Denim Dilemma
Low cost clothing has a high cost to it.
The manufacturing of jeans is toxic, yet it is a constantly growing industry. From the dyeing to the finishing process to its water use, jeans are highly polluting garments.
Why? Large scale chemical indigo dye is heavily toxic: studies conducted by Greenpeace show remnants of heavy metals (cadmium, chromium, mercury, lead and copper, manganese) in the rivers. These not only have a high ecological impact, but have dire consequences on the workers, often leading to brain damage and higher rates of cancer in the workers and surrounding communities.
Top Five European Slow Fashion Brands
Today it is estimated that 70% of Asia’s rivers and lakes are contaminated by the 2.5 billion gallons of wastewater produced by the continent’s textile industry.
Thinking of purchasing some new denim? Why not opt for vintage?! Or better yet, reimagined denim. There are some cool brands doing just that: Check out:
Reformation, E.L.V. Denim (East London Village), Nudie Jeans and DL1961
Want to get rid of your old jeans?
bluejeansgogreen.com
Check out the Blue Jeans Go Green recycling program!
They recycle denim and turn it into denim insulation for communities in need.
Drop it off at your nearest Levi, Rag & bone, Madewell stores or ship it with zappos for good.
By: Isabella Cavalletti
