Beyond trendy threads: Importance of sustainability in fashion

Authored by Sanjay Nigam, the founder of Talent Factory, India Fashion Awards (IFA) and Fashion Entrepreneur Fund (FEF).

Sustainability isn't merely an option; it has evolved into a mindset embraced by consumers worldwide in today's era. It's a universal dialogue transcending various sectors, with the fashion industry being a particularly pertinent part of this global conversation. 

According to a study conducted by ResearchAndMarkets.com, the Global Ethical Fashion Market was assessed to have a value of $7,548.2 Million in 2022. While India’s textiles and garments industry makes a significant 5% contribution to the country's GDP, it’s no secret that the fashion sector stands out as one of the most environmentally taxing industries worldwide. The creation and disposal of clothing generates substantial waste and emissions, posing considerable impacts on both the environment and human health.

Outlook of the sustainability market in Indian fashion industry 

The ResearchAndMarkets.com report says that the Indian sustainable fashion market is projected to experience a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 10.6% from 2021 to 2026. The study highlights that the upswing in the market can be attributed to a rise in consumer awareness, government initiatives, and the greater accessibility of sustainable materials.

Government-led initiatives like Amended Technology Upgradation Fund Scheme (ATUFS), which has been introduced by the Ministry of Textiles, are geared towards modernizing the textile and apparel sector with a significant focus on sustainability. This approach establishes a seamless alignment between government policies and the pursuit of eco-friendly fashion objectives. Further supporting these initiatives, numerous Indian brands and designers have adopted sustainable practices in their business over the past few years.

The shift towards sustainability is clearly discernible, as highlighted by the Nielsen survey conducted in 2020. The study unveiled that a significant 85% of Indian consumers conscientiously factor in sustainability considerations when making their purchasing decisions. Far from being a passing fad, this awakening represents an enduring movement that is anticipated to gather increased momentum in the forthcoming years. 

The growth of sustainable fashion startups is a noteworthy development in the Indian sustainable fashion business. In response to the growing consumer demand for items made ethically and with consideration for the environment, business owners in India are launching sustainable fashion labels. These upstarts create unique goods that appeal to customers by combining cutting-edge technologies and eco-friendly materials. Furthermore, they include sustainable methods throughout their supply chains to guarantee that their products are socially and environmentally responsible. The emergence of these firms not only brings innovation to the sustainable fashion industry, but it also creates jobs in the field.

Challenges faced by the fashion industry 

In spite of the increasing demand and potential opportunities, the sustainable fashion sector in India encounters various obstacles. A significant impediment is the inadequacy of infrastructure. Moreover, the supply chain for sustainable fashion items tends to be fragmented, posing challenges for brands to procure sustainable materials and ensure ethical production practices.

Way Forward 

The Indian fashion industry is poised for a significant transformation with technology taking center stage in advancing sustainability. Innovations like 3D knitting machines, which markedly decrease fabric waste, and the integration of blockchain technology for ensuring supply chain transparency are expected to gain widespread adoption. These technological strides not only fortify sustainability practices but also enhance operational efficiency and cut costs, fostering a mutually advantageous outcome for both the industry and the environment.