The textile and apparel sector is a significant contributor to global CO2 emissions, accounting for over 2 billion tonnes annually, or about 4% of total emissions. In India, a major player in the global textile industry, addressing the carbon footprint of this sector is crucial for sustainable development. From cotton cultivation to textile waste, decarbonization efforts must span the entire value chain.

 

Current Scenario 

• Cotton Cultivation: India is one of the largest cotton producers, and cotton cultivation alone is responsible for about 220 million tonnes of CO2 annually. Traditional cotton farming is resource-intensive, requiring significant amounts of water and pesticides, contributing to greenhouse gas emissions.
• Polyester Production: Polyester, widely used in textiles, emits about three times as much CO2 as cotton. India's polyester production is significant, contributing substantially to the sector's carbon footprint.
• Textile Waste: India generates vast amounts of textile waste. The country purchases a significant portion of the 100 billion units of apparel and 15 billion pairs of shoes produced globally each year. Much of this waste ends up in landfills, emitting greenhouse gases as it decomposes.

Challenges

• Resource-Intensive Production: The textile sector relies heavily on water, energy, and chemicals, leading to high emissions.
• Fast Fashion Culture: Rapid consumption and disposal of apparel contribute to increased waste and emissions.
• Recycling Infrastructure: Limited infrastructure for textile recycling hampers efforts to reduce waste.

Key Technology

Sustainable Cotton Cultivation

• Organic Cotton Farming reduces the use of synthetic pesticides and fertilizers, lowering emissions by up to 46% compared to conventional methods.
• Replacing cotton with hemp, a less resource-intensive crop, significantly reduces water and pesticide use. Hemp farming emits about half the CO2 of cotton cultivation.

Energy-Efficient Production Methods

• Using renewable energy sources for textile manufacturing further reduces the sector's carbon footprint.
• Implementing low-water and low-energy dyeing techniques reduces the environmental impact of textile processing. Technologies like digital printing can save up to 50% of water and energy compared to traditional methods.

Textile Waste Management

• Developing robust textile recycling infrastructure diverts waste from landfills and reduces emissions. Recycling saves up to 80% of the energy used in producing new textiles.
• Promoting circular fashion models, including clothing rentals, sharing, and resale, extends the lifecycle of apparel and reduces waste. Brands like Rentomojo and Flyrobe are pioneering rental services in India.

Modular and Sustainable Apparel Design

• Designing modular clothing that be easily disassembled and recycled can reduce waste. This approach also supports the use of sustainable materials and components.
• Developing alternatives to animal leather, such as plant-based leather, can lower emissions and reduce the environmental impact of leather production. 

Digital Tools and Virtualization

• Using digital tools to design and visualize fashion eliminates waste and reduces the need for physical samples. Virtual fashion shows and digital fittings can decrease the carbon footprint of the fashion industry.
• Implementing software that assists in designing recyclable garments can enhance sustainability. This technology can optimize material use and support end-of-life recycling.

Consumer Awareness and Behavior Change

• Running awareness campaigns to promote sustainable fashion choices encourages consumers to buy less and choose eco-friendly options.
• Encouraging repair and alteration services can extend the life of clothing, reducing the need for new purchases. 

Case Studies 

• Fabindia's Organic Cotton Initiative: Fabindia has introduced a range of products made from organic cotton, promoting sustainable farming practices and reducing the carbon footprint of their textiles. This initiative has helped lower emissions and supported the livelihoods of organic farmers.
• Rentomojo's Clothing Rentals: Rentomojo offers clothing rental services, reducing the need for new apparel purchases and minimizing textile waste. This model supports a circular economy and promotes sustainable consumption.
• Phool's Plant-Based Leather: Phool, a social enterprise, is developing plant-based leather from floral waste, providing a sustainable alternative to animal leather. This innovation reduces emissions and supports waste management.