Introduction
The conversation around sustainability in fashion has been growing in recent years, but progress has been slow. A recent study by Stand.Earth found that only one out of ten major brands, all of which have signed up to the United Nations Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, is on track to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030, in line with the Paris Agreement's 1.5°C limit. This lack of progress highlights the need for greater accountability from brands and a crackdown on greenwashing.
Retailers Embracing Rental
In response to the growing demand for second-hand fashion, many major retailers have integrated resale onto their websites. Now, rental is becoming the next trend, with retailers like Selfridges, MatchesFashion, and Harrods offering customers the opportunity to loan luxury pieces. This circular business model is expected to continue growing, with rental fashion becoming a standard offering for serious brands and multi-brand retailers in the next five years.
Recycling Technologies Scaling Up
Recycling has been a challenge for the fashion industry, as less than 1% of garments are currently turned into new clothes again. However, innovators are working to change this. Swedish company Renewcell, for example, has developed a recycled fiber called Circulose, which is made from 100% textile waste. In 2023, we can expect to see more brands investing in recycled cellulosic fibers and making progress towards fashion's circularity ambitions.
Moving Towards Regenerative Materials
In addition to reusing existing textiles, more brands are looking to adopt regenerative fibers. These materials are produced in a way that benefits ecosystems and improves biodiversity. Stella McCartney, for example, introduced regenerative cotton in her spring/summer 2023 collection. The fashion industry needs to move towards scaling these solutions and making regenerative materials the new norm.
A Greenwashing Crackdown
Greenwashing, the practice of overstating or not telling the full truth about the eco-credentials of products, is a significant issue in the fashion industry. To address this, new legislation is being introduced to crack down on brands that engage in greenwashing. The European Union is set to release a legislative proposal on green claims, and more actions against fashion brands can be expected. This crackdown will help ensure greater transparency and accountability in the industry.
Stronger Protection for Garment Workers
There is a growing push for stronger protections for garment workers within the fashion industry. The Garment Worker Protection Act in California came into effect in 2022, and the European Union has proposed human rights due diligence legislation. The proposed FABRIC Act in the US would provide greater protections for garment workers. Additionally, the International Accord for Health and Safety, originally implemented after the Rana Plaza disaster, has been extended to Pakistan. Brands need to take a leadership role in ensuring the safety and well-being of garment workers.
Addressing the Supply Chain
The fashion industry's supply chain is not only a major contributor to greenhouse gas emissions but is also impacted by climate change. Extreme weather events like droughts and floods can disrupt the supply chain. To create a more sustainable industry, fashion companies need to transform the way they work with their supply chain and create production systems that are in balance with nature. This includes preserving and benefiting ecosystems, communities, and individuals.
Conclusion
In 2023, the fashion industry has an opportunity to make significant progress towards sustainability. By embracing rental and recycling, adopting regenerative materials, cracking down on greenwashing, protecting garment workers, and addressing the supply chain, brands can move closer to a more sustainable and responsible future. It is crucial for the industry to prioritize accountability and transparency to meet the challenges of climate change and protect the well-being of workers.