Books By Style

In recent years, it has become increasingly important to adopt more sustainable practices in the fashion industry. As the second-largest consumer of water, fashion is behind a staggering 20% of the world’s wastewater according to the United Nations Environment Programme (UNEP). Imagine a single cotton shirt can drain nearly 700 gallons of water. But the real crisis isn’t just how much water is used—it’s how much is poisoned. With plastics and chemicals swirling through the manufacturing process, clean water sources are left teetering on the edge of contamination.

With clean water becoming scarce, it’s imperative that manufacturers reduce their water usage by adopting new techniques. Waterless dyeing is an innovative technique that eliminates the use of water and chemicals in the manufacturing process. Not only is it relatively inexpensive, but it’s an inexhaustible resource that can save 134 liters of water. There are many different waterless techniques, with brands and manufacturers often developing new processes. Popular techniques include AirDye and Dyecoo’s CO2 dyeing technology. Dyecoo’s technique has been implemented by major brands like Nike and IKEA.

To combat the overconsumption and pollution of water, more brands and designers are utilizing these waterless dyeing practices. Since 2020, Gap Inc. has been releasing denim dyed with a waterless foam-dyeing technique called Dry Indigo®. Compared to traditional dyeing methods, this technique eliminates water discharge while using 99% less water and 89% less chemicals. Dry Indigo® reduces water overconsumption, pollution, and energy usage by 65%. The process is exclusive to the Spanish denim mill, Tejidos Royo, with Banana Republic being one of the first brands to use the technology.

Since 2016, Gap Inc. has been on a mission to transform its water use, launching its pioneering Washwell™ initiative. This smart denim wash program has already saved over 229 million liters of water from waste. The company’s commitment extends to every stage of production, partnering with Saitex- a cutting-edge sustainable factory that recycles 98% of its water. As influential brands like Gap lead the way, the fashion industry edges closer to a future with a reduced impact and a mutually beneficial relationship with the environment.