Dutch denim brand G-Star Raw is using Bluesign components in its collection, from zippers and rivets to labels and linings. Bluesign is a sustainable technology provider. G-Star Raw will launch Bluesign products this year. Components will be sourced from Bluesign-approved suppliers and produced according to Bluesign criteria. G-Star has already introduced the fabric into its supply chain.
In 2017, G-Star also plans to begin launching a new sustainable production innovation every other year. The innovations will be based on either materials or washing levels—steps that will help close the loop in denim. In 2013, G-Star was the first denim brand to join Bluesign and allowed the sustainability solutions provider to set the standard for responsible chemical use. In 2015, the brand partnered Calik, the first Bluesign denim mill. One year later, G-Star and Calik debuted the first Bluesign-approved denim fabrics, which are in the market now.
G-Star combines Bluesign’s chemical use guidelines with support from the ZDHC Foundation and its own individual action plan, which entails a team of technical engineers working with G-Star’s 28 key suppliers (50 per cent have been partners for over ten years) to clean up their chemistry. The brand sees this as a challenge to detox its denim processes and the industry.
