All carbon footprints

What’s the carbon footprint of a t-shirt?

The average t-shirt emits
4.50-8.50 kg CO₂e

Available to measure with Arbor’s platform
The carbon footprint of an average T-shirt ranges from approximately 4.50 to 8.50 kg CO₂e, highlighting the environmental impact of clothing production and the importance of measuring and reducing product-level emissions.
Why do product carbon footprints (PCFs) matter?
Carbon Equivalent Calculator

What is a t-shirt's carbon footprint equivalent to?

Using Arbor’s Carbon Equivalent Calculator, let’s see what the average a t-shirt’s carbon emissions are equivalent to, assuming an average of 6.50 kg CO2e.

How can you reduce a t-shirt's carbon footprint?

Here are 3 ways you can lower the carbon or decarbonize your a t-shirt’s carbon footprint.

Sustainable Fabrics

Prioritize sourcing sustainable, low-impact raw materials like organic or recycled fabrics.

Sustainable Fabrics

Choose eco-friendly dyes to reduce chemical processing impacts.

Material Efficiency

Switch to locally sourced raw materials to cut transportation emissions.

Arbor's platform

Want to measure the carbon footprint of your t-shirt?

We make product-level carbon accounting simple, reliable, and tailored to clothing.

T-shirt
Manage
T-shirt
Carbon footprint
6.50 kg CO₂e
Versions & Prototypes
Versions
Carbon footprint
T-shirt
Active
6.50 kg CO₂e
T-shirt 2024
6.50 kg CO₂e
T-shirt 2023
6.50 kg CO₂e
Prototypes
Carbon footprint
T-shirt - 20% Recycled
6.50 kg CO₂e

FAQs

What is the carbon footprint of a t-shirt?

The carbon footprint of a typical t-shirt is around 6.50 kg CO2e. This accounts for production, transportation, and materials used. The range can be from 4.50 to 8.50 kg CO2e, depending on factors like fabric type and manufacturing processes.

How much CO₂ does a t-shirt emit?

A typical t-shirt emits around 4.5 to 8.5 kg CO2e during its lifecycle. On average, manufacturing and transportation contribute most to its carbon footprint. Choosing sustainably produced shirts can significantly reduce this impact.

What are the main sources of emissions from a t-shirt?

The main sources of emissions from a t-shirt include cotton cultivation, which accounts for a significant portion, and the energy used in manufacturing and transportation. Producing a typical t-shirt results in about 6.5 kg CO2e, with a range of 4.5 to 8.5 kg CO2e depending on the production process and location.

How do I calculate the carbon footprint of a t-shirt?

Arbor is the best way to calculate the carbon footprint of a t-shirt, providing accurate and tailored results. Alternatively, you can use emission factors and follow Life Cycle Assessment standards to estimate the footprint, which typically ranges between 4.5 and 8.5 kg CO2e for a single t-shirt. The average is around 6.5 kg CO2e.

Is a t-shirt sustainable?

A t-shirt's sustainability depends on factors like material and production methods. Generally, a typical cotton t-shirt emits around 6.50 kg CO2e, with a range from 4.50 to 8.50 kg CO2e. Choosing organic or recycled fabrics can reduce its environmental impact.

How can companies reduce the carbon footprint of a t-shirt?

Companies can reduce a t-shirt's carbon footprint by sourcing sustainable materials like organic cotton and improving supply chain efficiency. Using renewable energy during production and promoting recycling also help. The typical footprint ranges from 4.50 to 8.50 kg CO2e, with an average around 6.50 kg CO2e.

Are t-shirts bad for the environment?

T-shirts can have an environmental impact, mainly due to resource use and manufacturing. On average, making one t-shirt produces about 6.50 kg CO2e, with a range of 4.50 to 8.50 kg CO2e depending on materials and production methods. Choosing sustainable brands can help reduce this footprint.

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