This revolutionary new web-based calculator takes into account the entire production route from fibre selection through to fabric production to dyeing and finishing. It also compares the production impacts of different washing and drying methods over the lifetime of a garment by consumers.

Using cleverly derived Environmental Damage Units (EDU’s) the impact of different fibres, fabric weights and dyeing and finishing methods can be compared in terms of water impact, energy use, use of non-renewable resources and pollution.

A simple colour coded report is produced that enables users to see at a glance where a particular product has most impact and highlights the areas that require attention or, conversely, where products and methods are good. The easy-to-read colour coded grid conceals the complex mathematics involved but an overall indicative EDU score enables easy comparisons between different textiles to be made.

Textile eco-metrics also provides simple, easy to understand explanations of what is good or bad about a particular fibre, fabric or process so it can be used to increase the levels of understanding about what is fact and what is ‘greenwash’ in the world of textiles and clothing.

Of particular interest to those committed to a sustainable textile industry are the Sub-Optimal Durability Units (SODU’s) that are calculated to show just how bad low durability clothing merchandise is for the environment. For example a product that has a production impact of 10 EDU’s and lasts for 50 domestic washes is far better than a similar garment that an impact of five production EDU’s but only lasts five washes – the latter garment would need to replaced nine times in the same lifetime so a penalty of 45 EDU’s would be awarded.

Textile Eco-metrics will be developed on an on-going basis and is available for an annual subscription.

To see how to use Eco-Metrics CLICK HERE.

CLICK HERE for more information on how to subscribe.