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Cotton Helps Insulate Communities the Green Way

Posted by By Shethir Riva, AMS Cotton and Tobacco Programs Research and Promotion Branch Chief in Technology
Sep 19, 2011

Denim jeans are versatile because you can wear them for almost any occasion, but there are even more ways they can be used outside of your wardrobe.

Cotton. From Blue to Green® transforms used jeans into UltraTouch ™ Denim Insulation for communities in need. This amazing project uses an environmentally responsible process to help jump start rebuilding communities.  The program has partnered with many organizations, including Habitat for Humanity affiliates, to install home insulation for victims of disasters such as Hurricane Katrina, and for those needing help to finish their homes.  They also offer grants to improve community buildings and partner with college and university campuses to host denim collection drives.

Started by Cotton Incorporated in 2006, the program partners with Bonded Logic Inc., the manufacturer of UltraTouch Denim Insulation.  Cotton Incorporated is a research and marketing company used by the Cotton Board to promote the value of cotton.  The USDA’s Agricultural Marketing Service (AMS) provides oversight of the Cotton Board, one of several research and promotion programs that support domestic agricultural industries.

When it comes to green initiatives involving cotton, the Cotton. From Blue to Green® program is just the tip of the iceberg.  Paintable wall coverings with a sleek decorative look and superior sound insulation have been made out of cotton byproducts.  Cotton byproducts also have been used to make packaging materials that are more eco-friendly than the traditional packing material.

The next time you are going to throw away a pair of jeans, remember Cotton. From Blue to Green® and think about how your jeans can help someone have a more comfortable home. Find out how you can donate denim jeans and make a difference in people’s lives.

Volunteers prepare to install eco-friendly insulation in a Habitat for Humanity home.
Volunteers prepare to install eco-friendly insulation in a Habitat for Humanity home.
Category/Topic: Technology