The fashion sector is under pressure to reduce its carbon footprint and adapt to new regulations as emissions are projected to rise sharply by 2030.
The fashion industry is at a critical juncture as it grapples with the urgent need for sustainability amid growing environmental concerns. According to a recent report by the United Nations, the fashion sector accounts for approximately 2% to 8% of global greenhouse gas emissions, with a staggering 959 million metric tonnes of CO2 equivalents emitted in the previous year. This figure is projected to exceed 1.2 billion metric tonnes by 2030 unless decisive measures are taken to mitigate emissions.
As the third-largest clothing market globally, following the United States and China, the United Kingdom plays a pivotal role in this context. In 2023, UK consumers spent $75.6 billion (£61.8 billion) on clothing, an increase from $75.3 billion (£61.6 billion) in 2022. As such, the responsibility rests heavily on fashion retailers, brands, and suppliers to drive significant changes towards a more sustainable model.
Faced with rising costs and a cautious consumer spending environment, industry stakeholders are placing sustainability at the forefront of their business strategies. However, there is concern that competing priorities could jeopardize these efforts. In the March issue of Drapers, the focus is on how businesses are addressing the implications of new sustainability regulations, including compliance with the upcoming European Union-wide Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), and the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR).
Retailers must enhance their supply chain traceability and data collection capabilities. Similar regulations are anticipated in the UK, aimed at creating a more equitable competitive landscape with the EU. While some see potential benefits in improved transparency and accountability, there is a strong call for increased guidance and support from the government as businesses adapt.
The logistics of freight and supply chain management remain a significant challenge in the industry’s quest to lower its carbon footprint. Shipping methods are a major factor, with emissions varying widely based on transport modes; shipping may produce 10-40 grams of carbon per metric tonne per kilometer, while air freight can reach 500 grams. Recent disruptions caused by attacks on vessels in the Red Sea by Houthi rebels have compelled numerous fashion retailers, including Matalan, Boohoo Group, Asos, and Shoe Zone, to shift to longer sea routes or costly air freight options.
Notably, retailers such as John Lewis, Primark, and Marks & Spencer are exploring investments in greener fuels for their transportation fleets, while sustainable aviation fuel (SAF) emerges as a promising solution for necessary air shipments.
These crucial topics along with others, including circular business models and material innovation, will be prominently addressed at the upcoming Drapers Conscious Fashion Summit and Awards set to take place at Hilton London Bankside on March 12. This event is expected to attract a significant audience, with only a limited number of tickets remaining.
Additionally, Drapers Conscious Fashion Week will run from March 10 to 14, featuring comprehensive analyses, insights from industry leaders, and case studies on the strides being made in sustainable fashion practices across various platforms. Subscribers to Drapers’ newsletters will receive continuous updates and information directly.
Source: Noah Wire Services
