Nylon does not biodegrade easily in natural environments, and the decomposition time can range from decades to potentially hundreds of years. The exact timeframe for nylon to break down depends on various factors, including environmental conditions, exposure to sunlight, temperature, and the specific type of nylon. So, the fashion and textile industries are exploring sustainable practices, such as the use of recycled nylon or the development of biodegradable alternatives.

Several natural fibers are 100% biodegradable, meaning they can decompose naturally in the environment without causing long-term harm. Here are some examples of fabrics known for their biodegradability cotton, linen, hemp, silk, wool, bamboo, and Tencel.