2025
A Reference for Water Consumption During Indigo Dyeing
An Indigo Council Study by Transformers Foundation
For years, the denim industry has operated without a scientifically credible standard for water usage during the indigo dyeing process. The result? Widespread confusion, unverifiable marketing claims, and limited accountability.
This paper changes that. “A Reference for Water Consumption During Indigo Dyeing” is the first open-source study to define what typical, excessive, and best-in-class water consumption actually looks like in indigo dyeing — across both rope and slasher systems.
Backed by data from seven globally respected denim mills, the study equips brands, mills, buyers, and policymakers with a new benchmark to assess sustainability performance and claims.
WHY THIS PAPER IS NEEDED
Water claims have been inconsistent for years. Brands, mills, and marketing teams frequently cite water usage figures without common definitions or verified data.
Innovation needs measurement. Without a baseline, it’s impossible to validate claims about water-saving technologies, dye alternatives, or new chemical systems.
Water scarcity is real. With most denim production occurring in water-stressed regions, reducing unnecessary water consumption isn’t a trend — it’s a responsibility.
"
Without a benchmark, even mills’ best-intentioned efforts can be perceived as greenwashing, which is becoming not just a reputational risk, but a liability for brands and companies as well.
