It takes about 1,800 gallons of water to make one pair of jeans. On top of this water waste, distributing clothing takes massive amounts of fuel and packaging, and thousands of factory workers and farmers die every year due to pesticides or poor working conditions. The average sewer, for example, makes just 45 cents for each pair of jeans that they make. Considering how much the average pair of jeans costs, such a low wage for sewers is baffling.
Thankfully, many companies are emerging, making sustainable, environmentally conscious and ethically produced products. When shopping this holiday season, check out these trail blazers. Each company on this list is dedicated to improving the lives or their employees, and their environments.
1. Eco Tools

Eco Tools is an environmentally-friendly and cruelty-free beauty and hair brush company. All of their products are vegan, made from synthetic fibers, recycled aluminum and plastic, and renewable bamboo. Their packaging is made from recycled materials and can be recycled further. Their employees are protected by fair labor practices, like overtime pay and fair wages. Plus, Eco Tools donated $100,000 last year to Glamour’s The Girl Project empowering and encouraging women to progress. Shop them here.
2. People Tree
3. Fairphone
4. Art & Eden
5. Fortress of Inca
6. Kusaga Athletic
It might take a little extra effort, but being a more conscious consumer can have a huge impact on the people, communities and habitats across the globe that are impacted by the textile industry.