Indian textile heritage
Khadi
Hand-spun and handwoven across India
Impact score
82/ 100
Better Choice
A blended indicator of water, carbon, chemical load, durability and recyclability.
Measured impact per kg of fibre
Water footprint4,200 L / kg
Carbon footprint1.4 kg CO₂e / kg
Process energy9 MJ / kg
Microfibre sheddingNo shedding
BiodegradableYes
Durability8 years typical wear
Recyclability72 / 100
Data confidence
mediumMedium confidence — published ranges vary by region and process
Sources: KVIC 2022 · Textile Exchange 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 footprintLow
Chemical loadLow
DurabilityHigh
RecyclabilityGood when unblended
What is it
Cotton (or silk/wool) hand-spun on a charkha and handwoven, with near-zero process energy.
Why it matters
No mill power in spinning or weaving, so its carbon and energy footprint is the lowest of any cotton cloth.
Water Carbon Chemicals End of life
What you can do
Buy from KVIC-certified weavers; hand-wash and it will soften for years.