Gap recognizes that as one of the world’s largest apparel retailers, there’s a great opportunity to make a difference and a great responsibility to our shared planet. That’s why Gap is committed to integrating sustainability more deeply into every aspect of its business, from the materials sourced to the suppliers that the brand works with; and ultimately, the clothes that we all wear.
As part of the Gap for Good initiative launched in 2016, Gap is stitching together programs and partnerships to reduce the environmental impact of denim manufacturing. It starts with two important components: water and cotton.
Washwell: Innovation in denim wash
Building on Gap’s dedication to water conservation, designers at Gap are taking this work one step further by finding ways to save water and reduce pollution through the design choices they make—while staying true to the look and feel of denim that customers love. For example, selected Gap denim washes now incorporate plant-based fabric softeners that are certified by the USDA as BioPreferred, a positive step forward in the effort to eliminate hazardous chemicals and protect the health of workers and waterways. Smart denim wash techniques have already saved millions of liters of water, and product design teams are working to further increase these savings, while cutting down on energy use. Since 2014, Gap Inc.’s suppliers have saved more than 750 million liters of water—that’s enough to provide every person in the US with one days’ worth of drinking water.
Supporting sustainable cotton
Cotton is essential to the Gap business. It gives the iconic 1969 denim the strength and comfort it’s known for. Cotton also supports the livelihoods of millions of people around the world. That’s why Gap has joined the Better Cotton Initiative (BCI) to partner on sustainable cotton farming initiatives worldwide. From farmworker training, to water conservation and chain of custody traceability, using Better Cotton reinforces Gap’s commitment to sustainable production of the world’s most important natural fiber. Gap sources sustainable cotton in making the clothes. With the help of Better Cotton Initiative, Gap is committed to getting 100 percent of its cotton from more sustainable sources by 2021.
Great products are designed with sustainability in mind
Gap continues to make improvements in the design and development of great products that look good, and leaves the world a better place. Lessen your ecological footprint and choose Gap for Good products like the Women’s Vintage V-Neck Tee made with 100-percent cotton that feels like your favorite worn-in shirt. These tees are garment-dyed and washed with a special technique for incredible softness and true color. Pair it with the Sculpt True Skinny made with premium stretch 1969 denim and smart denim wash techniques. For men who value comfort and style, feel the quality of sustainable cotton as you slip into the Slim Vintage Wash Stretch Khaki pants that come in five colors: from the classic Palomino Brown to the more edgy Pinot Noir.