There is a tension within the cyanotype works regarding the use of chemicals within a natural environment. Although I have tried to minimise the amount of runoff as much as I can, a small amount of cross-contamination is inevitable, so I have begun to research into less toxic alternatives. I came across anthotypes - a process almost identical to that of cyanotype, but using photosensitive pigments extracted from plant matter rather than chemicals. My research so far suggests that the anthotype process is a much longer one - with the exposure and development time taking days or even weeks rather than minutes and hours. This presents the opportunity to introduce more of a focus on the temporal qualities of the making.
Attached is an article from a textiles student at the University of Derby who researched the differences between cyanotype and anthotype processes for use on fabric.