Climate killer: fashion industry
According to the "Fashion on Climate" report by McKinsey & Company and the Global Fashion Agenda of 2020, annual emissions are equivalent to those of the French, British, Northern Irish and German economies combined. However, considerable amounts could be saved across all stages of the value chain.
Most harmful climate gases are produced during material production and processing. In particular, the intensive use of fertilizers in cotton cultivation and the extensive use of pesticides are responsible for high material-related greenhouse gas emissions. It is precisely this share of 61 % that could be significantly reduced through more sustainable, environmentally friendly fabric production and the minimization of production and manufacturing waste.
A further 18% reduction potential lies in the hands of the companies and labels themselves. This includes, above all, the further development of the materials used to date. A changed material mix, for example with more recycled fibers, or the increased use of organic cotton represent good opportunities for more sustainable clothing variants. CO₂-neutral means of transport such as electric vehicles, greater energy efficiency and conversions to renewable energies also bring about a reduction in greenhouse gas emissions. Some collections already consist entirely of recycled or reprocessed materials, and there are also the first vegan product lines.
Last but not least, according to the "Fashion on Climate" report, with an emissions savings potential of 21%, everyone can contribute through their own behavior by buying garments sustainably with care and wearing them significantly longer.
The clothing industry's own responsibility
With a holistic climate protection strategy, companies can do a lot to reduce their own emissions if they aim for climate neutrality for their sites and company headquarters. If this commitment is passed on to their own customers and actively communicated, a not inconsiderable competitive advantage is created.
The Blue Planet Certificate can play a very central role in this climate protection strategy. Particularly for those areas that cannot be sufficiently influenced by the company's own transformation. Already one ton of CO₂ can be compensated by reforesting 2 trees.