Q: Does it really take 1800 gallons of water to produce a pair of pants?
Green Water Technologies: While there are a few environmentally-conscious clothing manufacturers, the production of denim is one of the most water-consuming processes on earth. Starting in the field, cotton requires water to cultivate. It also takes water to dye and add certain finishes to different styles of jeans.
Q: Aren’t there regulations standards that limit the amount of water companies can use?
Green Water Technologies: While the Environmental Protection Agency and other government bodies do impose regulations on companies, there really is not much in the way of rules that limit how much water they can use. The majority of rules and laws have more to do with pollution, which is extremely important, than of actual usage.
Q: What are clothing manufacturers doing about it?
Green Water Technologies: There are many eco-friendly clothing manufacturers that have popped up in recent years. Further, major denim companies, such as Levi’s, have begun taking a closer look at their production practices. Gap, which is the parent company of Old Navy and other brands, has already begun its water conservation efforts and has pledged to reduce water usage by 10 billion liters by the end of 2020.
Q: Once you have a piece of clothing, is there any way to offset water consumption?
Green Water Technologies: Once you’ve already purchased something, the best thing you can do is either wear it twice – jeans actually are often more comfortable between washes – or use your washing machine’s quick cycle, which will use less water. You may also line dry clothing, which reduces your reliance on electricity.
