Accurate and transparent Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) datasets are essential for reliable sustainability evaluations, particularly in the complex and varied textile industry. Historically, the ecoinvent database has been a foundational source for LCA studies in the textile sector. This paper critically examines the limitations of the ecoinvent v3.7 dataset, which is widely used in academic research, industry tools, and policymaking. While newer versions, such as v3.11, released in 2024, have addressed many issues, including enhanced geographical representation and updated emission profiles for chemicals, this study emphasises the historical implications of earlier data versions. By comparing the cradle-to-gate Global Warming Potential (GWP) of wool and polyester jumpers, this research reveals how aggregated and outdated data underestimated the polyester’s environmental impact while overestimating that of wool. These discrepancies have shaped fibre certification, eco-labelling, and consumer perceptions for years. Understanding the legacy of these datasets is vital for re-evaluating past LCA-based decisions and guiding future assessments toward greater regional relevance and transparency.

Throughout a garment’s life cycle, the use and end-of-life phases are crucial in determining its environmental impact, due to the resources that would be utilised and waste produced during maintenance and disposal. Consumption patterns differ among countries and cultures; however, in New Zealand, there is limited published information to date. To address this gap, an anonymous online poll was conducted examining laundry practices, lifetime wear events and disposal practices for woollen and synthetic-blend knitted jumpers, which are predominantly used as winter clothing in New Zealand. The survey revealed considerable differences in the ways woollen and synthetic garments were worn, maintained and discarded. Over its lifetime, although woollen garments were worn a greater number of times, they were washed less. At the end of life, both types of jumpers showed significant reuse percentages. This information is useful for accurately modelling the inventory needed for assessing the environmental implication of apparel, using the life cycle assessment (LCA) methodology. By comparing New Zealand’s washing and disposal practises to those of other countries, this study found significant differences, highlighting the need for country-specific data for future LCAs.

Knitwear producers in New Zealand are looking for ways to deal with the uncertainties that have arisen due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This research considers the impact of the pandemic and its effects on the development and long-term survival of the knitwear sector. An anonymous online survey was undertaken among New Zealand’s established knitwear manufacturers, with seven taking up the survey. The respondent companies accounted for around half of the total workforce employed in the country’s knitwear sector. The data were analysed using both quantitative and qualitative methods. A SWOT analysis was conducted to place the sector in a global context, identifying necessary measures for future strategic planning. The findings revealed that the supply chain has been disrupted, some businesses have stalled, and the cost of obtaining raw materials has skyrocketed. Due to the impact of the pandemic on the tourism industry, revenues have fallen. As COVID-19 is an ongoing challenge, knitwear manufacturers need to rearrange their supply chains to increase local suppliers and explore new and innovative ways to engage with domestic customers.