to Lacsamana and Mirasol (2021), bubble wrap can be recycled

into yarn based on the experiment of environmental and sanitary engineering students

of the Technological Institute of the Philippines led by Vince Ilagan. The experimental

effort undertaken drew inspiration from Adidas, a renowned footwear business, and its

innovative process of converting polyethylene terephthalate (PET) bottles into thread for
manufacturing shoes. Thus, plastic waste can be used in textile applications to produce

different products such as bags, pillowcases, stuffed toys, and other textile products.

According to Masinag (2019), they made the decision to build a recycling facility

and began acquiring plastic waste from a local landfill. It was stated that people should

segregate their home waste carefully and recycle everything that can be recycled at

source in order to ensure that no more plastic waste will wind up in landfills. The

experiment was able to turn recycled plastics, such as PET bottles, into more building

materials, such as school chairs, bricks, fabrics, pavers, and planks made out of 85-90%

plastic waste. This showcases the creative ways that recycled plastics have been used in

Philippine construction. It presents studies of endeavors that effectively used plastic-

based building supplies.

A.4. Local Studies

One of the most important issues in the Philippines today is plastic waste. The

challenge posed by plastic waste actually affects business, culture, society, and

government (Dayrit, 2022). According to this previous study, the choice of polymer and

chemical additions can affect the qualities of plastics. There are many different kinds of

polymers, but only six of them can be clearly recycled. A special focus has been placed

on single-use plastics due to their prevalence and visibility, especially sachets and tiny

plastic bags. Identifying which plastics are produced in the largest amount and which

applications produce the most plastic waste will help to solve the issue associated with

plastic waste.
 Plastic waste is readily accessible and causes serious risks to both the

environment and public health (Crowley, 2020). The Philippines is one country in the

Asia-Pacific region that has struggled with the effects of using plastic bags directly as

well as the difficulties of passing and enforcing laws that prohibit these non-

biodegradable products. This study, conducted by Crowley (2020), examined the factors

that predict weekly plastic bag consumption in three towns in the north of the Philippines

that do not have official plastic bag bans. As a result, the researchers suggest that

further programs for learning and financial incentives are required at the local level to

decrease the use of plastic bags.

A.5. Synthesis and Relevance of the Data

The foreign and local literatures and studies provided correspond to the

numerous ways of utilizing plastic and waste material for recycling. With this, the

opportunity of creating materials such as fabrics, cloths, and textiles with recycled

supplies is achievable and much more beneficial to the health of the environment, and

may contribute to lessening of wastes from consumers itself. Furthermore, the data and

information gathered in the Related review of literature contributes to the study of

“Recycled Plastics as Sustainable Threads for Multi-functional Textile Applications”.

In the modern age, consumerism has become more rampant and prevalent as

the world’s population reaches eight-billion in 2023, and the use of plastics has become

less practiced because of people becoming aware of plastics affecting the environment,

and changes in global climate. Lastly, this study aims to confidently make people aware
of the consumption of plastics in the Philippines, and hopefully help turn people into

more consumer-friendly practices.

Chapter 3

A. Methodology

A.1. Method of research

Qualitative research is an approach that focuses on understanding people's

experiences and perceptions. In the context of "Exploring the Viability of Plastics as

Sustainable Threads for Multi-functional Textile Applications," qualitative methods

involve collecting and analyzing non-numerical data, like interviews and observations.

Researchers delve into the thoughts, opinions, and insights of individuals involved in the

textile industry to gain a deeper understanding of how plastics can be used in

sustainable textile applications. This approach helps uncover valuable qualitative

insights that quantitative data alone cannot provide, contributing to a comprehensive

view of the subject matter.

The research employs a quantitative research design to investigate the feasibility

and potential benefits of incorporating recycled plastics as a sustainable alternative in

textile production. This choice of research methodology was made after careful

consideration of the study's objectives and context. Given the urgency of sustainability

concerns in the textile industry and the need for empirical, quantifiable data, a

quantitative approach is best suited for this study.

 Quantitative research allows the researcher to systematically collect numerical

data through surveys, which can be analyzed using statistical methods. This method

ensures the generation of objective and measurable results, offering a precise

assessment of the viability of recycled plastics as textile threads. It enables us to

quantify the potential environmental and economic benefits, assess consumer

preferences, and make statistically supported comparisons with traditional textile

materials. By relying on quantitative data, we can provide empirical evidence that is

essential for addressing the resource-intensive and wasteful practices prevalent in the

fashion and textile business. This research approach also aligns with the broader goals

of sustainability, resource efficiency, and waste reduction, as it facilitates the rigorous

evaluation of the proposed solution. Furthermore, by exploring a relatively new area in

sustainable textile production, we aim to contribute to the current knowledge base and

provide valuable insights for industry.

A.2. Research Design

This Research employs a qualitative research design to investigate the feasibility

and potential benefits of utilizing recycled plastics as a sustainable alternative for textile

production. The research will be conducted through in-depth observations at the Ateneo

de Zamboanga University wherein the research focuses on exploring the viability of

using plastic bottles as multi-purpose threads, identifying the most effective types of

plastics for textile material, assessing their effectiveness, and understanding the

possibilities of recycling them repeatedly. The research addresses a critical aspect of

eco-friendly textile manufacturing by demonstrating the feasibility of repurposing

recycled plastics into sustainable threads for various textile applications.

The findings of this research offer valuable guidance to the textile industry,

encouraging the adoption of more sustainable practices and contributing to a more

environmentally responsible and sustainable future. The researchers aim to promote a

more sustainable and environmentally conscious approach, aligning with the principles

of resource efficiency and waste reduction. These findings emphasize the importance of

embracing eco-friendly innovations and taking meaningful steps toward a greener, more

sustainable textile industry, benefiting both the environment and future generations.

