LIFE CYCLE ASSESSMENT:
Industrial laundering of workwear shows dramatic environmental benefits

When compared with household washing, industrial laundering uses 52% less primary energy, 73% less water, 85% less detergent while creating 33% less CO² and 36% less NOx emissions.

In order to find out whether industrial laundering of workwear really is more environmentally friendly than washing at home, E.T.S.A., the European Textile Services Association, commissioned an independent study from one of Europe's leading institutes.

The study assessed and compared the impact on the environment of industrial laundering of workwear, and of home washing of workwear. It asked the question: What is the most cost-effective and environmentally friendly way of washing workwear?

The results showed dramatic environmental benefits from the industrial laundering process.

The study was based on the washing of 1 kilogram of normally soiled blue workwear, i.e. two pieces. It assessed the impact on the environment of detergents used in the washing process, consumption of primary energy and water, as well as atmospheric emissions of CO² and NOx.

Data on the household wash was based on an average German household wash in the mid '90s, as reliable data was readily available from an existing LCA study. The study took into account the production of the detergent, its packaging, and the production and consumption of water and energy for washing and drying. Private transport of the workwear, municipal wastewater treatment and ironing were not included. The filling rate of the washing machine and the consumption rates of the washer and dryer are key factors.

The study used an industrial washing system based on an average of 16 E.T.S.A. members' laundries. The results included the transportation of the workwear from and to the customers, finishing and wastewater pre-treatment up to the point of discharge into the public sewerage system. Production of the detergent, production of thermal energy at the laundry and electrical consumption were also included.

Comparison of the two processes shows that in Europe industrial washing significantly out-performs domestic washing. When compared with household washing, the industrial process uses 52% less primary energy, 73% less water, 85% less detergent while creating 33% less CO² and 36% less NOx emissions.

An independent Critical Review Panel concluded that the study had been conducted to a very high calibre and that the methodology, approach and organisation conform well to the accepted and recognised standards on LCA.

Industrial laundries in Europe offer considerable benefits in terms of the environment and are a convenient and economical method of washing.