07. LEAVE FOSSILS
IN THE GROUND
Divesting from fossil fuel is essential to achieve net zero emissions and build a net positive circular fashion industry. Over 90% of greenhouse gas emissions come from brands’ supply chain operations, and they must be supported to transition to clean energy.
Phasing out virgin fossil fuel derived fibers and investing in solutions to handle synthetic textile waste will help mitigate the impacts of their use.
KEY ACTIONS FOR:
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Phase out virgin synthetics, prioritize biodegradable, bio-based alternatives. Support for raw material suppliers to transition to renewable energy.
Support raw material suppliers practicing regenerative farming techniques.
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Support the use of renewable energy throughout the supply chain. Scope 3 indirect value chain emissions (where 96% of apparel companies have emissions)
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Phase out virgin synthetic materials. Transition to renewable energy within own operations and logistics
Financially support all tiers of supply chain to transition to renewable energy, prioritizing Scope 3 indirect value chain emission.
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Policies to support the renewable energy transition. Create a plastics tax on virgin synthetic fibers.
Textiles are now the largest source of global microplastic pollution and have been detected in the deepest parts of the ocean; requiring brands to publish information on their annual estimated contribution to microplastic levels in the ocean or draft microplastic prevention plans
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Fund initiatives and businesses which are proven or promising to keep products and materials in use for longerSupport the transition to renewable energy through the supply chain
Divest from companies not transitioning to renewable energy. Support recycling technologies focused on synthetic fibers, particularly post-consumer polyester