Sustainability in Retail: Environmental & Business

The discussions during last week's World Economic Forum in Davos focused on how to tackle the biggest problem our planet faces. The existential threat of the climate crisis is the issue of the moment across the globe, as industries look to course correct towards more sustainable practices without hindering business growth.

The Fashion and Apparel industry, in particular, has felt the pressure from consumers and regulatory bodies alike to take responsibility for the monumental impact the industry has on our planet. And it’s for good reason they are feeling the heat. Considering the following:

• Clothing production has doubled, yet customers are keeping clothes for half as long.
• The fashion industry emits more carbon than international flights and maritime shipping combined--during production alone.
• 85% of ALL textiles are thrown away each year, and 5 billion pounds of returned goods end up in landfill. This contributes to the industry’s status as the second largest polluting industry in the world.
• eCommerce adds an additional strain in the form of packaging, logistics, and fulfillment. 

But it’s not just fashion. All retailers need to focus on becoming more sustainable in 2020 and beyond. 

At Newmine, we’re looking to do our part to help retailers and brand owners achieve the sustainable practice of reducing returns, while also enhancing bottom lines and business longevity. To learn more about how Newmine helps retailers build more intelligent supply chains and achieve sustainable goals, check out the following publications:

Fashion Retailers: Environmental and Business Sustainability Are Possible

The Ecobahn Interviews Newmine on Sustainable Returns Reduction Technology