Today, biostoning is the main process used in the denim finishing industry, a shift promoted by process economics, fashion and, to a lesser extent, environmental impact.

A life cycle assessment was performed on the three methods of reducing the indigo content and the three process steps specifically related to the production of stonewashed jeans: stone washing, wash off (removal of the stones), and wash (clean-up of the garment). Only these three steps were covered by the LCA.

The biostoning washing method scored best on eight out of ten environmental parameters. The "combined" washing method scored best for water toxicity because of higher emissions of phosphorus compounds into water from the biostoning washing method. The pumice washing process scored better under the heading "odor" mainly because of the ammonia, emissions from agriculture and from the production of ammonia for fertilizers used in the raw material production for cellulase fermentation.

A cost comparison based on environmental regulations or needs was also made for the three washing methods. The highest costs arise from wastewater treatment and were for the pumice method, the lowest were for biostoning. These cost differentials will increase if potential future standards for sustainable development are to be met.