There is probably no single piece of clothing that has ever been as popular –around the world — as blue jeans. What’s not to love – you can dress ‘em up, dress ‘em down. And best of all, they solve that most annoying of all first-thing-in-the-morning questions: “What’s clean enough to wear?”

In the U.S. we more than 500 million pairs of jeans– that means annual sales figures are over $13 billion ($13.4 billion in 2001, the last concrete figures I could find reported).

So just imagine how much we could reduce our collective carbon footprint if each of us handled our favorite fanny-covering in a greener fashion. It’s easy – try these tips:

1. Buy organic jeans from the start.

Ordinary cotton uses a lot of water and chemicals in the treatment process. Check out Levi’s eco-friendly line.

2. Look for hemp jeans:

This versatile plant – and don’t pretend you don’t know what I’m talking about – is ideal for jeans. Fewer pesticides, fewer chemicals, all good.

Check out these sources for hemp jeans: Hempest and Rawganique.

3. Repair your old jeans:

You know those rips look cool anyway. And for those in the wrong places, take out a needle and start stitching. Add your own design while you’re at it.

4. Wash sparingly.

Ok, if the jeans can stand up by themselves, it’s time to scrub. But really, until then, save some water.

5. Recycle the old when you buy the new:

Gained weight? Lost weight? Whatever – there is someone out there who will want the old ones. If they’re in good shape, try a vintage clothing shop. Otherwise, find a Salvation Army near you, or a Goodwill — they’re always ready to do their part in keeping us a little greener.

Photo credit: total health break throughs:

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