On 14 May, a day ahead of the Copenhagen Fashion Summit 2019, five leading apparel organisations partner to call on existing and forthcoming EU policymakers to rethink tools to establish a circular fashion system.

The joint Industry Manifesto sets the scene framing agreed key issues which shall inspire industry and policy makers’ actions notably to bring on board all steps of the value chain, local and global actors, SMEs, consumers.

A new approach is called for: a new toolbox bringing together private and public initiatives, coordination and smart regulation, to address issues the industry cannot address alone.

Ultimately, a new formula to rewrite the book of rules and procedures shall be agreed upon to deliver new policies and new partnerships.

Mauro Scalia, EURATEX Director of Sustainable Businesses, says: “we believe joint endeavors can win global challenges. The Manifesto shows that finding new ways for unprecedented coordination is possible”.

Jérome Pero, Secretary General, FESI, states that “[…] to drive change, it is essential that all actors work together to make it happen. That’s why I believe this manifesto is a perfect, timely call to unite everyone”.

Eva Kruse, CEO and President, Global Fashion Agenda: “This manifesto is extremely significant as it is the first time so many influential organisations in the fashion industry have come together to work with policymakers on a unified approach to circularity […]”

Matthijs Crietee, Secretary General, IAF, says “[…] IAF will actively use its worldwide network to help create the connections for a global approach to circular fashion”

Baptiste Carrière-Pradal, Vice President, SAC, emphasizes that “[…] Through this European collaboration we can support legislation that promotes lasting industry improvements globally.”