Moderate
Material Deep Dive
Polypropylene
Polypropylene scores 66/100 because its low water use and moderate cradle-to-gate carbon footprint are offset by high pollution/chemical risk, microplastic shedding, and non-biodegradability.
Synthetic
Virgin
End of Life
Not biodegradable
20/100
Chemical Use
High
30/100
Pollution
High
35/100
Water Usage
59 L/kg
100/100
Carbon Footprint
1.586 kg CO₂/kg
90/100
Carbon Footprint Analysis
90/100
Polypropylene produces approximately 1.586 kg CO₂-equivalent per kilogram of fiber.
The Data
Carbon Footprint
1.586 kg CO₂/kg
FSI Carbon Score
90/100
Sources: Higg Materials Sustainability Index, Textile Exchange Preferred Fiber Report
Sustainability Breakdown
Microplastic risk
High
Care level
Easy
Available certifications
OEKO-TEX STANDARD 100, bluesign, ZDHC MRSL-conform processing
Key properties
lightweight, low density, hydrophobic, quick-drying, good thermal insulation, stain and moisture resistant, abrasion resistant, durable, chemically inert, low water footprint, relatively low carbon footprint vs other virgin synthetics
Common uses
carpets and rugs, carpet backing, upholstery fabrics, curtains, tablecloths, thermal underwear and base layers, sportswear and socks, nonwoven medical gowns and masks, disposable hygiene products, reusable shopping bags, geotextiles, filtration media, outdoor furniture fabrics
Also known as
olefin, PP fiber, polypropylene fiber, polyolefin fiber