The line graph compares various textile fibres in terms of their international demand from 1980 to 2015, with the figures presented in million tonnes.
Overall, the global demand for every textile fiber generally increased, albeit at different rates. The polyester became the most high-demand fibre by the end of the period, while the demand for cellulosic and wool remained relatively low.
In detail, 10 million tonnes of cotton were required globally in 1980, followed by a steady increase to its peak of around 28 million tonnes in 2005. The figure then fluctuated before ending at roughly 27 million tonnes. Meanwhile, the global demand for polyester stood at approximately 5 million tonnes in 1980; however, the figure experienced the most significant growth thereafter, reaching almost 50 million tonnes, overtaking cotton demand and becoming the dominant fiber by 2015.
In contrast, nearly 5 million tonnes of cellulosic fiber were demanded globally in 1980. The figure remained stable until 2000, after which the global cellulosic requirement rose slightly to nearly 8 million tonnes. Similarly, the wool demand started at around 3 million tonnes initially and stayed unchanged by 2000. Subsequently, the figure rose marginally before ending at approximately 4 million tonnes, remaining the least common fiber.