New recycled fibers and technologies are allowing the denim industry to become increasingly good at making old feel and look new. Lenzing is ramping up the amount of waste it’s recycling for Refibra—a request that’s coming directly from the denim market. In 2019, Lenzing will begin offering Refibra made with 10 per cent more post-industrial cotton, increasing the amount of waste recycled from 20 per cent to 30 per cent.

Lycra has made strides to improve performance of stretch technologies, and advance both their comfort and sustainability in denim. The company’s latest innovation, Lycra T400 with EcoMade technology, maintains the stretch, recovery and retention characteristics of Lycra T400 fiber but with a sustainable twist.

Lycra T400 with EcoMade comprises 68 per cent sustainable fibers. Fifty per cent of the fiber is made from recycled PET and 18 per cent made from plant-based materials. The fiber fits in nicely with brands that have 2020 sustainability goals to meet, and lives up to the performance standards of its popular predecessor.

Mills are also creating circular economies in their own production. Italian denim mill Berto has introduced Pianeta, a fabric made with 35 per cent cotton and 65 per cent cotton yarn regenerated from its own production waste.