An OECD closed discussion on due diligence is said to have highlighted the growing recognition of responsible purchasing practices as a cornerstone for sustainable outcomes in the industry. Credit: Shutterstock.

During a closed discussion at the 10th OECD Forum on Due Diligence in the Garment and Footwear Sector in Paris, hosted by the Sustainable Terms of Trade Initiative (STTI) and the OECD, stakeholders discussed the intersection of legislation and responsible business conduct in the apparel industry.

STTI explained the session highlighted practical tools to support better purchasing practices, including due diligence aligned contracts.

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However, it also noted that EU politicians’ failure to pass the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive sends a message to apparel manufacturers that there is not sufficient political interest in such a balanced approach.

The STTI said: “This adds a definite touch of hypocrisy to the barrage of demands placed on them, particularly by European environmental legislation.”

The STTI believes there is now only a very small window of opportunity for the law to pass before the European elections, and added that the STTI is also extremely disappointed in this development.

The STTI stated: “None of the stakeholders present in Paris would dispute the importance of legislation as part of a smart mix of measures needed to raise the bar on purchasing practices. Provided it is implemented well, CSDDD legislation is good for brands, good for apparel manufacturers and good for workers.”

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The STTI pointed out that based on over a decade of work creating a global system of human rights due diligence, the proposed CSDDD legislation offers a balanced approach to support a transition to a more sustainable industry.

The STTI believes the session made it clear that corporate sustainability due diligence is “already deeply embedded in parts of the industry”.

Plus, some existing national legislation, brands, retailers, manufacturers, multi-stakeholder initiatives and NGOs are actively applying due diligence principles and building better purchasing practices that enable more sustainable supply chains.

The STTI added: “Together with its supply chain partners, the Sustainable Terms of Trade Initiative will continue to drive the improvement of purchasing practices in the apparel and textile industry.”

The Ethical Trading Initiative (ETI) shared its five key takeaways from the recent OECD forum after orchestrating five side sessions and moderating a forum session on living wages.