Greenhouse gas emissions from the fashion industry have increased by nearly 14% in the last two years. According to the report from the Apparel Impact Institute, this is mainly due to the rise in production of fibres such as polyester.
Greenhouse gas emissions from the fashion industry rose in 2023 and 2024, reaching approximately 1 gigaton in 2024, a figure similar to the total carbon footprint of Japan. This increase is partly due to the rise in global fibre production, especially polyester, which is cheaper than recycled materials.
In 2024, emissions from the textile sector grew by 6.3%, following a 7.5% increase in 2023. Kurt Kipka, impact director of the Apparel Impact Institute, warned that “this trend is quite concerning” and represents a significant challenge for the decarbonisation of the industry.
The war in Iran has driven up energy prices, highlighting the need for manufacturers to seek alternatives to oil and gas. Additionally, a study from the institute forecasts a 34% drop in sector profits by 2030 if immediate action is not taken to control carbon pollution.
Despite these challenges, the number of fashion companies committed to climate goals has grown from around 100 to over 700 in just two years. However, inflationary pressures have led some brands, such as Burberry, to postpone their sustainability commitments.
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