Poor
Material Deep Dive
Elastane/Spandex
Elastane/spandex scores below average primarily due to high cradle-to-gate greenhouse gas emissions from petrochemical solvent-intensive production combined with high chemical and pollution concerns and effective non-biodegradability.
Synthetic
Virgin
End of Life
Not biodegradable
20/100
Chemical Use
High
30/100
Pollution
High
35/100
Water Usage
100 L/kg
100/100
Carbon Footprint
17 kg CO₂/kg
0/100
Carbon Footprint Analysis
0/100
Elastane/Spandex produces approximately 17 kg CO₂-equivalent per kilogram of fiber.
The Data
Carbon Footprint
17 kg CO₂/kg
FSI Carbon Score
0/100
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® (facility), ISO 14001
Key properties
elastic, lightweight, highly stretchable, quick-drying, moisture-wicking, durable, resistant to oils and lotions, high recovery, smooth texture, versatile blend capability
Common uses
activewear, sportswear, swimwear, denim, undergarments, compression wear, athletic tights, stretch jeans, foundation garments, performance fabrics, medical compression stockings
Also known as
spandex, Lycra, elastase, lycra fiber, polyurethane fiber, stretch fiber