被骂惨的“穷鬼救星”聚酯纤维，到底在替谁背黑锅？

Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the rise and fall of polyester fiber in the clothing industry, highlighting its initial popularity as a cost-effective and functional material for workers, while also addressing the growing backlash against it due to issues like static electricity and misleading marketing practices [3][18][28]. Industry Overview - The global polyester fiber market reached a sales figure of $60.32 billion in 2024, with China's polyester industry expected to approach a production capacity of 90 million tons [5][18]. - Polyester fiber accounts for 59% of the global fiber market, with production reaching a record 132 million tons in 2024, reflecting a significant increase since the Paris Climate Agreement in 2015 [18][20]. Material Characteristics - Polyester fiber is known for its excellent warmth retention, being 1.5 times warmer than cotton of the same weight, and is particularly favored for its durability and ease of care [9][10]. - The cost of polyester raw materials is approximately 8,500 yuan per ton, significantly lower than cotton, making it an affordable option for consumers [12]. Consumer Perception - Despite its advantages, polyester fiber has been labeled as "cheap" and "low-quality," leading to a negative perception among consumers, particularly due to issues like static electricity and poor moisture absorption [20][22]. - Misleading marketing practices, such as labeling polyester products as high-end materials, have eroded consumer trust and contributed to the negative image of polyester [23][25]. Environmental Considerations - The article discusses the potential for recycled polyester (RPET) made from plastic bottles, although the process is complex and not widely adopted due to cost considerations [16][28]. - There are misconceptions about polyester releasing microplastics, but properly made polyester garments are durable and unlikely to shed microplastics under normal use [26]. Market Dynamics - The article emphasizes that the backlash against polyester should not be directed at the material itself but rather at the deceptive practices of some brands that misrepresent their products [34][36]. - The differentiation between high-quality polyester and low-quality alternatives is crucial, as the latter has contributed to the negative perception of the material as a whole [34].