Thematic Area

Understanding impact: Research insights from Better Work 2017-2022

The report highlights the achievements of Better Work, a program by the ILO and IFC, tackles challenges in the garment industry. It aims for good working conditions and business growth together. They work in 12 countries, helping factories follow labor laws and improve competitiveness. Their methods include assessments, training, and encouraging communication between workers,employers, and governments. Better Work's research shows positive impacts on workers' lives, businesses, and garment industry as a whole.

Sustainable supply chain management in the fast fashion industry: A comparative study of current efforts and best practices to address the climate crisis.

To analyze SSCM in the fast fashion industry, this study compares the sustainability reports of H&M and Everlane, industry leaders with strong sustainability messaging. This comparison reveals that fast fashion has failed to sufficiently engage upstream and downstream stakeholders in their SSCM strategies. Moving forward, fast fashion companies should incentivize collaboration towards more comprehensive SSCM policies throughout the supply chain. 

State of Fashion 2022: An uneven recovery and new frontiers

Battered by COVID-19 lockdowns, the fashion industry showed signs of revival in mid-2021. While luxury brands and comfort wear thrived, many companies faced bankruptcy and leadership shifts. China's domestic market, boosted by local shopping and luxury spending, recovered faster. Overall, the industry is expected to reach pre-pandemic sales levels by 2022, driven by the US and China, but the recovery will be uneven with some companies faring better than others.

Catalyzing inclusive circularity in India - In solidarity with waste pickers

The H&M Foundation's Saamuhika Shakti project (2020-2026) tackles social inclusion in India's textile recycling industry. This initiative empowers informal waste pickers, a marginalized group, by integrating them into the recycling value chain. By treating waste as a valuable resource, Saamuhika Shakti aims to create a more sustainable and equitable circular economy in India's textile sector.

Gender Equality in the Global Garment Industry: Highlights of the Better Work Strategy 2018–2022

This report highlights the Better Work strategy (2018-2022), a collaborative effort by the ILO and IFC to promote gender equality in the global garment industry. It highlights the importance of decent work conditions, including fair treatment, social protections, and work-life balance, for empowering women and fostering a thriving garment industry.

How the African Development Bank’s Fashionomics Africa Program is Nurturing the Continent’s Textile and Apparel Industry

This publication explores the African fashion industry and an initiative by the African Development Bank to support it. The fashion industry is a major player in Africa, holding immense potential for job creation, particularly for women and young people. However, the industry also faces challenges such as limited access to funding and low production capacity. The African Development Bank's Fashionomics Africa program helps fashion businesses with training, investment, and finding new markets.

Transforming Trash Into Cash

High school students in Uganda are tackling plastic pollution with creativity and business savvy. Through the Asante Africa Foundation's program, they learned leadership and entrepreneurship skills. Now, they're using recycled plastic to create and sell artwork, transforming waste into income. Their "Together as One Initiative" aims not only to clean up their community but also to empower others through education and sustainable solutions.