FOR THOSE of us worried about the carbon footprint of our underwear, Marks & Spencer has just launched its first ever carbon-neutral bra in the Autograph Leaves range.

The collection (right), which also includes knickers and suspenders, has been certified by the Carbon Trust Footprinting Certification Company.

Calculations are made taking into account each garment’s life cycle - from manufacture and transportation through to the energy used by customers when washing and drying their underwear.

Made in the company’s eco-model factory in Sri Lanka, which has renewable energy features and reduced waste initiatives, the underwear also benefits the local community.

Working in partnership with nine farmers in Sri Lanka, M&S is planting morel than 6,000 trees – including mango and lime – to help rebuild forested areas and tackle rural poverty.

The Autumn Leaves collection is available from this week, priced from £9.50 for knickers and £22 for a bra.