Fashion emissions surge nearly 14% in two years, driven by polyester growth

According to a new report by the Apparel Impact Institute, the fashion industry’s greenhouse-gas emissions climbed 6.3% in 2024, after a 7.5% rise in 2023, bringing total output to roughly one gigaton - comparable to Japan’s whole climate footprint. The increase is linked to expanding global fibre production, particularly inexpensive virgin polyester, which remains cheaper than recycled alternatives. Kurt Kipka, the institute’s chief impact officer, highlighted cost challenges and rising energy prices driven by the Iran war as obstacles to decarbonisation, urging manufacturers to consider renewable power and onsite battery storage.

The institute’s separate analysis warns that without swift action, the sector could see profits fall by 34% by 2030 due to supply-chain disruptions and higher operating costs. Nonetheless, the report cites positive trends: the count of apparel companies adopting or committing to science-based climate targets rose from about 100 at the end of 2021 to more than 700 by June 2026, and several major brands have reported double-digit emissions cuts and increased use of recycled fibres. Yet, some firms, such as Burberry, have postponed earlier net-zero commitments amid political shifts and inflation pressures.