The textile industry is facing a major crisis due to the rapid rise of ultra-fast fashion. Production is speeding up, but the quality of clothing is suffering. This industry is notorious for its cheap manufacturing practices, overconsumption, and a short lifespan for garments. In fact, it contributes to about 10% of global carbon emissions and 20% of global wastewater. This makes it one of the most polluting sectors worldwide. Workers in apparel production, often located in vulnerable regions, face increasing threats from climate change, such as floods and extreme heat.
In 2009, the UN recognized that our human rights are at risk because of climate change. As we look ahead to 2025, it’s clear that we must connect the dots between human rights, environmental health, and climate change. The emerging right to a clean and sustainable environment is vital for overall human rights. Several international resolutions emphasize this connection, signaling that a healthy planet is foundational to enjoying basic rights.
The European Union has taken a significant step towards sustainability in textiles with its EU Strategy for Sustainable and Circular Textiles. This strategy aims to shift the focus away from fast fashion. An important tool within this strategy is the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD). These policies aim to ensure that garment production is responsible and respects both the environment and workers’ rights.
The role of companies is crucial. Brands, retailers, and suppliers are increasingly being held accountable for their impact on human rights and the environment. While many companies have tried to adopt corporate social responsibility initiatives, these efforts often fall short. They rarely lead to real improvements in labor standards or fair wages in the global supply chain. New laws are emerging to drive positive change, like the German Supply Chain Act and similar legislation across Europe, which mandates companies to consider their environmental and human rights impacts.
A circular economy could be the key to making textile production more sustainable. This approach aims to minimize waste by reusing materials and resources as much as possible. The Ellen MacArthur Foundation highlights how transforming the textile industry to this model could address pressing issues like resource depletion and pollution.
The EU Strategy lays out a framework for more sustainable textile production, with goals to ensure that textile products are longer lasting, repairable, and recyclable. Among its numerous legislative efforts, the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation will introduce measures like the Digital Product Passport, aimed at promoting transparency in the lifecycle of textiles.
While the focus on environmental concerns is strong, social rights often seem neglected in legislation. Challenges such as low wages and poor working conditions still persist, even in recycling facilities. Child and forced labor have been reported in some areas, indicating the need for stricter enforcement of workers’ rights. A comprehensive approach is necessary—one that also considers how these circular models might impact jobs and labor conditions in the textile sector.
In conclusion, the EU Strategy is an important step in reimagining the textile industry. However, it must do more to link environmental and social rights effectively. It’s essential that the EU leads the way in ensuring that both people and the planet are respected and protected during this transition. New policies and stronger regulations are required to curb the negative impacts of fast fashion and to promote a sustainable future for textiles. The goal should always be to operate within our planet’s limits while honoring human rights.
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