An overview of the environmental progress of the textile industry considers production processes, human ecology, and product disposal. A vast amount of legislation and many regulations define the acceptable amounts of polluting substances that can be introduced into the water and air during the production of fabrics and apparel. Meeting government mandated pollution standards has been especially difficult for the finishing sector, but the number of harmful and polluting substances utilized during fabric and apparel production has been decreased dramatically. Recent international trade agreements, such as GATT, increase the need for international environmental standards for fabric and apparel production. Human ecology considers the potentially harmful effects to consumers of the residual chemicals contained in apparel or home furnishings fabrics during use. Recent research focuses on reducing the content of formaldehyde, pesticides, preservatives, heavy metals, and other potentially harmful chemicals. Some international organizations, such as Oeko-Tex, are offering tests to certify that fabric products are toxin-free. The production of toxin-free fabrics and the elimination of environmentally harmful chemicals would also significantly reduce the polluting potential of fabrics and apparel after disposal.