Collective action on climate: How retailers, brands and suppliers can partner on a just decarbonisation strategy

11:15 - 12:00

While the industry recognizes the urgency of value chain decarbonization, many fashion brands are falling short of their Scope 3 responsibilities. Remake's Fashion Accountability Report 2024 highlighted that only 29% of fashion brands can demonstrate financial support for decarbonization efforts—initiatives that are often opaque and limited in scale. Suppliers, meanwhile, face pricing pressures and unpredictable cash flows, making it difficult to invest in long-term climate solutions. Better Buying Institute revealed that fewer than 49% of suppliers receive payments that cover production costs and allow for profit. Without equitable partnerships and transparent investments, how can we expect the collective action necessary to drive meaningful and lasting change across the industry?

In this session, our panellists will discuss what a just climate transition looks like in practise.

Purchase Agreements: COVID-19 disruption and consumer uncertainty have triggered the ‘bullwhip effect,’ causing fluctuations in supplier security. Re-establishing consistent purchasing orders is key to balancing power and financial capital for suppliers.
Education and Collaboration: Building capacity and fostering shared learning to equip stakeholders at every level with the tools and knowledge to accelerate climate action together.
Science-Based Targets: How short- and long-term targets can enable both brands and suppliers to take actionable steps.
Empowering workers' rights: The industry must acknowledge the perspectives of the 300 million people employed along the value chain and integrate their voices in developing local solutions.