Woolgrowers, scientists and carbon specialists known as the Wool Carbon Alliance (WCA) have reviewed research on wool’s role in the natural carbon cycle and have declared advancements in methodology of carbon accounting has led to an up to 80 per cent smaller carbon footprint for wool.

“Advanced methods of on-farm carbon accounting have shown how woolgrowers can play an important role in the carbon cycle,” independent agricultural scientist with FSA Consulting Stephen Wiedemann said.

“Preliminary results suggest where soil carbon sequestration can be achieved, wool production can be carbon neutral.”

Current and relevant science should be used to challenge existing perceptions about wool carbon, according to WCA chairman Martin Oppenheimer.

“We are finding that the wool fibre production systems, based on renewable grass and natural vegetation, complement current demands to reduce carbon emissions.

Wool is part of the natural cycle of water and carbon that can impact climate in a positive way,” he said.

Australian Wool Innovation’s (AWI) product development team is working on ways to reduce wool’s carbon footprint by reducing energy use during manufacturing, laundering and garment disposal.

It is also looking at ways to reduce the amount of energy used during the manufacture of woollen garments and by the consumer when washing and drying.

The team is firstly looking at mechanical modifications to the dyeing machine used in manufacturing – which uses the most energy – and then at the dyeing process itself.

Technology that allows wool garments to be successfully washed at lower temperatures.