Silk, a natural fiber with profound historical and cultural significance, is a major product of India, one of the world’s leading silk-producing countries. While sericulture makes a substantial contribution to livelihoods and the economy, conventional production methods pose environmental challenges due to their heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Transitioning to organic sericulture, integrating precision agriculture, and adopting sustainable practices can minimize these impacts while addressing social and labor concerns. Advances in biotechnology, including the genetic improvement of mulberry varieties, further enhance productivity and sustainability. Utilizing compost made from leftover mulberry leaves and silkworm litter enhances soil fertility and water retention, promoting eco-friendly cultivation. Water conservation measures and humane practices, such as peace silk production, enable the production of high-quality silk without harming silkworms or relying on harmful chemicals. Certification and labeling ensure transparency, promote ethical practices, and help consumers make informed choices. This chapter highlights the potential of sustainable and ethical sericulture to reduce environmental footprints, including water consumption, carbon emissions, and chemical pollution. By combining technological innovation, fair labor practices, and environmentally conscious methods, the silk industry can produce high-quality, responsible products while maintaining ecological balance and social accountability. The chapter outlines these integrated approaches, demonstrating how sustainable, ethical, and innovative practices can ensure the long-term viability of sericulture while mitigating environmental and social risks.

错误:搜索内容不能为空,请输入英文关键词
错误:关键词超出字数限制,请精简
高级检索

Beyond the Loom: A Sustainable Prospect for Silk Manufacturing

  • Veena S. More,
  • R. Srinivasan,
  • P. Darshan,
  • Aishwarya Lomte,
  • R. Janavi,
  • B. Kiran Kumar

摘要

Silk, a natural fiber with profound historical and cultural significance, is a major product of India, one of the world’s leading silk-producing countries. While sericulture makes a substantial contribution to livelihoods and the economy, conventional production methods pose environmental challenges due to their heavy reliance on chemical fertilizers and pesticides. Transitioning to organic sericulture, integrating precision agriculture, and adopting sustainable practices can minimize these impacts while addressing social and labor concerns. Advances in biotechnology, including the genetic improvement of mulberry varieties, further enhance productivity and sustainability. Utilizing compost made from leftover mulberry leaves and silkworm litter enhances soil fertility and water retention, promoting eco-friendly cultivation. Water conservation measures and humane practices, such as peace silk production, enable the production of high-quality silk without harming silkworms or relying on harmful chemicals. Certification and labeling ensure transparency, promote ethical practices, and help consumers make informed choices. This chapter highlights the potential of sustainable and ethical sericulture to reduce environmental footprints, including water consumption, carbon emissions, and chemical pollution. By combining technological innovation, fair labor practices, and environmentally conscious methods, the silk industry can produce high-quality, responsible products while maintaining ecological balance and social accountability. The chapter outlines these integrated approaches, demonstrating how sustainable, ethical, and innovative practices can ensure the long-term viability of sericulture while mitigating environmental and social risks.