The sustainable fashion approach introduced in late 1980s and early 1990s by famous companies named Patagonia and ESPRIT. Although the focus of both companies regarding sustainability is different yet the motive was just to save environment. Today, the fashion world is emphasizing on one word which is “transparency”. Each and every big brand is focusing on the same and trying to transform its processes accordingly. As per the recent research, more than 100 big fashion brands which belong to 42 companies are now publishing their supplier’s list. The brand’s commitment towards transparency in last 18 months is really substantial. Before discussing further that who is following the transparency standard or not. First we should know this thing what is the actually meaning of transparency in textile and apparel sector.

In order to have a better control on environmental friendly manufacturing standards that whether it is completely following or not. The transparency of each and every steps is really essential. And for the sake of this, all the manufacturing concern needs to show their complete supplier list from where they are sourcing product materials. Not only this, they will have to show the method through which the whole shipment transit from manufacturing concern to store. In-short, the transparency of each and every step of product from order placement till product shelfing at POS is required.

Environment Friendly Initiatives:

The revolutionary trend noticed by 40 famous fashion brands in 2016. And out of which, 05 brands publicize their manufacturers list and 02 of them also publicize their fabric, yarn suppliers. Not only this, these 106 brands have already publicized some of their production or processing facilities. Here is a slight overview on the efforts of the giants towards environment sustainability:

Tesco:

The UK’s largest retailer Tesco has already released its complete supplier’s list. Not only this, they are also working really hard to eliminate all the hazardous chemicals from its brand named F&F. They are trying their level best to conform and strictly follow the “Greenpeace” campaign for better environment.

Marks & Spencer:

The UK famous brand and retailer launch a system which enables their products to conform the required sustainability process. And this system will be fully operational till 2019 which permits their clients to identify their sustainable products easily. And till 2025, they have plan to publicize their product sustainability report for their clients and general public.

ASOS:

The British brand ASOS management is focusing on water pollution as well as recycling issue. As per company’s target, they will reduce carbon, water and waste footprint of ASOS clothing by 2020. For water and recycling issue, they are closely working with their suppliers, organizing ethical programs and establishing ethical trade partnerships. Along with that, they are among those signatories (Bestseller, Eileen Fisher and Marks & Spencer) who sign a public pledge which explain a circular strategy for setting sustainability targets for 2020.

Wrangler:

An American fashion brand’s effort towards environment sustainability is tremendous. After saving 03 billion liters water from denim washing, now they will support US farmers through pilot program. As per their announcement in Detroit conference, this program will support the farmers to improve the sustainable growing exercises.

Levi & Strauss:

The Levi’s is making infinite efforts towards sustainability of natural resources. The co.’s recent investment of US$ 350,000 shows the management dedication and commitment towards sustainable apparel industry. They work extensively with their collaborators on different sustainable apparel industry projects. And these projects include, waste-water treatment solution, less water consuming products and expanding the natural indigo dyeing facility.

VF Corporation:

VF Corporation, a global leader in branded lifestyle apparel, footwear and accessories, recently released its Animal Derived Materials (ADM) policy. As per the policy, its brands (Lee, The North Face and Timberland) will no longer use fur, angora or exotic leather in their products. As per Letitia Webster, VF’s Vice President of Global Corporate Sustainability, “VF believes that all animals within the global commercial supply chain should be treated with care and respect,” As per co.’s recent partnership with Humane Society International that outlines which animal materials are prohibited. It also set a formal guideline for the procurement and use of approved materials by the company’s brands and global supply chain partners.

Aldi, Lidle & Others:

The recent research study by “Greenpeace” verified the commitment of German chain stores towards hazardous chemical free environment. As per the report, the big chain stores, Aldi, Lidl, Rewe, Penny, Kaufland, and Tchibo are meeting their targets for treating and removing the potentially hazardous chemicals. And as per “Greenpeace”, there is still lot of work yet to be done for this cause.

C&A:

The global famous retailer C&A already step up into transparency campaign. It has already disclosed the detail of its +2000 manufacturing suppliers which are located in more than 40 countries. This information includes factory’s name (tier1 & tier2 production units), addresses, number of workers and main product category. This new report is now online for its customers and general public. This is an enormous step of fashion giant towards transparency and sustainability cause.

Hugo Boss:

As per ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) announcement, April 26, 2017, seven new entries into its program, including premium fashion brand Hugo Boss. Hugo Boss and the other new six entries, commit to work collaboratively on the development and implementation of ZDHC tools. And these include: a Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL), Chemical Guidance Sheets and Wastewater Guidelines. Hugo Boss enters ZDHC as signatory brand contributor. So, as per its membership, the company is forecasting a great control on production/supply chain process for betterment of environment.

Bestseller:

The Danish apparel retailer is also the part of sustainable textile community which publicizes their supplier information to general public. As per company, more than 35% of their cotton comes from more sustainable sources. And they continuously work to integrate regenerated or responsibly sourced fibers in their products. This August, 2017, they are partnering with UNLEASH to bring together 1,000 global talents to solve the world’s most pressing problems. The hiring of 11 talents which represents Bestseller at UNLEASH, will find out more ways that how Bestseller can play role in global issues.

Filippa K:

Swedish apparel brand Filippa K is teaming up new two year project with Mistra Future Fashion. As per the project, they will research, develop and test new designs for 100% circular fashion garments. This project is leading by Professor Rebecca Earley and Dr Kate Goldsworthy of University of the Arts London. The aim of the initiative is to help consumers to become more sustainable about fashion. “We want to be able to enjoy fashion and update our wardrobes in a conscious way,” said Elin Larsson, sustainability director Filippa K.

Closing Thoughts:

The main motive behind above efforts and targets is just to clean the environment from toxic and hazardous chemicals. And try to clean the water and our planet from the pollution of manufacturing concern as well as supply chain. The transparency in processes is a best approach through which we can move forward towards green world. And everyone should realize his/her role for this sacred purpose. As this goal can only achieve if we join hands together against this massive issue.

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