Which pair of trousers has the lowest carbon footprint? This depends on the material, weight and energy required to look after them. One would expect trousers made from ‘natural’ material such as cotton would have a lower footprint. Is this true?

Synthetic fibres versus natural fibres

Surprisingly, trousers made from synthetic trousers are better than trousers made from natural material. Synthetic fibres are polyester and acrylic and natural trousers are made from cotton. Trousers made from synthetic fibres last much longer than cotton trousers and can endure more wear and tear. Also, because they are half as light compared to cotton trousers, the production phase and the use phase of synthetic have lower carbon emissions. Synthetic trousers are easier to wash because they drip-dry and there is little need to tumble dry them. Research estimates for all these reasons, synthetic trousers are six to seven times less carbon intensive than cotton trousers.

Other ways to reduce your trousers’ impact

Other ways to reduce the carbon footprint of your trousers which are easy to wash and dry and are durable. Also consider buying second-hand, repairing it, donating it and recycling the trousers.