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A versatile, silk-like fibre made from wood pulp

about
Viscose

Viscose offers vibrant dye uptake and softness, but its environmental impact depends on improved manufacturing practices and sourcing

Viscose is made from the cellulose from different trees. The trees are cut down, chopped up into small wooden chips and then processed to become a dissolving pulp. This process uses high amounts of water and many chemicals that can not be reused.

our ranking

Viscose is discouraged owing to the difficulty tracing back to source

C

Discouraged

Discouraged materials may be made from synthetic or non-renewable resources, and may be produced using methods that have a high environmental, animal or social impact. While these materials may be less expensive or easier to work with than other options, they may not be the most sustainable or ethical choices for clothing production, and may be problematic from a traceability and compliance perspective.
best sourcing practices
recommended alternatives

How to Source Better

Viscose

Substitutes for

Viscose

Better alternatives to conventional viscose include TENCEL™ Lyocell, TENCEL™ Modal, and upcycled viscose, which use closed-loop processes and certified wood sources.

If viscose must be used, prioritise suppliers rated highly in Canopy’s Hot Button Report and fibres sourced from responsibly managed forests.

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

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