Fashion Industry Impact
The fashion industry's environmental impact is a pressing issue that has gained significant attention. Not without a reason. It is responsible for approximately 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, a number that is projected to increase in the future (1). The production of clothing also contributes to water scarcity and pollution. The dyeing process, in particular, requires substantial amounts of water and energy, resulting in significant water and air pollution. This pollution not only contributes to climate change but also harms aquatic life and poses risks to the health of workers involved in the dyeing process. In fact, fabric dyeing alone is responsible for 17 to 20 per cent of global industrial water pollution (2).
One of the challenges exacerbating this issue is the lack of traceability and transparency in the fashion industry. Companies often do not trace their environmental impact beyond their first-tier suppliers, which only account for 6% of the total emissions during the production process (3). Additionally, the complex and fragmented nature of the supply chain makes it difficult for companies to have comprehensive insights beyond their first-tier suppliers. This lack of control over the entire supply chain can lead to increased environmental impact and social issues. Moreover, by not sharing data on emissions, companies become less accountable for their actions and stakeholders have less information, which can result in increased greenwashing (3).
Sustainable trends
However, there are positive developments in the industry as well. Many companies, including well-known brands like Patagonia, Ganni, Stella McCartney, and Gucci, are taking concrete steps to reduce their environmental impact.
Consumers are also demanding more transparency to make conscious shopping decisions, with more than half of millennials expressing a desire for information about the production journey of the products they buy (4). This consumer sentiment is reflected in campaigns like #whomademyclothes. Legislative bodies are also increasing pressure on fashion companies to enhance their transparency levels.
Chromologics as a new supplier of sustainable dyes
To drive change in the industry, fashion companies need to transform their existing business models and explore technological solutions that can help reduce their environmental impact. This includes partnering with suppliers committed to sustainable production processes, utilizing natural materials, and sharing impact data. Startups like Chromologics are contributing to these efforts.
Chromologics offers a sustainable alternative to traditional synthetic dyes with their natural color, Sustainly.Red. The production process for Sustainly.Red requires minimal natural resources and allows for vibrant colors with low dosages. Chromologics is dedicated to assessing its environmental impact as a sustainable brand.
Sustainly.Red has been tested in various material applications, such as wool and cotton, and has demonstrated superior performance in terms of washing, rubbing, and perspiration fastness. It can be seamlessly integrated into standard color procedures, including dyeing, printing, and spinning, making it easy to incorporate into current production methods.
Chromologics is actively continuing the testing of Sustainly.Red and welcomes collaboration. If you are interested in testing our color contact us for possibilities.
Photos showing Sustainly.Red performance in different applications
Sources and further readings suggestions: (1) https://www.bbc.com/news/science-environment-60382624
(2) https://www.theguardian.com/sustainable-business/water-scarcity-fashion-industry
(3) https://www.fashionrevolution.org/about/transparency/
(4) https://supplychaindigital.com/sustainability/report-shows-shoppers-want-transparency-supply-chain
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