Close up of sandblasted jeans, photo courtesy Target.

I am pleased to report that Target has joined the cadre of retailers who are boycotting sandblasted jeans.  As previously reported on this blog, sandblasted jeans are killing the workers who inhale the silica which is applied in a pressurized form to create the worn look so desired by today’s consumers.  When I was young we just wore our jeans to death to achieve this finish which is preferable to wearing a worker to death to attain the same look.

Levi Strauss & Company was one of the first brands to prohibit the use of sandblasting in their jean production.  David Love, SVP & Chief Supply Chain Officer, Levi Strauss & Co.  says, “Factories that do not rigorously enforce proper health and safety standards for sandblasting put unsuspecting workers at risk. This is a serious industry concern. The best way we can help ensure no worker – in any garment factory – faces this risk is to move to end sandblasting. We hope Target’s decision will encourage other companies to follow.”  Please watch the video below where Mr. Love reflects on the ban on its one year anniversary and offers suggestions to ensure the products you purchase are produced following ethical standards.

I salute Target for recognizing the dire consequences of this practice.

Thanks for reading and please let me know what you think.

Fairwear until next time…..