Canada’s Textile Industry and the Net Zero Challenge

Canada’s textile industry may be small, but its impact on the environment—and its potential for change—is significant. Globally, the textile and apparel industry accounts for up to 10% of total carbon emissions. This is more than international flights and maritime shipping combined (Government of Canada, 2024). From uniforms and protective apparel to specialty fabrics, small and mid-sized textile businesses are part of supply chains that touch almost every sector.

Now, more Canadian textile companies are stepping up to join Canada’s Net Zero Challenge. This federal program helps businesses set credible plans to cut emissions to net zero by 2050. As of August 2025, fifteen members of the Canadian Textile Industry Association (CTIA) were participating. One of the early participants was Calko Group, a textile manufacturer. Achieve Sustainability had the opportunity to help them complete their net zero plan and start reducing emissions.

Understanding Textile Emissions

Running a textile business requires a lot of energy. The main sources of emissions typically include:

• Building heating, especially if natural gas is used.

• Heat and steam for dyeing, finishing, knitting, weaving, and other production or assembly steps (often powered by natural gas).

• Electricity for running equipment, compressed air, and lighting.

• Materials like cotton or polyester, which embody emissions from how they’re grown or manufactured (Sadowski & Cummis, 2022).

  
  

The Business Case for Reducing Emissions

Cutting emissions isn’t just about helping the environment; it can also strengthen your business. Textile SMEs that act now can:

• Stay competitive as large buyers, retailers, and government contracts increasingly ask for sustainability credentials.

• Save money through energy efficiency and smarter use of equipment.

• Build trust with customers who want to know the products they’re buying are made responsibly.

• Get ahead of regulations that are coming down the line in Canada and globally.

  
  

How the Net Zero Challenge Supports Businesses

The Net Zero Challenge provides a clear framework for companies of any size to create a roadmap for reducing emissions. Participating businesses commit to measuring their emissions, setting reduction targets, publishing a plan, and taking action. In return, they receive recognition from the Government of Canada and demonstrate leadership in their sector.

For SMEs, it can feel overwhelming to know where to start. That’s why having a structured program, with the right support, makes the process manageable. When Calko Group went through the Challenge, the first step was simply understanding where their emissions came from. From there, we mapped out opportunities to cut energy use, explore cleaner technologies, and set realistic targets.

Taking Action: The First Steps

If you’re running a textile business, now is the time to explore what reducing emissions could mean for you. It’s not only about climate responsibility; it’s about cost savings and staying competitive in a changing market.

At Achieve Sustainability, we help small and mid-sized businesses, including textile companies, measure their emissions and create practical net zero plans. If you’d like to learn how the Net Zero Challenge could benefit your company, book a complementary consultation here.

The Future of the Textile Industry

The textile industry is at a crossroads. As the world shifts towards more sustainable practices, companies must adapt or risk being left behind. The Net Zero Challenge is a vital step in this transition. By committing to reducing emissions, businesses can not only improve their environmental impact but also enhance their market position.

Embracing Innovation

Innovation is key to achieving net zero. Textile businesses can explore new technologies and materials that reduce emissions. This includes investing in renewable energy sources and adopting more efficient production methods. By embracing innovation, companies can lead the way in sustainable practices.

Engaging Stakeholders

Engaging stakeholders is crucial for success. This includes employees, suppliers, and customers. By fostering a culture of sustainability, businesses can create a shared vision for a greener future. Collaboration with stakeholders can lead to innovative solutions and improved practices.

Monitoring Progress

Monitoring progress is essential for achieving net zero goals. Companies should regularly assess their emissions and evaluate the effectiveness of their strategies. This transparency builds trust with customers and stakeholders, reinforcing the company's commitment to sustainability.

Conclusion

The textile industry has a significant role to play in the fight against climate change. By participating in the Net Zero Challenge, businesses can take meaningful steps towards reducing emissions. This not only benefits the environment but also strengthens their market position. Now is the time for textile companies to act. Together, we can create a sustainable future.

netzero netzerochallenge SMEs textiles

References

Government of Canada. (2024). Addressing Plastic Waste and Pollution from the Textile and Apparel Sector: Consultation Document. Government of Canada. https://www.canada.ca/en/environment-climate-change/services/managing-reducing-waste/consultations/roadmap-plastic-waste-pollution-textile-apparel-sector/proposed-roadmap-plastic-waste-pollution-textile-apparel-sector.html Retrieved September 21, 2025.

Sadowski, M., & Cummis, C. (2022). A Roadmap to Net-zero Emissions for the Apparel Sector. World Resources Institute. https://www.wri.org/technical-perspectives/roadmap-net-zero-emissions-apparel-sector Retrieved September 21, 2025.