THE DIRT ON DENIM

First of all, WE F'NG LOVE DENIM! From crisp crunchy darks to overly distressed lights with gaping holes in the knees. Wide legs, skinnies, and straights. Chambray button downs with cuffed sleeves and jean jackets with collars popped - SWOON... Many of our favorite memories are built around a good pair of jeans!

But (you know there is always a but) the denim industry, while producing one of the most popular and ubiquitous clothing items worldwide, has a significant negative impact on the environment. As a sustainable marketplace - we DON'T LOVE that...

Production of denim requires a vast amount of water, with estimates suggesting that producing a single pair of jeans can consume up to 10,000 liters. This excessive water usage contributes to the depletion of local water resources, particularly in regions already experiencing water scarcity.

Dyeing and finishing processes involve harmful chemicals that are often discharged into nearby waterways, leading to pollution that adversely affects aquatic life and local communities.

Cultivation of cotton, the primary material in denim, relies heavily on the use of pesticides and fertilizers, which can degrade soil quality and contribute to biodiversity loss.

The denim industry's environmental footprint is further compounded by energy-intensive manufacturing processes and significant carbon emissions, necessitating urgent measures to adopt more sustainable practices.

That's some heavy information but there is no need to distress over your denim blues - see what we did there? Ha!

Maya Angelou said it best "Do the best until you know better. Then, when you know better, do better." We couldn't agree with that statement more - Here are our top tips to enjoy denim while minimizing your ecological footprint:

Choose Eco-Friendly Brands: Opt for brands that prioritize sustainable practices, such as using organic cotton, reducing water consumption, and employing eco-friendly dyes.
Buy Second-Hand or Vintage Denim: Purchasing pre-owned denim reduces the demand for new production, thereby conserving resources and minimizing waste. A few local options for vintage denim in Billings, MT are Irene's Back Pocket at Marketplace 3310, Montana Vintage in Downtown Billings, Switch Society Clothing Swap on Grand Avenue, and for a limited time you can check out a Thrift Pop Up Shop by Rock Pigeon Vintage in our workshop!
Look for Certifications: Check for certifications like Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS) or OEKO-TEX, which ensure that the denim is produced sustainably and without harmful chemicals.
Invest in Quality Over Quantity: Choose high-quality denim that lasts longer, reducing the need for frequent replacements and ultimately lowering your environmental impact.
Support Local and Ethical Production: Prioritize denim brands that produce locally and adhere to fair labor practices, which can reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation and ensure ethical working conditions. You can check out Red Ants Pants in White Sulphur Springs, MT for workwear styles or try a quick online search to wander down a wonderful rabbit hole of sustainable denim options.

Shopping sustainably is a powerful way to make a positive impact on the planet. By choosing eco-friendly and ethically produced denim, you are not only reducing your environmental footprint but also supporting industries that prioritize the well-being of our planet and its inhabitants. Every mindful purchase is a step towards a more sustainable future, reflecting your commitment to a healthier world for generations to come.