Fashion without the use of Chemicals, is that possible?
Endless harmfull chemicals are used and worn in the fashion industry and their supply chain daily
Fertilizers and pesticides during cultivation
In the cultivation of natural fibres such as cotton, chemicals such as fertilizers and pesticides are used on a large scale. These substances can lead to soil degradation, water pollution and damage to wildlife and human health, as they are toxic.
Spinning, dyeing & washing
In the production process, spinning, dyeing, and washing of textiles involve the use of numerous chemicals, including dyes, solvents, and finishing agents. These chemicals can cause significant environmental pollution, contaminating water bodies and posing health risks to workers and nearby communities.
During the use and through regular washing
Even after purchase, clothing can continue to release harmful chemicals during regular washing. Microplastics and residual chemicals can leach into water systems, impacting aquatic life and contributing to long-term ecological damage.
let´s face the facts
8 Chemicals that are used in the fashion supply chain
According to the European Textile Labeling Regulation, labels are not obliged to inform consumers about the chemicals used in production that may be harmful to themselves or the environment. However, a large number of harmful chemicals are used in production. Here is a small selection of the chemicals used in the supply chain:
Campaign AA – Detoxdenim
Introducing the brand behind the AA
Armedangels is a cologne based fashion brand with focus on sustainable fashion. Their product range goes from a male and female line, RTW + accessories, wide range of jeans, different special – and capsule collections like “About the A” or collaboration with the FC Köln. All of their collections are based on a strong focus on timeless cuts and colours.
DetoxDenim
Since 2018 and still running with the campaign: “touch nothing toxic. detoxdenim”, which focuses on toxic-free production. This includes organic cotton and recycled cotton, avoiding harmful chemicals and educating consumers about the chemicals widely used in the fashion industry.
Questions to Armedangels:
Interview with
Raisa Tamer
The aim of our DetoxDenim campaign is to provide a more sustainable and eco-friendly alternative to a wide customer audience in the fashion industry, specifically in denim production. We strive to eliminate harmful chemicals and pesticides from our production process, ensuring that our products are not only environmentally friendlier but also safer for the wearer’s health. By focusing on sustainability, we hope to encourage more conscious consumer behavior and contribute to a healthier planet.
We have removed a range of harmful chemicals, including azo dyes, phthalates, PFCs, chlorine, and potassium permanganate. Instead, we use non-toxic dyes and organic enzymes. For distressing denim, we use laser and ozone technologies, which reduce the need for water and harmful chemicals. Additionally, we use certified organic cotton that meets GOTS standards, avoiding synthetic pesticides entirely.
We maintain strict oversight of our supply chain through regular audits and third-party certifications (Fair Wear Foundation). Our suppliers must adhere to a list of banned substances aligned with GOTS standards. We also require our suppliers to implement effective wastewater management systems. Frequent inspections and comprehensive traceability systems help us ensure compliance with our stringent environmental and social criteria.
Implementing the DetoxDenim initiative posed several challenges, particularly in identifying and adopting suitable alternatives to traditional chemicals that maintain our high product standards. Collaborating with suppliers to ensure they meet our new environmental criteria required substantial effort, including training and support. Overhauling established production processes to integrate more sustainable practices also demanded investment in new technologies and methods.
Our DetoxDenim initiative has considerably reduced water consumption by employing water-saving technologies like closed-loop systems and waterless dyeing methods. Advanced water treatment processes are in place to purify water before it is discharged, ensuring minimal environmental impact. By using techniques like laser and ozone bleaching, we further decrease the reliance on water and harmful chemicals in our production process.
We believe the fashion industry can transition to less environmentally harming production methods, but it requires collective action. Key steps include investing in sustainable technologies, establishing and enforcing stricter regulatory standards, increasing transparency in supply chains, and raising consumer awareness about sustainable fashion. Collaboration across the industry, from manufacturers to consumers, is essential to drive this transformation effectively.
To enhance the sustainability of our products, we plan to increase our use of recycled and upcycled materials, improve our packaging, and continue investing in research and development for more sustainable innovations. Innovation is central to our strategy, enabling us to discover and implement new methods and materials that further reduce our environmental impact while maintaining high quality and aesthetic standards. Our commitment to continuous improvement ensures we remain at the forefront of sustainable fashion.