Outdoor industry leaders launch open-source tool to decarbonize textile mills
Leading outdoor industry brands have launched the Textile Heating Electrification Tool, an open-source resource aimed at helping textile mills reduce emissions by transitioning to efficient electric heating technologies. This initiative is the result of a collaboration between Cotopaxi, L.L. Bean, New Balance, Patagonia, REI Co-op, W.L. Gore & Associates, Global Efficiency Intelligence, and the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA). Developed under OIA’s Clean Heat Impact CoLab, the tool marks a significant step toward decarbonizing textile manufacturing and supporting industry-wide climate goals.
The textile and apparel sector contributes approximately 2% of global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, with rising consumer demand intensifying environmental challenges. The new tool equips industry leaders with key insights to replace fossil fuel-based heating systems with sustainable electric alternatives, aligning with broader sustainability commitments.
Key Features of the Tool
The Textile Heating Electrification Tool includes:
- Data management system to track energy consumption and emissions.
- Modeling and simulation module to assess potential benefits.
- Implementation checklist for transitioning to electric heating.
- Manufacturer and supplier finder to connect mills with technology providers.
The tool was developed based on the findings of the 2023 Electrification of Heating in the Textile Industry study, which highlighted the potential for electric heating technologies to reduce emissions and costs. Following extensive beta testing with nominated textile facilities, the tool was refined to ensure practical applicability.
Industry Leaders Endorse the Initiative
Andrew Dempsey, Director of Climate at REI, emphasized the importance of industry collaboration, stating, “Electric heat technologies are crucial for decarbonizing textile manufacturing. This tool provides valuable information to accelerate decision-making on decarbonization investments.”
Kim Drenner, Head of Environmental Impact at Patagonia, noted Patagonia’s ongoing partnership with OIA since 2021, saying, “This tool supports suppliers in identifying electrified technology to replace fossil fuel-based heat systems. It wouldn’t be possible without OIA’s collaborative efforts.”
Markus Wieser, Climate Team Leader at W.L. Gore & Associates, highlighted the tool’s impact, stating, “By shortening the due diligence process for implementing electric manufacturing equipment, this tool can significantly accelerate supply chain decarbonization.”
A Collective Effort for Sustainability
OIA’s Impact CoLabs serve as a pre-competitive innovation platform, enabling brands and suppliers to collaborate efficiently on sustainability goals. By providing clear, data-driven pathways to electrification, this tool serves as a blueprint for reducing carbon emissions across the textile supply chain.
For more details and access to the tool, visit outdoorindustry.org.
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