This is how it all started. Disperse dyes and plastic. The last word from the previous sentence triggered an epiphany: This world is plastic.
This is how it all started…
It took an exasperating personal experience to inspire me to create this blog. For many years, an uncomfortable enigma plagued me. I had been experiencing allergic reactions, some of which were quite severe, with no clue as to what culprit invoked the onsets. Almost two years ago, a patch test finally revealed the causes of my affliction: A dispersed dye.
Disperse Dyes?
These dyes are prevalent in fabrics and textiles fabricated from synthetic materials. The harmful chemical dyes are also on flooring, walls, furniture, and clothing. This new reality hit me like a ton of bricks. Effectively, I experienced a kaleidoscope of emotions, scaling from helplessness to resentment upon discovering the scarcity of research and the availability of natural products.
My Epiphany!
The guidance from the T.R.U.E Test states that clothing should be made of cotton, silk, wool, and linen to mitigate allergic reactions. It also advises against 100% polyester and acetate, a form of plastic. That last word from the previous sentence triggered this epiphany: This world is plastic. This embryotic stage was frustrating; look around. We are as reliant on plastic as we are on fossil fuels.
Follow The Cause
As I navigated challenging times, I accumulated a wealth of experience and knowledge that would benefit those seeking guidance. This new awareness about plastic inspires me to advocate and enhance decision-making. Dyes with harsh chemicals and plastics alone are afflicting us and our environment. I aim to share my experiences and research to inform others and influence green decision-making. Recycling plastic isn’t enough; we must do more.
Through My Journey
Follow me through my journey of learning to live in a world made of plastic. My trajectory in life has directed me to live a more sustainable life. I did recycle consistently and tried to reduce my carbon footprint before my life changed. In the early stages of my diagnosis, I recall being confused and angry that my basic freedom was taken from me. However, researching to understand my allergies opened my eyes to how harm surrounds us in the most basic ways. I no longer believe my freedom was taken from me, I was the one being freed.
Nancy Carrillo
Cleaner Living Advocate & Researcher