Clarity in Fashion: navigating the future of fashion with innovationand sustainability
On October 3rd, 2024, we had the pleasure of co-hosting the Clarity in Fashion event at Felix Meritis in Amsterdam. Together with CaseStudy, Rainbow Collection, and MODINT, we brought together key players from the fashion industry to discuss the future of fashion in the context of sustainability, compliance, and innovation.
Felix Meritis, known for centuries as a meeting place for intellectuals and visionaries, was the perfect venue for this event. The iconic location highlighted the weight of the challenges we face today and the transformative opportunities ahead, particularly as the fashion industry faces evolving EU regulations and sustainability targets.
Embrace regulations as tools for sustainability
The event started with a deep dive into upcoming European regulations like the Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) and the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), which require businesses to report on the environmental and social impact of their products. The conversation made it clear that regulations should not be seen as a limitation but rather as an opportunity to strengthen sustainability practices.
By aligning business practices with these regulations, brands can gain a competitive edge while contributing to a better future for both people and the planet. MODINT offered expert insights on these regulations, emphasising how companies can approach them not as burdens but as tools to further their sustainability goals.
Digital Product Passport (DPP) and automated data collection
A significant takeaway from the event was the increasing importance of the Digital Product Passport (DPP), a tool designed to ensure transparency throughout the product lifecycle. The DPP, which is also a regulatory requirement under the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR), is essential for streamlining compliance and enhancing trust and accuracy in the fashion supply chain.
At tex.tracer, we are fully committed to this effort. Our platform empowers brands to track every step of their production process, giving them the tools to not only meet but exceed the new regulatory demands while fostering transparency across the supply chain.
Labeling as a path to transparency
CaseStudy elaborated on the importance of labeling in enhancing sustainability. Labels serve as a bridge between brands and consumers, providing clear information about the environmental and social impact of products. The message was clear: better labeling practices create more transparency, build trust, and ultimately lead to a more sustainable future.
Collaboration as the key to innovation
One of the most impactful sessions of the day was the panel discussion featuring CEOs from leading brands such as Fabienne Chapot, L. tenCate BV, Schijvens Corporate Fashion, and marlies | dekkers. The panel echoed a central theme: innovation thrives in collaboration. The complexity of today’s regulations and market demands means that no brand can navigate the landscape alone.
Rainbow Collection, the event’s moderator, guided the discussion, reinforcing the idea that collective action is crucial. Brands,suppliers, and industry stakeholders must work together to shape a more responsible, compliant, and sustainable fashion ecosystem.
Challenges and opportunities ahead
One of the core messages of the day was to view the changing regulatory environment as an opportunity rather than an obstacle. While sustainability regulations can seem daunting, they offer a framework to drive innovation and improve business practices.
The fashion industry also faces challenges around greenwashingand green hushing—where brands either overstate or underplay their sustainability efforts. As highlighted during the event, authenticity is key,and companies need to be transparent about both their successes and areas of improvement. tex.tracer’s data-driven approach helps brands ensure the accuracyof their claims, preventing greenwashing and building consumer trust.
At tex.tracer, we are committed to continuing this conversation and driving the industry toward more sustainable practices. We look forward to collaborating with more brands, retailers, and stakeholders to build a better, more responsible fashion ecosystem.
Missed the event? Stay tuned for future opportunities toconnect with industry leaders and learn more about how tex.tracer can help you navigate sustainability and compliance challenges.
