The denim industry, while iconic, faces significant environmental challenges. Traditional denim production utilises aniline, a chemical linked to aquatic pollution and worker health risks. But a beacon of hope has emerged: a collaborative effort between Archroma, G-Star RAW, and Advance Denim is pioneering a new era of aniline-free denim.
This forward-thinking initiative aims to minimise the environmental impact of denim production and pave the way for a more circular industry. Launched in 2019, the partnership focuses on Archroma’s innovative DENISOL® PURE INDIGO 30 solution.
DENISOL® PURE INDIGO 30: A Game Changer for Sustainable Denim
This 30% pre-reduced indigo solution eliminates the presence of aniline impurities throughout the denim production process. This not only protects waterways and aquatic life but also simplifies waste treatment. Compared to traditional indigo grains, DENISOL® PURE INDIGO 30 boasts several sustainability advantages:
- Reduced Water Usage: Preparation, washing, and wastewater treatment require significantly less water.
- Lower Chemical Consumption: Hazardous chemicals are minimised, promoting a cleaner production process.
- Enhanced Recycling: Aniline-free denim offers better recyclability and reuse potential, fostering a more circular economy.
- Authentic Deep Indigo Shades: Despite its eco-friendly nature, DENISOL® PURE INDIGO 30 delivers the classic and vibrant indigo colours denim is known for.
Industry Leaders Unite for Sustainable Denim
Umberto De Vita, Market Segment Director for Denim at Archroma Textile Effects, emphasises the importance of this collaboration: “By removing aniline, we eliminate the risk of pollution in denim production and wastewater. This also facilitates efficient recycling, making circularity a more viable option. We’re thrilled to see G-Star RAW embrace DENISOL® PURE INDIGO 30, demonstrating that sustainability can go hand-in-hand with productivity and iconic indigo shades.”
This sentiment is echoed by Rebecka Sancho of G-Star RAW: “To remain a leader in denim, G-Star RAW constantly challenges industry norms. We prioritise sustainable materials, clean chemistry, and durable, reusable designs. DENISOL® PURE INDIGO 30 allows us to minimise pollution and lessen our environmental impact without sacrificing the classic indigo look.”
G-Star RAW’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond aniline-free denim. They aim to incorporate 20% Cradle to Cradle Certified® fabrics into their collections by 2025. Their partnership with Archroma and Advance Denim directly supports this goal, as DENISOL® boasts a Gold Level Material Health Certificate from the Cradle to Cradle Products Innovation Institute.
Advance Denim: Pioneering Aniline-Free Production
Joining the sustainability movement is Advance Denim, a company dedicated to producing both authentic and eco-conscious denim. Amy Wang, Managing Director of Advance Denim, highlights their role in the collaboration: “As industry innovators, Advance Denim is proud to partner with Archroma and G-Star RAW. We were the first mill in China to launch an aniline-free collection with Archroma. Additionally, our new plant in Vietnam operates as a 100% aniline-free indigo factory utilising DENISOL® PURE INDIGO 30.”
Johan Van den Heede, Director of Europe Marketing for Advance Denim, emphasises their commitment to sustainability and innovation: “We stand alongside Archroma and G-Star RAW in pioneering cleaner denim production methods. This collaboration reflects our unwavering dedication to a more sustainable future.”
