New Report Challenges Denim’s Vague Sustainability Claims

BJ Desk

In a move to promote transparency in the denim industry, non-profit organization Transformers Foundation has teamed up with Naveena Denim, a leading textile mill in Pakistan, to release a data-driven report on water consumption during indigo dyeing.

The report directly addresses what the partners describe as “vague and unverified sustainability claims” that have become common in the denim supply chain. By using real-world data from mills in Pakistan, Turkey, Italy, and China, the study sets out to establish both baseline and best-in-class metrics for water use in two key dyeing processes: rope dyeing and slasher dyeing.

“There’s a growing need for credible environmental data in the fashion industry. This report is a step toward standardizing how sustainability is measured and communicated,” said Transformers Foundation in an official statement.

Key findings confirm that significant reductions in water use are possible when mills adopt best practices and efficient technologies—providing a practical roadmap for reducing environmental impact across denim manufacturing.

The full report was released on July 23 and is now publicly accessible on the Transformers Foundation website.