In a society increasingly concerned about the conservation of the planet, the use and optimization of natural resources are becoming one of the most relevant issues in all industries. Especially in the fashion sector, consumers are increasingly demanding sustainable garments.
According to data from the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe for Europe, 70% of the fashion industry's total carbon dioxide emissions come from textile production, largely due to the use of synthetic fibers from petroleum, such as polyester, and the high water consumption of crops such as cotton, for example, which is why innovations in raw materials are constantly being made around the world.
Following the invasion of Ukraine, textile manufacturers now face new challenges that put pressure on already depleted capital flows, from the energy crisis to the price of materials and structural changes in international supply. After two years of a health crisis, textile and apparel manufacturers expected a better year in 2022.
Moreover, while the pandemic had almost completely paralyzed the textile-garment sectors worldwide, the energy crisis is centered in Europe, accentuating the price gap with other potential production zones. In the absence of sufficient public support despite desires for industrial sovereignty, industrial representatives believe that the scenario of a new wave of massive offshoring of production must be addressed.
What are the Challenges the Industry Faces in 2023?
The sustainability challenges for the fashion industry are only comparable to those of the fossil fuel sector, since it is the second most polluting industry in the world, according to the UN Conference on Trade and Development (UNCTAD).
To address this problem, the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, in its report A New Textiles Economy, proposed implementing a circular production model. It proposes that companies cease all use of hazardous substances in production and reduce the use of materials that give off microfibers, increase the durability of clothing to reduce early obsolescence and accelerated the replacement of garments, and radically improve recycling.
It’s expected that in order to comply with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), more and more textiles and fabrics will be used that generate a lower carbon footprint, turning their backs on garments and clothing made from materials derived from petroleum, polyester, nylon, acrylic or that generate high water consumption and a wide expansion of pesticides.
In the case of Colombia and Latin America, there are great expectations for the growth of hemp textiles because they are a surplus of medical cannabis crops, and because, among others, hemp needs much less water and fewer pesticides for its production compared to, for example, with materials such as cotton. According to Technavio's most recent report, it is expected that by 2026 the global hemp fiber market will reach USD 4.28 billion, a market in which Colombia is just beginning to participate.
How Demand-Driven Fashion Could Help to Clean up the Industry
In the face of regulatory and consumer momentum, reducing the impact on the environment and moving towards a more sustainable model pose challenges and opportunities for the textile industry in 2023.
The "made-to-order" model is a production system in which only what has been ordered in advance is produced, based on a small number of orders, eliminating the production of excess stock, and which has been in operation for some time now, with retail giants such as Nike, on its "Nike by You" platform.
If brands can apply the Cradle to Cradle principles, the concept in which waste does not exist as all waste is recoverable, garments and other products can be returned to the product life cycle, in addition to sourcing its recycled materials from distinguished certifications such as the Global Recycled Standard.
Transparency is Becoming a Necessity
The entire industry is currently at a crossroads, as it becomes increasingly vital that we transform the way we produce and consume clothing. As more companies display their carbon-neutral goals on corporate websites, the concern for the environment is becoming palpable.
The internet is flooded with thousands of published news articles and web presentations surrounding sustainability and the demand for more transparent supply chains.
Major key players within the industry beginning to achieve progressive goals, however, many of which are playing on the consumers’ demands and environmental demands to generate brand publicity to drive sales, as well as an overall more positive brand image.