Challenges in the Supply Chain
When we talk about transparency, we're referring to the openness and honesty in business practices, particularly the ability to trace products through every stage of production. Transparency involves making all processes visible, from the sourcing of raw materials to the final product delivery. It ensures that every step is documented and accessible, promoting accountability and ethical practices. At first glance, transparency might seem like a straightforward concept—one that should be easy to implement in any industry. So why hasn't the fashion industry fully embraced it?
The demand for transparency in the fashion industry has been growing steadily over the past few decades, driven by increased consumer awareness and activism. The 1990s saw the first wave of concern over labor practices in sweatshops, leading to boycotts and demands for better working conditions. The 2000s brought a heightened focus on environmental sustainability, with the rise of eco-fashion and green consumerism. Today, transparency has become a critical issue, as consumers, activists, and governments alike push for more ethical and sustainable practices across the entire supply chain. The rise of social media has also amplified the call for transparency, making it easier for consumers to hold brands accountable for their actions.
The unfortunate truth is that the fashion industry has been linked to numerous ethical and environmental issues over the years. For instance, the tragic Rana Plaza disaster, where over 1,000 people lost their lives and more than 2,000 were injured, highlighted the urgent need for transparency. The incident underscored the dire consequences of neglecting accountability in the supply chain, leading to the birth of movements like Fashion Revolution, which demands to know, "Who made my clothes?" This movement has since grown into a global campaign that pushes brands to provide clear and honest information about their production processes, encouraging consumers to make more informed choices.
