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.

Research by Professor Bernes-Lee shows the difference in carbon emissions of trousers in material before they have been worn. This includes the cutting dyeing, sewing, fabric waste, transporting, buckles and zips:

8 kg CO₂e          Polyester trousers (300g)

11 kg CO₂e        Acrylic trousers (300g)

19 kg CO₂e       Cotton trousers (600g)

Cotton trousers come out far higher than in terms of carbon emissions and produce more than twice the amount compared to polyester trousers.

Another factor to consider is whether the trousers are made from fast fashion or not. Fast fashion trousers have a higher carbon footprint because they do not last long. Trousers that are made to last are better as they will be used for a long time, so it is better to buy from brands that focus on durability.

Other ways to reduce your trousers’ impact

There are other ways to reduce the carbon footprint of your trousers which are easy to wash and dry and are durable. Consider buying second-hand, from vintage shops, charity or online shops that specialise in second-hand clothes, such as Vinted. Repairing trousers is another way to extends its life and reduce its carbon footprint. If you do not know how to repair clothes, you should investigate whether there us a Repair café nearby. Repair cafes are run by volunteers who repair items for free. They are springing up everywhere across the globe and it is quite likely there is one near you. You can avoid throwing away your trousers by donating them to charity or send them to a recycling centre for clothes. This stops them from ending up on landfill and polluting the environment.