UNRAVELLING FASHION’S THREADS: THE URGENT NEED FOR SUPPLY CHAIN TRANSPARENCY

By: Aseem Tuteja

The fashion industry, a global force shaping cultures and economies, has long been adorned with the glamour of runway shows and the allure of new collections. Yet, behind this facade lies a complex network of supply chains, often veiled in secrecy. The urgent call for supply chain transparency within the fashion industry is not just a necessity; it is a positive evolution, fueled by a growing awareness of the social, environmental, and ethical implications of clothing production.

Credit: Gbenga Onalaja / @onalaja_

The increasing demand for sustainable fashion supply chains has underscored the significant value of transparency and visibility throughout the entire supply chain. Stakeholders, including vendors, factories, auditors, and end consumers, are now looking beyond the garments showcased on mannequins. The pivotal role of transparency is now recognized as a cornerstone for authentic commitments to strategic collaborations.

Here we take a closer look at some of the aspects driving this positive transformation.

The Hidden Cost of Fashion: Fashion's global supply chains are intricate, involving stages from raw material extraction to garment distribution. Unfortunately, this complexity often results in a lack of transparency, hindering consumers from tracing the origins of their clothing. This opacity conceals the true cost of fashion, extending beyond the price tag to encompass social injustices, environmental degradation, and ethical concerns.

Social Justice: In many instances, the fashion industry relies on low-cost labour in developing countries, where workers face exploitative conditions. The lack of transparency allows brands to distance themselves from these practices, perpetuating a cycle of worker exploitation. However, positive changes are underway. Major fast fashion brands, once embroiled in controversies over sweatshop-like conditions, are now facing increased scrutiny. The Rana Plaza collapse in 2013, a tragic event that resulted in over 1,100 deaths in Bangladesh, prompted a call for transparency and accountability in the fashion supply chain.

Environmental Impact: Transparent supply chains can shed light on the environmental impact of each garment, encouraging brands to adopt sustainable practices. Brands like Patagonia, a renowned outdoor clothing company, set an industry standard by providing detailed information about its supply chain, including the use of organic cotton and recycled materials.

Ethical Sourcing: Transparency is vital for verifying the sourcing of raw materials. The fashion industry's reliance on resource-intensive materials contributes to deforestation, water scarcity, and chemical pollution. Positive changes are evident in brands like Eileen Fisher, a sustainable fashion brand committed to transparency and ethical sourcing. The company provides information about its sustainable practices, including the use of organic fibres and a commitment to fair labour practices.

The Role of Technology: Technology has emerged as a powerful ally in the quest for supply chain transparency. Blockchain, for instance, enables the creation of immutable, transparent records at every step of the supply chain. This technology authenticates the origin of raw materials, tracks manufacturing processes, and verifies fair labour practices, offering consumers unprecedented visibility into the journey of their garments.

Consumer Activism: Consumers, armed with information, wield the power to drive positive change in the fashion industry. Growing demands for transparency have compelled brands to disclose information about their supply chains. Consumer activism, fueled by awareness campaigns and sustainable fashion movements, has prompted industry leaders to commit to more transparent practices. This shift signifies a positive step toward a fashion industry that prioritizes ethics and sustainability.

Credit: Becca McHaffie / @beccamchaffie

The urgent need for supply chain transparency in the fashion industry is an undeniable reality, but it heralds positive change. As consumers become more conscientious, they play a pivotal role in pressuring brands to embrace transparency and accountability. By shedding light on the hidden aspects of clothing production, the industry is moving towards a more sustainable, ethical, and socially responsible future. 

Cover Image: Kris Atomic / @krisatomic