What is the main risk associated with natural fiber ropes regarding age?

Natural fiber ropes, such as those made from manila or sisal, are susceptible to deterioration over time primarily due to their organic composition. As these ropes age, they can lose their structural integrity because they are prone to weakening from environmental factors like moisture and mildew. Mildew can grow on the fibers, breaking them down and making them less capable of bearing loads. This weakening is a significant concern for safety in firefighting and rescue operations, where the reliability and strength of rope are critical. Unlike synthetic ropes, which may have a longer lifespan and resistance to some environmental factors, natural fibers do not offer the same level of durability as they age.