Carbon-Neutral Denim: Brands Walking the Talk
You’ve probably heard about sustainability in the fashion industry, whether it’s a brand’s commitment to reducing water usage or using recycled materials in their products. But when it comes to denim, one of the most beloved and enduring staples in our wardrobes, it’s not just about sustainability anymore. A new trend is taking over in the denim world: carbon neutrality. This means that these brands are taking a step beyond just reducing their environmental impact and are actually offsetting their carbon emissions to have a net-zero carbon footprint. In this article, we’ll dive into the world of carbon-neutral denim and explore which brands are truly walking the talk when it comes to sustainability.
What is Carbon-Neutral Denim?
Before we discuss the brands leading the charge in carbon-neutral denim, let’s first break down what this term actually means. In simple terms, carbon neutrality refers to achieving a balance between emitting carbon and removing carbon from the atmosphere. When a brand is carbon-neutral, it means that it is not contributing any additional carbon to the environment. This is achieved by offsetting the carbon emissions through various methods such as planting trees, investing in renewable energy projects, or funding carbon reduction programs.
The Environmental Impact of Denim
We all love a good pair of jeans, but the reality is that denim production has a significant environmental impact. From water usage to chemical pollution, the denim industry has a long way to go in terms of sustainability. According to the World Wildlife Fund, it takes approximately 2,000 gallons of water to produce just one pair of jeans. This is not only an issue for the environment but also for the communities and workers involved in the denim supply chain.
Reducing Water Usage
Many denim brands have started implementing water-saving techniques in their production process, such as using laser technology to distress jeans instead of using harmful chemicals. Brands like Levi’s, Nudie Jeans, and Wrangler have also launched collections made with sustainable materials like organic cotton and recycled denim. These efforts are certainly a step in the right direction, but they only address a small part of denim’s environmental impact.
The Importance of Going Carbon-Neutral
Carbon neutrality goes beyond just reducing a brand’s environmental impact. It’s about taking responsibility for the carbon emissions that are unavoidable in the production process. By investing in carbon offsetting projects, brands can ensure that they are doing their part in addressing climate change. This not only benefits the environment but also makes a statement to consumers that these brands are truly committed to sustainability.
The Pioneers in Carbon-Neutral Denim
Although still a relatively new concept in the fashion industry, some brands are already leading the way in carbon-neutral denim. One such brand is Triarchy, a Los Angeles-based denim label that has been carbon-neutral since 2018. They achieve this by investing in renewable energy projects and using sustainably sourced materials in their production. Another pioneering brand in this space is Outerknown, founded by surfer and environmentalist, Kelly Slater. Not only is their denim collection made from organic cotton, but they also offset their carbon emissions by supporting wind energy development in Oklahoma.
Making Strides Towards Carbon Neutrality
Other notable brands making efforts towards carbon neutrality in their denim production include Everlane, RE/DONE, and Warp + Weft. Everlane’s denim collection is made from organic cotton and recycled water bottles, and they offset their carbon emissions through the support of clean energy projects. RE/DONE recently launched a collection of sustainably produced jeans made from recycled denim and cotton. They also partner with Carbonfund.org to offset their carbon emissions and support the organization’s reforestation projects. Warp + Weft uses a proprietary dyeing process in their denim production that reduces water usage by 76%, and they also offset their carbon emissions by supporting carbon reduction projects.
Final Thoughts
Carbon-neutral denim may still be a relatively new concept, but it is gaining momentum in the fashion industry. By investing in carbon offsetting projects, brands are not only reducing their environmental impact but also setting a standard for sustainability in the denim world. As consumers, we also play a crucial role in supporting these efforts by choosing to buy from brands that are genuinely committed to reducing their carbon footprint. It’s time to hold fashion brands accountable for their impact on the environment, and carbon-neutral denim is just the beginning.
