The benefits of sustainable cotton to energy production for denim fabric

The environmental footprint of textile production, particularly in terms of cotton consumption, water usage,and energy, is a global concern. While the impact of cotton textiles has been extensively explored, research ondenim fabric production, especially regarding the use of various renewable energy sources, remains limited.This study aims to address this gap by examining how increasing the content of sustainable material, likerecycled cotton, and transitioning energy sources from conventional to renewable options, can positivelyimpact the environment. We investigated various scenarios based on the blend of cotton (ranging from 100%conventional to 50% recycled) and the type of energy used (grid, solar, wind, biomass, and hydro). Theenvironmental impacts of producing 1 m of denim fabric were assessed using Life Cycle Assessment (LCA)across eleven critical categories.Our findings reveal that replacing conventional cotton with a 50% recycled blend and grid energy withrenewable sources notably reduces environmental impacts. Specifically, denim fabric produced with 50%recycled cotton powered by the grid showed an 18% decrease in Global Warming Potential (GWP), and 25%reductions in Eutrophication (EU) and Acidification (AC), along with a 15% decrease in Abiotic Depletion(fossil fuels). Switching to solar energy further enhanced these reductions. Among alternative renewableenergies, hydropower was found to be the most effective, presenting the lowest environmental impacts in allcategories. This study conclusively supports the hypothesis regarding the environmental benefits of renewableenergy in textile production. Future research should investigate the combination of renewable energy with abroader range of sustainable materials, such as recycled polyester, tencel, and hemp, to further advancesustainable practices in the textile industry.