On 14 May 2019, five leading apparel organisations have partnered to call on existing and forthcoming EU policymakers to rethink tools to establish a circular fashion system.
The industry manifesto goal is to foster the collaboration between industry and policymakers to set the infrastructure to support circular system within the fashion and textile industry. Establishing framework and clear standards for all business sizes which is based on a global approach is key issue.
Joint manifesto was signed by EURATEX (European Apparel and Textile Confederation), Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI), Global Fashion Agenda (GFA), International Apparel Federation (IAF) and Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC).
Eva Kruse, CEO and President, Global Fashion Agenda, says, “This manifesto is extremely significant as it is the first time so many influential organisations in the fashion industry have come together to work with policymakers on a unified approach to circularity. […]”
Mauro Scalia, Director of Sustainable Businesses, EURATEX, says, “We believe joint endeavours can win global challenges. The Manifesto shows that finding new ways for unprecedented coordination is possible.”
Jérome Pero, Secretary General, FESI, states, “Circularity has become a key issue in all aspects of daily life. However, the current schemes in place do not sufficiently support a scaled circular economy system. To drive change, it is essential that all actors work together to make it happen. That’s why I believe this manifesto is a perfect, timely call to unite everyone.”
Matthijs Crietee, Secretary General, IAF, says, “The International Apparel Federation (IAF) firmly supports the manifesto as it clearly recognises the importance of a truly global approach to circularity. So, with a consortium that is both European and global, from the outset the necessary connections between the European actions and those emerging in the rest of the world can be made. IAF will actively use its worldwide network to help create the connections for a global approach to circular fashion”
Baptiste Carrière-Pradal, Vice President, SAC, emphasises, “To transform the apparel industry’s sustainability performance, brands, retailers and manufacturers must align on assessing impacts with a common framework. Through this European collaboration we can support legislation that promotes lasting industry improvements globally.”
Link to the manifesto
