Moderate
Material Deep Dive
Acrylic
Acrylic scores well on water on an FSI-weighted basis, but this is offset by higher fossil-based emissions, hazardous-chemical manufacturing risks (acrylonitrile), and end-of-life impacts from persistence and microfiber pollution.
Synthetic
Virgin
End of Life
Not biodegradable
20/100
Chemical Use
High
30/100
Pollution
High
35/100
Water Usage
210 L/kg
99/100
Carbon Footprint
5.4 kg CO₂/kg
56/100
Carbon Footprint Analysis
56/100
Acrylic produces approximately 5.4 kg CO₂-equivalent per kilogram of fiber.
The Data
Carbon Footprint
5.4 kg CO₂/kg
FSI Carbon Score
56/100
Sources: Higg Materials Sustainability Index, Textile Exchange Preferred Fiber Report
Sustainability Breakdown
Microplastic risk
High
Care level
Moderate
Available certifications
OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100, bluesign® APPROVED
Key properties
soft, warm, lightweight, water-resistant, quick-drying, colorfast, wrinkle-resistant, affordable, durable, wool-like feel, pill-prone, low breathability, static-prone
Common uses
sweaters, blankets, yarn for knitting and crocheting, carpets, upholstery, sportswear, thermal wear, socks, hats, home textiles, decorative fabrics
Also known as
polyacrylonitrile, PAN fiber, synthetic wool, acrylic wool, man-made fiber