'Work at broader level for sustainable change'

The SAC has been working towards identifying and addressing issues affecting the entire value chain of the apparel and footwear industry. With close to 200 members including brands, retailers, manufacturers, raw material providers, auditing firms, government, non-government institutions, academicians and various other stakeholders, SAC is helping them incorporate sustainability practices.

"Our main product is the tool called Higg Index which comprises modules designed for various segments of the industry. We have tools for brands, products and facilities. Recently, we released a product footprinting tool. We have different modules for social and environmental aspects that assess various policies and impacts of the facilities and brands. We have also introduced a design and development module so that the apparel designers will understand the impact of the products that they are making," he said.

Various institutions have also adopted sustainability in their work practices. "Each brand has different sustainability programmes and goals. Some retailers are also investing in improving their processing and significance in the environment, others are focusing on product betterment. Academicians are also playing a major role by teaching young designers and apparel managers the benefits of incorporating sustainability in their work. Non-government institutions play a crucial role in promoting sustainability by analysing the techniques of collecting credible information to develop better sustainable tools," added Kibbey. (RR)

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ALCHEMPro News Desk – India