A group of 25 European institutions have united to develop a collective strategy aimed at meeting the needs of the fashion industry, particularly in terms of sustainability. The goal of this collaboration is to expedite the transition of European fashion towards a more sustainable and creative future.
The initiative originated from the Fashion Pact signed by numerous international fashion entities during the 2019 G7 Summit in Biarritz. This agreement focused on environmental commitments to combat climate change, restore biodiversity, and preserve the oceans. In light of the pressing environmental and community issues facing the textile industry, the significance of these commitments has only grown in the wake of the global pandemic.
To address these challenges head-on, the 25 European institutions convened at the Frankfurt Summit in late March. The event was made possible through the support of Messe Frankfurt, the world leader in organizing textile trade fairs and exhibitions. It served as the platform for stakeholders to establish the European Fashion Alliance, an industrial coalition with the aim of promoting the transition of European fashion towards sustainability, innovation, and inclusivity. The main objective of this alliance is to outline a practical and actionable roadmap that addresses both immediate and long-term industry issues, such as sharing best practices, safeguarding biodiversity and communities, advocating for policy reforms, and setting target objectives.
The European fashion alliance was officially launched on June 21st and comprises federations, incubators, and associations from various European countries, including Estonia, France, Slovakia, and the United Kingdom. Participating organizations include the Camera Nazionale Della Moda Italiana, the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, the Fédération Française du Prêt-à-Porter Féminin, the Austrian Fashion Association, and The Prince’s Foundation, among others. Further actors within the fashion industry are also encouraged to join this collaborative effort.
Pascal Morand, Executive President of the Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode, emphasized the influential role that fashion can and should play in leading the charge towards sustainability. Fashion, with its ability to bridge gaps between different spheres, including the economy and culture, craftsmanship and technology, aesthetics and functionality, and inclusion and diversity, has creativity as its essence. Sustainability has now become the undeniable horizon for the industry.
The European Fashion Alliance will convene at the Gran Canaria Swim Week de Moda Cálida in Spain from October 18th to 21st, 2022. This event will provide an opportunity for members to gather and further advance their shared objectives of fostering sustainability and creativity in the European fashion industry.
Useful links:
1. Fashion Pledges for a Sustainable Recovery
2. EU Action on Circular Economy
