In an effort to reduce water use industry-wide, Levi Strauss & Co. invited 20 other competitors into their test kitchen where all their new products are developed. This open source method was part of Levi's Eureka Innovation Lab and their mission to use less water to create jeans. The iconic brand has spent almost a decade perfecting water-saving techniques in the denim production process and felt their discoveries were too important not to share.
There is increasing pressure for fashion companies to not only incorporate environmentally sustainable practices, but also be transparent and accountable to consumers. By valuing social consciousness, Levi's is clearly leading the charge. They also developed recycled plastic-made jeans as an eco-friendly initiative.
Water-Saving Jean Production
Levi's are Open Sourcing Denim Production to Save Water Use
Trend Themes
1. Water-saving Techniques - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop and implement new water-saving techniques in denim production to reduce environmental impact and meet consumer demands for sustainability.
2. Open Source Collaboration - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Collaborate with competitors and share knowledge and discoveries to collectively reduce water use in the fashion industry.
3. Eco-friendly Initiatives - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore and invest in eco-friendly materials and processes, such as using recycled plastics to create denim products.
Industry Implications
1. Fashion Industry - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Embrace sustainable practices and transparency, while finding creative ways to reduce water use in the production of clothing and accessories.
2. Textile Industry - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Develop and adopt water-saving techniques and technologies throughout the textile manufacturing process to minimize water waste and environmental impact.
3. Sustainable Manufacturing - Disruptive innovation opportunity: Explore and invest in sustainable manufacturing methods that prioritize water conservation and eco-friendly initiatives.