Sustainability & Corporate Social Responsibility
Far too often the term sustainability creates confusion when it is linked to fashion. What sustainability really means is unclear, so that many consumers do not know what it means when a company claims to be ” sustainable ”.
One thing is certain: our current consumption patterns are changing. Because of this evolution more and more consumers dare to ask themselves what the story is behind a piece of clothing that they buy.
We must therefore realize that it is “difficult to completely transform the textile industry, which has been working in the same way since its creation”. An important part of sustainability is producing in moderation, and currently these large companies do not intend to reduce their production. The opposite seems to be the case: they always talk about increasing their market share, opening new stores, producing more … And that does not always fit within the values and principles of sustainable fashion.
Despite the changes that are taking place, we still have a long way to go before there will be a completely sustainable and ethical working method for large textile companies. It means that companies must adjust their business philosophy and make it more human.
Within the sustainability in the fashion industry, the consumer plays an very important role: they can use their buying behavior to ensure that sustainability in fashion becomes the norm, or that the opposite happens. That is why it is essential that consumers are informed and aware, and make choices that they feel good about and that are consistent with their principles and values. Because in the end it is not so much about buying a durable piece of clothing, but it is much more important to choose a different, responsible way of buying.
We believe in the power of companies and brands to contribute to a sustainable and fair world. Companies play a key role in achieving resilient and happy people (people), a rich nature (planet) and a healthy economy (profit). But companies can not do that alone. Governments, knowledge institutes, NGOs and trade unions are also crucial for realizing a change to a new economy.
One of our business goals is to inspire, connect and accelerate as many companies and organizations as possible towards climate-neutral, circular and corporate social responsibility (CSR) business models with strong and stable business results.