A.3. Research Locale

This study will be conducted in Zamboanga City, located at Zamboanga Del Sur

in the western region of the Philippine Island of Mindanao, with a total population of

997,234 people as of 2022. The subject of diversity is particularly relevant to

Zamboanga City because of its diversified population, thriving economy, and natural

surroundings. The findings of the research can help identify the kind of plastic that is

effective for being used as a material to recycle over and over again, while at the same

time helping local government officials and citizens take proactive actions to lessen their

use of plastic and manage their plastic trash more sustainably, which will contribute to

an improved quality of life in Zamboanga City.

A.4. Data Analysis

 In this research, the data will be gathered through in-depth observations to gain

insights into the use of recycled plastics in sustainable textile applications. Content

analysis will be employed to identify key information related to the research questions,

such as environmental impacts. This qualitative data analysis approach aims to provide

a comprehensive understanding of the viability of recycled plastics as sustainable

threads for multi-functional textiles, and how recycled plastics are being used in

sustainable textile applications.

A.5. Feasibility Model

The textile industry is one of global importance, providing high levels of employment,

foreign exchange revenue, and products essential to human welfare. However, the

industry is also responsible for significant environmental impacts, including water

pollution, greenhouse gas emissions, and waste generation (United Nations

Environment Programme, 2021). Sustainable textile production aims to reduce the

environmental impact of textile manufacturing. The industry is developing innovative

fibers, processes, methods, and technologies for sustainable textiles. Recycled plastics

are being used as synthetic fiber raw materials by many textile companies to reduce

their costs and support nature and a sustainable economy. Recycling plastic waste into

textile products is advantageous compared to incineration and landfilling methods. It

also has positive effects on the circular economy and the environment.
 Chapter 4

A. Results and Discussion

A.1. Statement of the Problem I:

How does recycled plastics become useful in our environment?

Recycled plastics become useful in our environment by reducing waste,

conserving resources, and minimizing the negative impact of plastic pollution. If plastics

are recycled properly, they can be transformed into new products which can help in

conserving energy and raw materials. It helps cut down and lessen the harm in the

ecosystems and wildlife. Promoting environmental sustainability and reducing the

harmful impacts of plastic waste on the surroundings depend heavily on recycled

plastics. Recycling plastic is converting trash or used plastic into something valuable.

Recycling plastic for use in daily life helps spread awareness of environmental problems

including plastic waste in landfills and the ocean.

A.2. Statement of the Problem II:

 What is the feasibility of utilizing recycled plastics as threads in various textile

applications, such as clothing, accessories, and functional textiles?

Recycling plastic waste into textile products is an emerging trend that has the

potential to reduce plastic pollution and support a sustainable economy. Recycled

plastics can be used as synthetic fiber raw materials in various products such as

sportswear, casual wear, shoes, cosmetics packaging, personal care products

packaging, toys, kitchenware, car interior parts, etc. Although the feasibility of utilizing

recycled plastics as threads depends on the type of plastic and the intended use of the

thread, it is possible to recycle plastic waste into fibers that can be used for versatile

applications. In addition, a group of recyclers in the Philippines called “The Plastic

Flamingo” are turning plastic wastes into building materials, which enhances the

usefulness and versatility of recycled plastics when turned into threads or building

materials (Portugal, 2021). Furthermore, the adoption of recycled plastics threads in

textiles not only provides an opportunity to enhance sustainability efforts but also aligns

with the industry’s ongoing commitment towards responsible and environmentally

conscious practices. By utilizing recycled plastics, the textile industry can significantly

contribute to the conservation of valuable resources and mitigating the detrimental

impacts of waste accumulation.

A.3. Statement of the Problem III.

What are the environmental benefits and drawbacks associated with using

recycled plastics in textile production compared to traditional materials?

 The recycled plastics that are going to be utilized for the textile production will

have environmental benefits such as reducing landfill wastes and ocean pollution,

conservation of natural resources such as water, timber, and minerals, reduce usage of

fossil fuels, conservation of natural resources and energy, and further improvement of

ecosystem and wildlife habitats. Whilst, listing the environmental benefits, it is also

important to note the environmental drawbacks of using plastic in textile productions,

this includes hazardous chemicals and ingredients that are utilized in processing the

plastics in to reusable form, increase of greenhouse gasses production due to

processing of plastics, and higher costs of infrastructure to facilitate for recycling.

Chapter 5

A. Conclusions

This research study entitled "Exploring the Viability of Plastics as Sustainable Threads for

Multi-functional Textile Applications" has revealed a significant and timely aspect of eco-friendly

textile manufacturing by showcasing the feasibility of using recycled plastics to produce

sustainable threads for various textile purposes. The comprehensive investigation, which

included material testing, life cycle assessments, and cost-effectiveness analyses,

demonstrated the potential of recycled plastics in contributing to a more sustainable textile

industry. By highlighting the feasibility of integrating recycled plastics into textile production, the

findings of this study can provide valuable guidance to the industry in adopting more sustainable

practices and contribute to the overarching objective of building a more environmentally

responsible and sustainable future. This research aimed to show how recycled plastics can

transform the textile industry, promoting a more sustainable and environmentally conscious

approach, thus aligning with the principles of using resources efficiently and reducing waste.
These findings underscore the importance of embracing eco-friendly innovations and taking

steps towards a greener, more sustainable textile industry for the benefit of our planet and

future generations.

Chapter 6

A. Recommendations
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