HOW CO₂ EMISSIONS AVOIDED IS CALCULATED
CO₂ emissions avoided are calculated using a reuse-led methodology based on the total weight of textiles collected. All textiles are measured in kilograms at the point of collection, and where item counts are used, a standard average garment weight of 0.5 kg per item is applied to reflect a mixed stream of post-consumer clothing. A fixed carbon factor of 3.3 kg CO₂e per kg of textiles is then applied to estimate the environmental benefit. This factor reflects the avoided emissions associated with producing new garments, recognising that reuse delivers the highest environmental value within the waste hierarchy.
The approach is informed by lifecycle assessment data and UK industry guidance, including work from WRAP (Waste and Resources Action Programme), and is designed to provide a consistent and conservative estimate of impact. The same methodology is applied across all textile bank locations and partner programmes to ensure comparability of reporting. Reported figures represent CO₂ equivalent (CO₂e) emissions avoided through diversion from disposal and the displacement of new production, and may vary depending on material composition, garment condition, and final destination. Further information on WRAP’s work in this area can be found at https://wrap.org.uk.
