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The textile and garment industry is a major contributor to global carbon emissions, accounting for an estimated 6%-8% of the total—approximately 1.7 billion tons of CO₂ annually. A comprehensive report by the International Labour Organization (ILO) delves into the complexities of these emissions, offering a detailed analysis of their distribution across the supply chain and highlighting areas for effective mitigation. Given the scale and intricacy of the industry, reducing emissions requires a holistic approach that considers production processes, material choices, energy sources, global supply chain logistics, and even the environmental impact of garments during consumer use.
Emission Hotspots Across the Garment Lifecycle: From Production to Consumer Use
One of the primary areas of concern is the distribution of emissions across different stages of production. The report highlights that the most significant emissions occur during yarn and fabric production, where raw materials undergo extensive processing. The dyeing and finishing stages are particularly energy-intensive—requiring large amounts of heat and steam. Many textile-producing regions still rely on coal and natural gas for energy, making these processes even more carbon-intensive. In addition to carbon emissions, these stages also contribute to other environmental challenges, such as high water consumption and chemical waste (which further complicate sustainability efforts).
Accurately measuring emissions is another challenge addressed in the ILO report. Two primary methodologies are widely used: Life cycle assessment (LCA) and carbon accounting based on the greenhouse gas protocol. LCA evaluates the environmental impact of a product from raw material extraction to its final disposal. In the garment industry, this approach helps identify critical points in the supply chain where emissions are highest, allowing companies to develop targeted reduction strategies. The greenhouse gas protocol, on the other hand, provides a structured framework for categorizing emissions into three scopes: direct emissions from owned or controlled sources (Scope 1), indirect emissions from purchased electricity (Scope 2), and broader indirect emissions from the entire supply chain (Scope 3). Applying these methodologies enables companies to track their carbon footprint more effectively and implement strategic changes to reduce their overall impact.
| Comparison of the distribution of emissions in the garment sector value chain between two key studies Source: International Labour Organization |
Several key variables influence the carbon intensity of garment production. The type of fabric used plays a significant role, as different materials have vastly different environmental footprints. Synthetic fibers like polyester (which are derived from fossil fuels) tend to have higher carbon emissions during production compared to natural fibers like cotton. However, cotton cultivation presents its own challenges, including high water usage and pesticide application. The choice of manufacturing location also affects emissions, as energy sources vary by region. Countries that rely on renewable energy sources generally have lower associated emissions than those using coal or other fossil fuels. Additionally, logistics and transportation contribute to the industry’s carbon footprint, with emissions varying depending on whether goods are transported by sea, air, or land.
Beyond the production and distribution phases, the report also highlights an often-overlooked aspect of the garment industry’s carbon footprint: energy consumption during the use phase. Studies have shown that a significant portion of a garment's lifetime emissions comes from consumer practices, particularly washing, drying, and ironing. Energy-intensive washing cycles, hot water usage, and tumble drying contribute considerably to carbon emissions, especially in regions where electricity is still generated from fossil fuels. Synthetic garments exacerbate environmental concerns by shedding microplastics during each wash, polluting water systems. Shifting consumer habits—such as using cold water washes, air-drying clothes, and reducing unnecessary laundering—can significantly cut energy consumption. Many sustainable fashion brands are now incorporating care labels that encourage lower impact washing practices to help mitigate this issue.
Innovation, Regulation, and Collaboration: Pathways to a Low-Carbon Garment Industry
Technological advancements are playing a growing role in reducing the carbon footprint of the garment industry. New developments in low-impact dyeing techniques, waterless textile processing, and energy-efficient machinery are helping manufacturers curb emissions. Digital printing and automation are also reducing waste and optimizing resource usage. Furthermore, fabric innovations—such as bio-based and recycled materials—are gradually gaining traction, offering alternatives to traditional carbon-intensive textiles. The adoption of artificial intelligence in supply chain management is another promising trend as predictive analytics can optimize production planning and minimize excess inventory, further lowering emissions.
In addition to technological innovations, government policies and industry regulations are increasingly shaping sustainability efforts in the textile sector. Many countries are implementing stricter environmental standards for manufacturers, requiring better energy efficiency and waste management practices. Carbon taxes, emissions reporting requirements, and extended producer responsibility regulations are pushing companies to rethink their supply chain strategies. International agreements, such as the European Union’s Green Deal and the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goals, also influence corporate sustainability commitments—compelling businesses to align their operations with global environmental targets.
Addressing emissions in the garment sector requires a multi-faceted approach that considers industry collaboration. No single entity—whether a brand, manufacturer, or regulatory body—can drive change alone. The ILO report underscores the importance of partnerships between governments, businesses, and environmental organizations to establish industry-wide sustainability standards. Many fashion brands are now engaging with their suppliers to implement greener manufacturing processes, while sustainability certifications (e.g., the Global Organic Textile Standard or OEKO-TEX) are becoming more influential in guiding responsible production. Consumers also play a crucial role as shifting demand toward ethical and sustainable fashion places pressure on brands to adopt eco-friendly practices.
| Fashion’s Carbon Footprint Source: Apparel Resources |
Keypoint Intelligence Opinion
The complexity of the textile and garment sector makes it challenging to implement uniform solutions, but understanding its many interconnected components is the first step toward meaningful progress. The ILO report provides valuable insights into where emissions are concentrated and how they can be measured—offering a foundation for more effective sustainability initiatives. As the industry continues to evolve, efforts to reduce carbon emissions must be tailored to address the specific characteristics of different production methods, supply chains, and consumer behaviors. Moving production closer to the consumer using digital technology is one example of changing the go to market strategy to address Sustainability concerns. By integrating technological advancements, regulatory frameworks, and collaborative efforts, the garment sector can move toward a more sustainable future while balancing economic growth and environmental responsibility.
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