At a time of compounding crises — from intensifying heat waves to geopolitical conflicts — it can feel trivial to talk about fashion. But the clothes we wear intersect with climate justice, human rights and global politics more than we might realise. Ignoring these connections only perpetuates the systems that exploit both people and planet.
Climate risks the industry can’t ignore
During record heatwaves in Europe and the United States, insurance giants warned that extreme weather poses systemic risks to the global economy[1]. Yet recently released investor reports show that major fashion brands do not see climate change as a financially material risk in the near term[2]. Companies such as Kering, Hermès, Richemont and Adidas concluded that their climate‑related risks have “no significant material impact” or remain “relatively limited”[3]. This complacency is happening even as unpredictable weather disrupts supply chains, threatens raw material production and endangers worker health[4].
Only 18 % of fashion executives rank sustainability as a top‑three risk[5], down from 29 % the previous year, despite growing scrutiny from investors, regulators and consumers. Such short‑sightedness ignores mounting evidence that climate risks are financial risks.
A landmark ruling for climate justice
On 23 July 2025 the International Court of Justice issued a groundbreaking advisory opinion stating that countries must address the “urgent and existential threat” of climate change[6]. The court declared that nations — particularly wealthy ones — are legally obliged to achieve concrete emission‑reduction targets[7] and that failure to comply could result in reparations to states harmed by climate impacts[8]. The judges emphasised that countries are responsible for the actions of companies under their jurisdiction[9]. While the opinion is non‑binding, it signals a new era of climate accountability and underscores why businesses, including fashion brands, cannot treat climate as a peripheral issue.
Conflict, solidarity and fashion activism
The world’s turmoil doesn’t stop at climate. As the example email referenced, the humanitarian crisis in Gaza shows how conflict magnifies inequalities and diverts attention from sustainability work. People living in frontline communities — whether in low‑lying Pacific islands or besieged cities — often have no “weather privilege” and bear the brunt of both climate impacts and war. Fashion cannot be disconnected from these realities; the same global systems that exploit garment workers and pollute the planet also contribute to geopolitical instability.
What can conscious consumers do?
1. Support humanitarian and mutual‑aid organisations. Groups like The Sameer Project, the International Rescue Committee, Palestine Children’s Relief Fund and World Central Kitchen provide food, medical care and shelter to people living through war and displacement.
2. Use civic tools. Platforms like 5Calls.org make it easy to contact your elected officials and advocate for ceasefires, humanitarian aid and climate action.
3. Educate yourself and others. Share information about the intersections of fashion, climate and conflict. Offline conversations often have more impact than social‑media posts.
4. Hold brands accountable. Ask companies how they are preparing for climate risks, protecting supply‑chain workers and responding to humanitarian crises. Support brands that act transparently and with compassion.
5. Continue to imagine a better future. As environmentalist Leah Thomas notes, returning to grassroots and local action can build resilience when democracy feels fragile. Grassroots movements such as mending circles, community swaps and upcycled runway shows (see previous posts) offer tangible pathways forward.
The challenges facing our world are immense, but fashion provides an entry point for meaningful action. By acknowledging the links between our wardrobes, the climate crisis and global conflicts, we take the first steps towards a more just and sustainable future. Our choices — what we wear, who we support, how we engage — can either sustain an exploitative status quo or help weave a future that honours both people and planet.
[1] [2] [3] [4] The World Is Getting Warmer. Fashion Thinks It Can Handle the Heat. | BoF
[5] 2025 Fashion Statistics: Insights for Strategic, Sustainable, and Connected Industry | World Collective
[6] [7] [8] [9] Top UN court says treaties compel wealthy nations to curb global warming | Reuters