With the theme of “compliance first, business next”, The Apparel Industry Sustainability Action (AISA) was launched in India.
According to The Apparel Export Promotion Council (AEPC), AISA aimed to boost the sustainable attributes of the garment industry which is looking to capitalize on free trade agreements (FTAs).
In an open discussion, global apparel brands and auditing agencies were together including PVH Corporation, Target, Bestseller, Marks and Spencer (M&S), Reverse Resources to advocate their growing drive towards sustainability and advised suppliers to begin the journey.
The meeting also witnessed support and guidance across borders including United National Environment Program (UNEP) and Denmark embassy, Fashion for Good, Netherlands; all bringing in their experiences towards assisting the Indian garment manufacturers to turn into sustainability measures in their manufacturing processes.
Naren Goenka, Chairman, AEPC said, “As we all know global garment production is forecast to increase by 63% by 2030. This spectacular growth brings with it an ever-growing global concern on the detrimental impact that this fashion industry brings as it is one of the most resource-intensive industries.”
Also, considering the growing consumer awareness on sustainability and the gaps in the global markets, it is a dire need for the Indian Apparel industry to dig deeper into the subject, he added.
The initiative took with the aim of Evaluation of the existing status of Indian garment industry, and to encourage wider penetration of these measures amongst the MSMEs (Ministry of Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises).
Also, hand-holding these units with demonstrations and solutions. In terms of global platform, enhance the brand visibility of sustainable companies.
For this, taking necessary policy focused towards wider and smooth adoption of sustainability measures amongst Indian garment units at large.
Notably, The Government has been very proactive towards announcing various export promotion initiatives and signing various Free Trade agreements with UAE, Australia, UK, Canada etc.
