February 25, 2011 - The GoodGuide has named Levi Strauss & Co as the Top Jeans Brand.  
 
The GoodGuide ratings assess the environmental and social performance of 118 apparel brands.
 
On a ten-point scale, Levi’s received a 7.4. The brand Prana was listed as the next highest, with a score of 6.3—followed by H&M (6.1), Banana Republic (6.1), and Old Navy (6.1).
 
Bottom ranked brands include Polo, RLX, American Living, Ralph Lauren, and Hollister. Each of these scored 3.7.
 
The environmental assessment is based on evaluating sustainable product design, green production practices, and the brand’s commitment to transparency.
 
The social assessment is based on evaluating fair pay for workers (specifically whether the brand has a meaningful policy to support living wages), whether the company audits working conditions, commitment to transparency, and responsible purchasing practices.
 
Some of the initiatives that led to Levi’s top ranking include its Water<Less™ manufacturing process, the “E-valuate” life-cycle assessment program, participation in the Better Cotton Initiative, and leadership on product and supply-chain transparency.
 
On the social front, Levi’s scores well. However, the area where Levi’s has the most room for improvement is on the issue of the living wage, according to a guest post by GoodGuide Co-Founder Dara O’Rourke on the Levi’s blog.

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