Fashion & Sustainability: A Snapshot Analysis

In 2007, the London College of Fashion formed a working group to understand current levels of activity in sustainability, to explore what support is available, and to identify the needs, expectations and aspirations for sustainability within the whole of the fashion industry. The analysis is the Centre for Sustainable Fashion’s first publication; we aim to provide regular insight into fashion & sustainability in the future.

This report describes the outcomes of this feasibility study. It specifically sets out to:

> Explore the current climate in fashion and sustainability, taking into account news and media coverage, reports, publications and market intelligence;
> Identify the pressures on the fashion industry as a result of media interest and subsequent consumer attitudes;
> Map the current provision of sustainability support accessible to the sector;
> Analyse the findings of the LCF Sustainability in Fashion
survey to evaluate current sustainability activity within the sector and the levels of support which currently exist;
> Gauge the current political agenda, specifically environmental and ethical lobby groups; current government support, activity and legislation that affects the fashion industry, e.g. Defra’s EU landfill directive; activity surrounding the 2012 London Olympics;
> Discuss the role of Higher Education Institutions(HEIs) and other support organisations;
> Identify the need for an industry body such as the CSF.

Ultimately, this report highlights opportunities for the CSF to meet the industry’s need for a networked and focused approach to sustainable activity in the fashion industry