ENVIRONMENTAL AND SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY IN TEXTILES: TRANSPARENCY
If we don’t have transparency and traceability, we won’t know – and can’t track - where our clothes have come from, where they were made, by whom, and from what raw materials.
It has not been unknown in the textile supply chain for unscrupulous suppliers to exploit workers, use harmful chemicals in the fabrics, and produce goods in a way which harms the environment as well as workers and consumers.
And as production and consumption of clothing increases, it is essential that any unethical practice is exposed and eliminated – which is why we need transparency.
Who cares?
Greenpeace asserts that transparency is key. The Fashion Revolution’s Transparency Index ranks 150 fashion brands based on their transparency, and states that brands must provide transparency about wages, workplace safety, environmental policy, the use of polyester and textile recycling. It also reminds consumers to demand high quality, durable clothes from reputable brands instead of buying cheap throw-away fashion.
Technology
Thankfully, as production and consumption has increased, so too have developments in technology which have been designed to enable transparency and traceability, such as:
- Blockchain; and
- RFID.
Certifications and standards
In addition to technology, certifications and standards provide independent verification that a factory or manufacturer has a certain level of expertise and compliance in relation to work conditions, garment quality, environmental impacts and human rights.
Labelling
Consumers can trace the safety and ethical credentials of their clothing via clear labelling. For example, the MADE IN GREEN by OEKO-TEX® verifies that a garment has been tested for harmful substances, and guarantees that the product has been manufactured using sustainable processes under socially responsible working conditions.
And mobile applications, such as Good on You, rate the brands to help consumers make informed choices about the clothing they were. How transparent are your clothes?!
With over 100 years’ experience, Shirley® provides unrivalled and expert reassurance through its technical services and offers a comprehensive range of independent testing services, including OEKO-TEX® certification. Should you wish to contact us, please email enquiries@shirley.co.uk