Alternatives to the crude down-cycling process exist. Gwen describes two types of technologies that allow us to reach high-quality (virgin or near-virgin) fibers: mechanical recycling and chemical recycling. While watching this video, ask yourself whether chemical recycling is an example of the technical cycle or the biological cycle of the Butterfly Diagram. 

MAIN TAKEAWAYS

• Mechanical recycling is a physical process of shredding textiles and turning them into new yarns (for instance through carding, combing and spinning). There can be some loss of quality, as shredding may damage the length of the fibers. 
• Chemical recycling entails breaking the fiber down to its basic chemical components, removing the impurities and bringing the fiber back to virgin quality.