The British Fashion Council (BFC) has joined forces with the UK Fashion & Textiles Association (UKFT) and UK Research & Innovation (UKRI) to introduce an innovative initiative known as the Circular Fashion Innovation Network (CFIN). The primary objective of this collaborative partnership is to launch a comprehensive program aimed at transforming the fashion and textile industry in the UK over the course of two years, with a specific focus on circularity and innovation.
With an estimated worth of £29 billion, the fashion industry plays a crucial role in the UK economy. However, it has come to attention that the UK surpasses all other European countries in terms of new clothing consumption. This has resulted in substantial levels of waste and limited utilization of garments, necessitating prompt and sustainable action.
Under the umbrella of the Institute of Positive Fashion (IPF), CFIN will bring together a diverse range of stakeholders such as industry professionals, innovators, investors, academics, and non-governmental organizations (NGOs). By doing so, the network strives to expedite the UK’s transition to becoming a frontrunner in the circular fashion economy through a strategic roadmap driven by actionable steps.
The advisory board of CFIN comprises representatives from luxury, premium, high street, supermarket, and value-led businesses, as well as individuals from UKRI, academia, and NGOs. Notable members include Caroline Rush, CEO of BFC, Adam Mansell, CEO of UKFT, representatives from Chanel and Sainsbury’s, Helen Connolly, CEO of New Look, Helen Dickinson, CEO of The British Retail Consortium, and Richard Price, M&S’s MD of Clothing & Home. The board’s primary focus is to shape the vision of the network, receive updates from working groups, and address scalability throughout the UK.
Furthermore, CFIN will play a pivotal role in UKRI’s £15 million circular fashion program, working towards promoting positive change within the fashion industry. The network will collaborate with various research bodies and provide updates on the program to academic institutions through the BFC’s Colleges Council and UKFT Education Partner Network.
The launch of the Circular Fashion Innovation Network signifies a significant step towards promoting sustainability and circularity within the UK fashion and textile industry. By bringing together key stakeholders and encouraging collaboration, this partnership strives to drive meaningful change and establish the UK as a leader in circular fashion. Through collective efforts, the industry aspires to transition towards a more sustainable and responsible future.
Useful links:
1. Circular Fashion Innovation Network – British Fashion Council
2. Circular Economy Centres – UK Research & Innovation
