Fabric
Cotton
Grown across Gujarat, Maharashtra, Telangana and Punjab
Impact score
57/ 100
Moderate
A blended indicator of water, carbon, chemical load, durability and recyclability.
Measured impact per kg of fibre
Water footprint10,000 L / kg
Carbon footprint5.9 kg CO₂e / kg
Process energy55 MJ / kg
Microfibre sheddingNo shedding
BiodegradableYes
Durability5 years typical wear
Recyclability70 / 100
Data confidence
highHigh confidence — multiple peer-reviewed or industry datasets agree
Sources: Water Footprint Network 2020 · Textile Exchange MCI 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 useHigh
Carbon footprintModerate
Chemical loadHigh
DurabilityGood with care
RecyclabilityGood when unblended
What is it
A natural cellulose fibre spun from the cotton boll; India is the world's largest producer.
Why it matters
Conventional cotton is thirsty and pesticide-heavy, but it breathes well in Indian heat and biodegrades.
Water Carbon Chemicals End of life
What you can do
Buy fewer, better pieces, wash at 30C and air-dry. Choose BCI or organic where available.