The Sustainable Products Initiative (SPI) will require companies to rethink how products are created and prevent the destruction of unsold goods, lower energy usage and greenhouse gas emissions.
The European Commission recently proposed the Sustainable Products Initiative (SPI) as part of the EU’s Green Deal to help the continent achieve climate neutrality by 2050. The new initiative will look for new ways to limit microfiber production and use, and address greenwashing issues by prompting companies to use EU-approved labelling.
In addition, it will also impact international brands that sell in the EU or the UK. The SPI legislation can impact parts of the supply chain, as fast-fashion firms distribute low-quality, trend-driven clothing with depreciation. Fashion brands are already suffering from increased energy prices due to the war in Ukraine.
However, the EU recently released a strategy for a more sustainable textile industry and new anti-green washing measures. In addition, the SPI will also push for new circular business models, like renting, developing, and more. Kristen Fanarakis, Senza Tempo, states the SPI legislation has the potential to address "fashion’s environmental offenses: declining quality and overproduction."
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