Lectra Observatory's white paper 'Sustainable Fashion: what strategies and technologies?' revealed that while global garment production doubled between 2000 and 2014, the lifespan of clothing fell by a third. This surge in production has contributed significantly to pollution with the fashion industry reportedly responsible for 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions.
To address social, environmental and economic challenges, the report urged the fashion industry to focus on reducing waste, improving material traceability, and optimising product marketing while limiting unsold inventory.
It emphasised the role of technology in this transformation, noting that technological advancements can enhance information availability, reduce waste, optimise resources, ensure product traceability, and better meet consumer needs.
The report also suggested rethinking industry terminology to promote more responsible behaviours through the implementation of new laws, informed consumer choices, and investments aimed at supporting industrial recycling and circular economy initiatives.
"The fashion industry is facing some major upheavals. Consumers are increasingly concerned about buying ethical and sustainable products, while brands are subject to numerous and complex environmental regulations, particularly regarding traceability," explained Maria Modroño, chief marketing and communications officer at Lectra. "With this white paper, we wanted to give a picture of the major challenges facing the fashion industry today, to understand the commercial strategies that brands are adopting to address these challenges, and to identify technological solutions that can reconcile sustainability, responsibility, profitability and growth."
According to the report, the goal is clear: to build a future where the textile industry can prosper without compromising the planet's resources or workers' wellbeing.
Recently, Lectra announced a strategic partnership with Singapore-based AI company Six Atomic to leverage artificial intelligence (AI) in transforming product design and development in the fashion industry.
