Trade groups representing the American fashion industry are intensifying their advocacy efforts in response to government policies focused on sustainability.
Recently, the AAFA, CFDA, and other relevant organizations expressed their support for a contentious proposal by California's state legislators, which mandates businesses to disclose their emissions contributing to global warming.
The Fashion Industry's Stance
• Trade groups including the American Apparel & Footwear Association and the Council of Fashion Designers of America are endorsing the bill, driven by amendments introduced earlier this year to grant companies more time before they are required to disclose supply-chain emissions.
• The AAFA has previously expressed support for increased environmental disclosure but advocated for a gradual approach to regulation implementation to allow companies ample time to amass requisite data.
• Despite the proliferation of climate commitments made by fashion brands recently, numerous major players still abstain from reporting their environmental impact. Significance
Given California's substantial economy, the state's decisions wield considerable influence.
While impending European regulations will mandate greater climate impact reporting from fashion brands, the passing of California's bill would reinforce endeavors to establish consistent environmental reporting standards.
Future Steps
Earlier this year, AAFA, CFDA, and associated entities released a manifesto outlining plans for increased policy involvement concerning sustainability issues. While welcoming regulations promoting socially and environmentally responsible operations, the manifesto emphasized the necessity for practical, effective, and feasible measures.
Critics, however, are concerned that this perspective could be manipulated to delay swift action. Although the fashion industry's support for California's bill is commendable, it's essential to recognize that disclosure is just the initial phase.
