Significant environmental cost
Denim is in just about everybody’s wardrobe worldwide. But do you know the significant environmental cost associated with your pair of denim jeans? Denim manufacturing is among the fashion industry’s most ecologically harmful sectors, marked by its substantial water use, energy demands, and chemical pollution.
Denim Journey
Water Consumption: According to Levi Strauss**, the production of a single pair of jeans consumes over 3,780 litres of water. This includes water for cotton irrigation, as cotton is a highly water-intensive crop, and then processing the fabric. Organic cotton, which relies more on rainwater than irrigation, consumes significantly less water than conventional cotton.
** If you are interested in finding out more PDF by Levi Strauss on The Life Cycle of a Jean
Carbon Emissions: The lifecycle of a pair of jeans is responsible for around 33.4 kg of CO2 emissions, including 16.2 kg from manufacturing processes alone. This is equivalent to the emissions from flying around the globe thousands of times or driving billions of miles.
Chemical Use: Denim’s production process involves harmful chemicals, from pesticides and fertilizers to dyes and finishing agents. These substances pose environmental and health risks, with synthetic indigo dyeing and the use of formaldehyde being particularly concerning.
Waste Generation: Up to 20% of the fabric can be wasted during denim manufacturing, with much of this ending up in landfills or being incinerated. Denim dyeing and washing processes produce wastewater laden with toxic chemicals, contributing to environmental pollution.
Energy Consumption: Denim production is energy-intensive, especially during the spinning, weaving, and finishing stages. Much of this energy comes from non-renewable sources, further exacerbating environmental harm.
Despite these challenges, the rise of sustainable denim offers us all an alternative. An increasing number of brands are adopting eco-friendly practices, such as using organic cotton, implementing water-saving technologies, utilizing natural dyes, and integrating renewable energy sources. These measures reduce environmental impact and promote worker welfare through fair labour practices.
Sustainable Denim Solutions: Brands are turning to organic cotton, which is less water and chemical-intensive, and exploring innovative technologies like ozone washing and laser technology to minimize water and chemical use. They’re also experimenting with natural dyes and materials like hemp or linen to reduce environmental impact. Moreover, recycling initiatives and the use of renewable energy sources are becoming more common.
Supporting Sustainable Denim: By choosing sustainable denim, consumers contribute to a healthier planet and support fair labour practices. Brands committed to sustainability are emerging as leaders in the fashion industry, proving that style and environmental responsibility can coexist.
In conclusion
While denim remains a fashion staple, its production poses significant environmental challenges. By being a conscious consumer and adopting sustainable practices, you can lessen the impact on our planet while owning a pair of jeans. Look out for sustainable brands. I am sure there will be more in future.
In the meantime, look after your existing jeans by extending their life—mend-darn-patch. When you no longer want your jeans, donate or upcycle the fabric. Sites like YouTube are full of denim upcycling ideas.
“Fashion can be incredibly wasteful and damaging to the environment, but it doesn’t have to be. We can all make a difference by choosing to support companies that are committed to sustainable practices.” – Stella McCartney
Stella McCartney is known for her commitment to using sustainable and ethical materials in her designs.
