The industry associations Swiss Textiles, Swiss Fair Trade and amfori have launched the Sustainable Textiles Switzerland (STS 2030) program. With the goals defined by the new program, the textiles and clothing industry is seeking to “jointly generate a leverage effect” with the aim of supporting the 17 UN Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Supported by the State Secretariat for Economic Affairs (SECO) and the Federal Office for the Environment (FOEN), the sustainability roadmap envisages a substantial reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in the textiles industry in addition to the promotion of fair pay, decent work and innovative business models to advance the transition towards a circular economy, further details of which can be found in a press release. Moreover, stakeholders should work to ensure greater transparency so that sustainable procurement decisions can be made.
During the implementation phase that has now been launched, the range of services offered by companies and organizations must be aligned with the SDGs. In addition, all stakeholders should implement a “proactive information policy” to provide fresh impetus for more climate-friendly consumption and purchasing in addition to promoting a more sustainable use of textiles. All participating companies, institutions and organizations are required to address the SDGs through their entrepreneurial activities and to measure progress in this regard on a regular basis.
So far, the following companies have signed up: Transa Backpacking AG, Coop, PKZ Burger-Kehl & Co, Migros (including Micasa), Rrrevolve and glore Schweiz GmbH from the retail sector. E. Schellenberg Textildruck AG, Bächi Cord AG, Weseta Textil AG and the brands CALIDA, Mammut Sportsgroup AG, Balsiger Textil AG (with Lavie and Journey Living), Holy Fashion Group (with JOOP!, Windsor and Strellson), Collectif mon Amour, the Blue Suit, and the service provider Testex as representatives of textile production. The city of Zurich is also participating.