“The negative impact that the fashion industry has on the environment and human health has been felt worldwide. From using pesticides to grow cotton to using toxic dyes to colour leather, the industry affects our lakes and rivers, landfills and lives. The toxic chemicals used in the process of producing clothing has long been hidden from the public's eye. Environmental Defence is proud to be part of Fashion Takes Action's mission to address these serious issues. Finally, there is an organization that is tackling this important issue and pushing the fashion industry to become more sustainable.”
Interview with H&M at the Retail Council of Canada Symposium
FTA at Retail Council of Canada Sustainability Symposium
On November 16th, FTA was at the 2011 Retail Energy and Sustainability Symposium hosted by the Retail Council of Canada. During the lunch hour, FTA's Founder, Kelly Drennan, interviewed Emily Scarlett of H&M's Communications and Press Department. H&M had a lot to share on their sustainability and employee engagement initiatives, or "7 Conscious Actions":
1. PROVIDE FASHION FOR CONSCIOUS* CUSTOMERS
2. CHOOSE AND REWARD RESPONSIBLE PARTNERS
3. BE ETHICAL
4. BE CLIMATE SMART
5. REDUCE, REUSE, RECYCLE
6. USE NATURAL RESOURCES RESPONSIBLY
7. STRENGTHEN COMMUNITIES
Emily Scarlett expanded on what each of these Actions meant to H&M as a philosophy, and with facts and figures. There were many great questions from the audience afterwards, and the conversations continued on into lunch. We are sure H&M's story will inspire other retail & apparel brands in their own trailblazing! Download H&M's Conscious Actions Sustainability Report 2010 for more details.