Indian textile heritage
Jute
West Bengal, Bihar and Assam
Impact score
85/ 100
Better Choice
A blended indicator of water, carbon, chemical load, durability and recyclability.
Measured impact per kg of fibre
Water footprint1,800 L / kg
Carbon footprint1.2 kg CO₂e / kg
Process energy12 MJ / kg
Microfibre sheddingNo shedding
BiodegradableYes
Durability10 years typical wear
Recyclability70 / 100
Data confidence
mediumMedium confidence — published ranges vary by region and process
Sources: National Jute Board 2022 · FAO 2021
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 useLow
Carbon footprintLow
Chemical loadLow
DurabilityHigh
RecyclabilityGood when unblended
What is it
The "golden fibre", a coarse bast fibre mainly used for bags, mats and packaging.
Why it matters
Rain-fed, carbon-absorbing and fully biodegradable, though too coarse for most apparel.
Water Carbon Chemicals End of life
What you can do
Use jute for bags and home textiles instead of laminated synthetics.