Good
Material Deep Dive
Acetate
Acetate scores 74/100 because its estimated water use is low and its carbon footprint sits in a mid-range similar to other man-made cellulosics.
Regenerated
Virgin
End of Life
10+ years
20/100
Chemical Use
Moderate
60/100
Pollution
Moderate
60/100
Water Usage
200 L/kg
99/100
Carbon Footprint
2.2 kg CO₂/kg
86/100
Carbon Footprint Analysis
86/100
Acetate produces approximately 2.2 kg CO₂-equivalent per kilogram of fiber.
The Data
Carbon Footprint
2.2 kg CO₂/kg
FSI Carbon Score
86/100
Sources: Higg Materials Sustainability Index, Textile Exchange Preferred Fiber Report
Sustainability Breakdown
Microplastic risk
Low
Care level
Moderate
Available certifications
OEKO-TEX Standard 100, EU Ecolabel (for certain MMCF producers), FSC, PEFC, TÜV Austria OK biodegradable (for specific cellulose-diacetate fibres)
Key properties
silky, smooth, good drape, breathable, relatively lightweight, low insulation, low inherent stretch, moderate moisture absorbency, heat sensitive
Common uses
linings, dresses, blouses, formalwear, scarves, lingerie, women’s suiting, lightweight jackets, home textiles such as curtains and decorative fabrics
Also known as
cellulose acetate, acetate rayon, cellulose diacetate, cellulose triacetate