In the world of fashion, it’s time we asked a fundamental question: Who made my clothes? Brands and retailers should have answers, but they often don’t. It's time to hold fashion companies accountable for their actions and demand ethical and sustainable supply chains. To the government officials and fashion industry leaders, we say this loud and clear: Stop Playing Dirty. 

Our Demands
The United States Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC) is currently in the midst of debating Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) requirements for public companies. We urge the SEC to maintain stringent regulations for Scope 3 greenhouse gas emissions, which account for 95% of emissions within the fashion industry. Without addressing Scope 3, ESG requirements lack meaning. Our goal is to ensure that companies are held responsible for their carbon footprint. 

But let’s not stop at greenhouse gas emissions. Let’s talk about something we all need to live – water. Freshwater is our life source – it’s used for drinking, bathing, energy, growing crops, manufacturing, and more. Water is non-negotiable, and we can’t afford to let it go to waste. It’s time to hold brands accountable for their chemical use and disposal, microfibers and microplastics (now found in the fish we eat), and water pollution. This isn’t just about fashion; it’s a public health concern. Let’s think long-term, let’s think endgame. 

Transparency is the key to preventing human rights violations. We demand that brands prioritize the health and safety of their workers at every stage of the supply chain. While the United States has taken some steps to prevent human rights abuses (think Tariff Act of 1930, California Transparency in Supply Chains Act, Garment Workers Act), these issues persist. 71% of companies believe there is some likelihood of modern slavery within their supply chain. United States corporations, in their relentless pursuit of profit – their notorious “race to the bottom” – bear the brunt of responsibility for these abuses. We’re calling on the SEC to mandate independent factory audits that meet United States standards, no matter which part of the world those factories call home. More specifically, we want United States standards in relation to chemical use and disposal, hazardous waste, microfibers and microplastics, occupational safety, water quality and pollution, and working conditions. If these practices are off-limits in our own backyard, why should our corporations be allowed to get away with them elsewhere?

Now, let’s talk numbers. 93% of garment workers don’t earn a living wage. 96% of companies do not disclose the amount of workers earning a living wage. It’s a complex problem, but we believe transparency is a critical first step. While we believe brands should divulge wage information to guarantee fair compensation for workers, we understand it’s easier said than done. Therefore, we recommend a focus on the importance of transparency in ensuring fair compensation for all workers.

We’re well aware of the vital role that workers' rights and agency play in ensuring fair working conditions. Unfortunately, many brands prioritize profit margins over their workers, resulting in adverse consequences for those who seek to exercise their freedom of association. This includes denying (needed) overtime, firing workers, harassment (physical, sexual, and verbal), and even violence and murder. The path to fair working conditions often begins with providing workers the means to advocate for their rights collectively. We recommend that the SEC considers measures that encourage companies to prioritize transparency regarding the working conditions and rights of their employees throughout the supply chain.

While we’d love to make it mandatory for all public companies to sign and support the International Accord for Health and Safety in the Textiles and Garment Industry (when applicable), we’re aware that this might just encourage companies to shift their factories elsewhere instead of addressing issues within their own supply chain. So, here’s our grand plan: we need to work towards comprehensive international standards. After all, the climate crisis knows no borders.

To the brands reading this petition, it is important you begin to implement these changes now – no matter the outcome. At present, Annual Impact Reports do not provide consumers with the same level of necessary information that shareholders receive to make sound investments. By implementing these recommendations, you will (1) have a greater understanding of your impact on the environment, (2) attract more consumers, as consumers are beginning to prioritize products with strong sustainability initiatives, and (3) better understand your customers ahead of competition.

Our goal is clear: to create a fashion industry that prioritizes our planet and people. By signing this petition, you’re joining a global movement for ethical and sustainable fashion. Together, we can ensure that the fashion choices we make reflect our values and drive meaningful change in this industry. Thank you.

Anna Louise Steare

For a deep dive into all things sustainable fashion, follow @hotoffthelips on Instagram.