A hardy, natural fibre ideal for light clothing

about

Linen

Flax plants can absorb high amounts of carbon and make the soil healthier

Linen is made from the flax plant, a resilient crop well-suited to cooler climates with naturally more rainfall. Flax typically requires fewer synthetic inputs, such as pesticides and fertilisers, compared to other plant fibres like cotton. It has a long history in textiles and is valued for being breathable, strong, and having good biodegradability.

The environmental footprint of linen is quite dependent on the retting process used to separate the fibres. Dew retting is the better option as it leverages natural moisture and microbial action in the field. This avoids the large volumes of water and harsh chemicals associated with water or chemical retting, which is often used in larger-scale production of linen.

our ranking

Organic linen is preferred, conventional linen is approved

A

Preferred

Preferred materials are considered to be the least environmentally impactful, sustainable, and ethical options for textile production. These materials are often made from natural, renewable resources, and are processed using methods that have minimal impact on the environment. These materials are typically more expensive than synthetic alternatives, but are considered to be worth the extra cost due to their positive environmental and ethical impact, as well as longevity and resell value at end of life.

B

Approved

Approved materials may be less expensive than preferred materials, but may not be as ethical or sustainable as Preferred materials in their production. Even when using Approved materials, certain standards and guidelines should be followed to ensure minimising negative impacts.

best sourcing practices

recommended alternatives

How to Source Good

Linen

Substitutes for

Linen

Opt for organic linen where possible and prefer if it’s dew-retted. Partner with suppliers who support fair working conditions during harvest. Certifications can provide additional assurance on social and environmental standards.

If your team needs support sourcing, talk to us to find out how we can help.