Ralph Lauren is taking a significant step forward in its sustainability efforts with the introduction of Color on Demand, a revolutionary cotton dyeing system that eliminates the need for wastewater. This initiative is part of Ralph Lauren’s environmental strategy, Design the Change, which was launched in 2019 with the goal of eliminating harmful chemicals from the brand’s supply chain and reducing water consumption by 2025.
It is estimated that fabric dyeing contributes to 20% of global wastewater each year, and Ralph Lauren aims to address this issue by implementing Color on Demand. Described as the “world’s first scalable, wastewater-free cotton dyeing system,” this innovative technology not only reduces the environmental impact of cotton dyeing but also enables the brand to better cater to personalized consumer demands and manage inventory more efficiently.
To bring Color on Demand to life, Ralph Lauren has partnered with four forward-thinking companies: Dow, Jeanologia, Huntsman Textile Effects, and Corob. Dow is a leader in materials science, Jeanologia specializes in sustainable garment finishing, Huntsman Textile Effects focuses on chemicals and textile dyes, and Corob is a distributor and blender. This collaborative effort ensures that the new dyeing system incorporates cutting-edge expertise from different fields.
During the initial phase, Ralph Lauren will focus on implementing the ECOFAST™ Pure Sustainable Textile Treatment, which is expected to reduce water usage by 40% and chemical usage by an impressive 85% during production. The brand’s ultimate goal is to utilize Color on Demand in at least 80% of its cotton products by 2025, driving significant progress towards a more sustainable and environmentally friendly fashion industry.
Ralph Lauren’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint and embracing innovative solutions is commendable. By introducing Color on Demand, the brand not only aims to improve the sustainability of its own operations but also sets an example for the entire industry. As concerns about climate change and environmental impact continue to grow, initiatives like this are crucial in moving towards a cleaner and more sustainable future.
Useful links:
1. Ralph Lauren Sustainability
2. Fashion Revolution Manifesto
