Sustainable Sourcing 2025: Eco-Friendly Yarn Options for Knitwear

As we move into 2026, sustainability has shifted from a “marketing trend” to a “mandatory requirement.” For global apparel brands, the journey toward a smaller carbon footprint begins at the very first stage: the fiber.

At CdGarment, we are helping our partners navigate this transition by providing a diversified platform for sustainable yarn sourcing that doesn’t compromise on quality, hand-feel, or durability.

1. Why Sustainable Sourcing is the 2026 Priority

Global regulations, such as the EU’s Strategy for Sustainable Textiles, are pushing brands toward circularity. Consumers are demanding transparency. By choosing eco-friendly yarns, brands can:

  • Reduce Water Waste: Traditional cotton and dyeing processes are water-intensive.

  • Lower Carbon Emissions: Recycled fibers require significantly less energy to produce.

  • Enhance Brand Loyalty: Ethical sourcing is a major “trust signal” for modern shoppers.

2. Top Sustainable Yarn Options at CdGarment

We have curated a selection of high-performance, eco-friendly yarns that are compatible with our 3G to 16G knitting machines:

Yarn TypeOrigin/ProcessBest Use
Recycled Polyester (rPET)Post-consumer plastic bottles.Activewear and blended knits.
Organic Cotton (OCS/GOTS)Pesticide-free, low-water farming.Childrenswear and basics.
Tencel™ / LyocellSustainably sourced wood pulp.Fine-gauge (14G) luxury knits.
Recycled Wool & CashmereRepurposed textile waste.Heavywinter sweaters (3G-5G).
Milk Fiber / Bio-SyntheticsProtein-based renewable fibers.Hypoallergenic luxury apparel.

3. The “Closed-Loop” Innovation: Tencel and Lyocell

One of the most exciting options for 2025 is Tencel™. Produced in a closed-loop system where 99% of the solvent is recovered and reused, it offers a silk-like drape and incredible breathability. At CdGarment, we often recommend Tencel blends for women’s summer knits because they are both eco-friendly and highly marketable for their softness.

4. Recycled Synthetics: From Waste to Wardrobe

For brands focused on performance, Recycled Polyester (rPET) is a game-changer. It provides the same strength and moisture-wicking properties as virgin polyester but diverts waste from landfills. We utilize certified rPET to create durable, high-quality knitwear that stands the test of time.

5. How CdGarment Supports Your “Green” Journey

Transitioning to sustainable materials can be complex. CdGarment simplifies the process through:

  • Certification Transparency: We help you source yarns with GRS (Global Recycled Standard) or GOTS certifications.

  • Sampling with Eco-Blends: Our ODM team can create “Green Samples” so you can feel the quality before committing to bulk production.

  • Optimized Production: Our integrated knit and woven lines are designed to minimize fabric waste during the cutting and linking phases.

Conclusion: Building a Greener Future, Together

Sustainability isn’t just about the planet; it’s about the longevity of your brand. At CdGarment, we combine our decades of manufacturing expertise with the latest in textile innovation to ensure your 2026 collections are beautiful, durable, and responsible.

a recycled yarn cone next to a finished CdGarment sweater