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CBAM currently targets metal-heavy products, not textiles directly. But EU buyers are increasingly requesting Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions data from textile suppliers. Start measuring with approximate figures — transparency matters more than precision.

Carbon Reporting & CBAM: Preparing for Emissions Transparency

CBAM currently targets metal-heavy products, not textiles directly. But EU buyers are increasingly requesting Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions data from textile suppliers. Start measuring with approximate figures — transparency matters more than precision.

The Carbon Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM) is an EU trade mechanism designed to ensure carbon pricing applies to imported goods. For textiles, it applies if your products contain significant metal or carbon-intensive content.

More importantly, your European buyers are increasingly asking for carbon data. The EU’s Fit for 55 policy includes an economy-wide emissions-reduction trajectory (including a −55% net greenhouse gas emissions goal by 2030 compared with 1990 at EU level). Major brands often set Science Based Targets or similar goals aligned with those trajectories—which drives detailed supplier emissions questionnaires. Treat Scope 1 and 2 as the usual starting point; do not assume every buyer uses the same percentage target for your facility.

Does CBAM Apply to Your Products?

CBAM currently focuses on metal-heavy products. Check whether your textiles contain significant aluminium, steel, or other metal components. If so, CBAM provisions may apply and you'll need to track and report carbon data.

Even if CBAM doesn't directly apply, expect your buyers to request carbon emissions data. It's becoming a standard requirement for supplier qualification.

What Buyers Will Ask For

If you supply major European brands or retailers, expect requests to disclose:

  • Scope 1 emissions — Direct emissions from your facilities (fuel, heating, power generation)
  • Scope 2 emissions — Indirect emissions from purchased electricity and utilities
  • Total carbon footprint — Often expressed per unit produced or per kilogram shipped

These requests will intensify as EU buyers face their own sustainability reporting deadlines.

How to Start Measuring

You don't need perfect data immediately. Acceptable starting points include:

  • Volume-based models — Estimate emissions per unit produced using industry benchmarks
  • Financial models — Use your production costs and revenue to estimate emissions

Start with approximate figures and refine your methodology as you gather more detailed operational data. Transparency and willingness to improve your calculations is what buyers respect.

Why Carbon Data Matters for Your Business

Carbon reporting is becoming a competitive differentiator. Exporters who can quickly provide emissions data gain buyer preference. Start measuring now, even with approximate figures. As you gain confidence in your calculations, you can reduce emissions through efficiency improvements — which also improves your margins.

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What Should You Do Next?

Plan carbon data you can share with buyers with a free compliance assessment.