Polyester fibres account for 52% per cent of fibres produced globally, and approximately 32 million tons of polyester are used by the textiles industry each year. In 2020 recycled polyester accounted for just 14% of the polyester market. Raw or virgin polyester is made through an extractive process from fossil fuels and contributes to carbon emissions, accounting for a CO2 equivalent of 2.15 kg per kilogram.

Recycled polyester has a lower environmental impact compared to virgin polyester. In particular, mechanically recycled polyester can reduce GHG emissions by 70%. Currently, mechanically recycled polyester from water bottles accounts for the majority of recycled polyester. However, chemical recycling and textile-to-textile recycling are necessary if they are to reach their goal. Textile Exchange has highlighted that they need to continue to collect more data on the GHG reductions associated with chemical recycling. Nevertheless, even with less significant reductions than mechanical recycling, it's still imperative to the solution. 

Over 70 companies, including Adidas, Gap, Lululemon, Gym Shark and Musto, have accepted the challenge. Each company committing to this initiative must report an annual report of their polyester consumption to Textile Exchange.