The EcoThread Data Repository

We've compiled the critical data that drives our mission. Here’s a look at the facts behind the global textile crisis and the opportunity for change.

Just How Big Is the Problem?

Global Textile Waste

92M Tonnes

Generated annually, with up to 87% ending up in landfills.

Source: Earth.org, European Parliament

Industry Water Consumption

93B m³

Enough to meet the needs of 5 million people for an entire year.

Source: Fulgar, European Parliament

Carbon Emissions

10% of Global Total

The fashion industry emits more than aviation and shipping combined.

Source: Hedgehog Environmental

Recycling Job Creation

7x More Jobs

Recycling textiles creates significantly more employment than sending them to landfills.

Source: GAIA Environmental Alliance

School Uniform Waste (UK)

1.4M Uniforms

Thrown away annually in the United Kingdom alone, a massive untapped resource.

Source: BBC Newsround

Untapped Recycling Potential

< 1%

Of textiles are recycled into new clothing, even though 95% of them can be.

Source: World Economic Forum, McKinsey

Our Community Survey

Key Insights from Our Research

Our survey revealed a strong desire for sustainable solutions within our community. While over half of families pass down old uniforms, a surprising 25% either store them indefinitely or throw them away, contributing directly to textile waste. Encouragingly, a resounding 90% of respondents expressed interest in purchasing products made from upcycled uniforms, validating the core of our mission. This data shows a clear opportunity to redirect unwanted textiles into a circular economy that the community is eager to support.

Awareness of Textile Waste's Environmental Impact

While most people have some awareness, there's a clear opportunity to educate the community on the full environmental cost of textile waste.

Would You Buy Upcycled Products?

An overwhelming majority of the community is interested in purchasing products made from upcycled uniforms.

Visualizing the Global Impact

Who Creates the Most Textile Waste?

This chart shows the sheer volume of annual textile waste from major global economies. While developed nations have high per-capita waste, industrial hubs generate staggering total amounts. (Source: Business Waste UK, Earth.org)

Where Does the Carbon Footprint Come From?

Over 70% of the textile industry's carbon emissions come from energy-intensive processes like yarn preparation and dyeing. This highlights a critical area for sustainable innovation. (Source: Quantis International, ScienceDirect)

The Ticking Clock: Is a Circular Economy the Answer?

The circular textile market is projected to more than triple by 2030. This isn't just an environmental necessity; it's a massive economic opportunity we can't afford to miss. (Source: Frost & Sullivan)

Research Methodology

Our data is compiled and verified from a wide range of authoritative sources to ensure accuracy and reliability. This includes academic journals (PLOS, ScienceDirect), government reports (European Parliament, PIB India), industry analyses (McKinsey, Frost & Sullivan), and reports from environmental organizations (WWF, World Economic Forum).

The global data primarily covers the period from 2020-2025, with historical trend analysis from 2000 and projections extending to 2030. Our community survey was conducted in September 2025. For detailed source verification or additional research inquiries, please contact the EcoThread research team.