EIM (Environmental Impact Measuring), the global leader in assessing the environmental impact of garment finishing, has released its first worldwide report titled “Innovations and Challenges in Denim Finishing: 2024 Report.” Drawing from over 115,000 denim finishing processes, the report establishes new sustainability standards and offers a comprehensive industry overview.
Findings show that 63% of denim finishing processes now have low environmental impact, reflecting a growing commitment to responsible production. However, the report also raises concerns over the continued use of harmful substances—24% of processes still rely on hazardous chemicals like pumice stones and potassium permanganate, posing risks to both the environment and worker health.
Water usage remains a critical issue, with an average of 30 liters per garment, above the optimal 22.5-liter benchmark. The report suggests adopting water-saving methods, including optimized rinsing, low-impact fabrics, and technologies like ozone, e-flow, and smart foam.
To further improve, the report urges the use of ZDHC-certified chemicals, along with greater automation and digitalization in denim processing.
Co-author Begoña García emphasizes that the lack of reliable impact metrics has long hindered sustainable progress in textiles. This data-driven report serves as a milestone in transparency and continuous improvement.
The full report is available for download and will be updated annually, aiming to guide brands and suppliers toward a more sustainable future.
