Fabric
Acetate
Wood pulp processed with acetic anhydride
Impact score
42/ 100
High Impact
A blended indicator of water, carbon, chemical load, durability and recyclability.
Measured impact per kg of fibre
Water footprint1,900 L / kg
Carbon footprint5.3 kg CO₂e / kg
Process energy82 MJ / kg
Microfibre sheddingNo shedding
BiodegradableYes
Durability2 years typical wear
Recyclability25 / 100
Data confidence
lowLow confidence — limited published data, treat as indicative
Sources: Higg MSI 2023
Figures are cradle-to-gate averages per kilogram of fibre or fabric, not measurements of your specific garment. A typical adult shirt weighs roughly 0.2 kg.
Qualitative ratings
Water useModerate
Carbon footprintModerate
Chemical loadHigh
DurabilityLow
RecyclabilityPoor once blended
What is it
A cellulose ester used for linings and occasion wear.
Why it matters
Silk-like but weak, sensitive to heat, and produced with strong acids.
Water Carbon Chemicals End of life
What you can do
Reserve for occasion wear; dry-clean sparingly and store flat.