bluesign®’s DENIM Certified Product Criteria
The bluesign® company which was founded in 2000 focuses on chemical management, impact reduction, worker health and safety, sustainability, and environmental sciences. Part of their outstanding services is the bluesign® DENIM-certified product criteria.
The Partnership With Denim Brand Madewell
Recently, the New York-based denim brand Madewell signed the system partnership agreement to become a bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER denim brand. Therefore, Madewell will be highlighted as a case example in this article as one of their new partners.
Madewell is a denim brand based in the United States known for its high-quality jeans and casual apparel. The company was founded in 1937 as a workwear brand and has evolved over the years to become a prominent player in the fashion industry.
Image by Madewell and provided by bluesign®
bluesign® Criteria for Denim Product Certification
The bluesign® DENIM-certified product criteria are based on a few elements including but not limited to, such as;
- Both the denim mill and the laundry have to bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER manufacturers with approved production processes adhering to bluesign® CRITERIA for production sites.
- Fabric has to be bluesign® APPROVED denim fabric.
- If fabric is indigo-dyed, only bluesign® APPROVED indigo shall be used.
- No chlorine bleaching, no potassium permanganate (PP), no sandblasting and no powder-based enzymes are used to produce the bluesign®
- No pumice stonewashing is used to produce the bluesign®
- If for the bluesign® DENIM an additional claim is valid (e.g., organic cotton, recycled fiber etc.) third party certificates must be given.
Image by bluesign®
The Sustainable Steps Madewell Made
Madewell is recognized for its emphasis on classic designs, timeless aesthetics, and durable materials. The brand’s jeans have gained a loyal following for their comfortable fit and attention to detail. They offer a range of styles, including skinny, straight, boyfriend, and wide-leg, catering to different body types and fashion preferences.
Sustainability and ethical manufacturing are also important values for Madewell. The brand has made efforts to increase transparency in its supply chain, use eco-friendly materials, and implement responsible production practices. They have initiatives such as “Do Well” which highlights their commitment to sustainability.
Madewell has taken several steps to become more sustainable and environmentally conscious. Here are some of the initiatives and practices they have implemented:
- Responsible Materials
- Denim Recycling Program
- Reduced Water and Energy Consumption
- Supply Chain Transparency
- Sustainable Packaging
- Collaborations and Initiatives
- Community Engagement
Image by bluesign®
Madewell About Their bluesign® Partnership
Madewell about what it means for them to partner up with bluesign® as part of their sustainability journey:
- Chemical Management: The bluesign® SYSTEM emphasizes the safe and sustainable use of chemicals in the production process. This helps minimize the use of hazardous substances and promotes safer working conditions for employees.
- Environmental Performance: Madewell’s partnership with bluesign® signifies their commitment to reducing the environmental impact of their operations. The bluesign® SYSTEM evaluates factors such as energy and water consumption, air emissions, and waste management. By adhering to these standards, Madewell works towards minimizing their ecological footprint.
- Continuous Improvement: As a bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER, Madewell engages in ongoing dialogue and collaboration with bluesign to continually improve their sustainability practices. This partnership provides access to expertise, tools, and resources that assist Madewell in advancing its sustainability goals.
Aligning With Other Industry Leaders
By joining the bluesign® SYSTEM, Madewell aligns itself with other industry leaders in sustainable textile production. It signifies their dedication to responsible manufacturing, environmentally friendly materials, and safe working conditions. The bluesign® SYSTEM PARTNER status further reinforces Madewell’s efforts to prioritize sustainability and sets a high standard for the fashion industry.
Participating On The Next Denim Trade Show
Explore the latest innovations and technologies of bluesign® DENIM at the upcoming denim fabric trade show Kingpins in Hong Kong on the 6th of November!
Image by Madewell and provided by bluesign®