SUSTAINABLE NATURAL DYEING FOR TEXTILE APPLICATIONS: CURRENT TRENDS AND FUTURE PERSPECTIVES

The textile industry is among the largest contributors to environmental pollution due to the extensive use of synthetic dyes, hazardous chemicals, and excessive water consumption during wet processing operations. The increasing awareness of environmental sustainability, stricter environmental regulations, and growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products have renewed interest in natural dyes as sustainable alternatives to synthetic colourants. Natural dyes, obtained from renewable resources such as plants, insects, microorganisms, and minerals, are biodegradable, non-toxic, and environmentally compatible. Besides providing attractive colours, many natural dyes possess functional properties including antimicrobial, antioxidant, ultraviolet (UV) protective, antiinflammatory, and deodorizing activities, making them suitable for multifunctional textile applications. Recent developments in green extraction technologies, bio-mordants, nanotechnology, enzyme-assisted processing, and microencapsulation have significantly improved the dyeing performance and commercial potential of natural dyes. Nevertheless, several challenges such as poor colour reproducibility, comparatively lower colour fastness, seasonal availability of raw materials, lack of standardized dyeing protocols, and higher production costs continue to limit their industrial-scale adoption. This review critically discusses the sources and classification of natural dyes, extraction technologies, mordanting techniques, textile applications, sustainability benefits, current technological advancements, existing limitations, and future research opportunities. Furthermore, the role of natural dyes in promoting circular economy principles and sustainable textile manufacturing is highlighted. The review concludes that continuous innovation in green chemistry, biotechnology, and process optimization will play a crucial role in enhancing the commercial viability of natural dyes and supporting environmentally responsible textile production.