Sustainability today has become a necessity driven by consumer awareness and preference for sustainable products, compliance norms, and a realisation that to secure the future it is important to act today.
Life cycle approach to sustainability in textile and apparel industry entails ensuring the three facets of sustainability — social, economic and environmental.
These are being addressed in the following stages: Fibre production, textile manufacturing, garment manufacturing, distribution, retailing, consumption, and aftermarket.
Some companies that have adopted sustainability in their core business are M&S, H&M, Levis, Patagonia, IKEA, Arvind Ltd, Alok Industries, Puma, Nike, GAP, Adidas etc.
Noteworthy trends that could be seen in the near future are: Carbon-centric to watercentric, energy access to energy efficiency, printed papers to digital development, increased international campaigns, increased pressure from consumers and legislation, increased innovation and creativity at various supply chain steps.
