EFA-European Fashion Alliance presented its manifesto-decalogue for the protection of European fashion as a creative industry.
The EFA Round Table held on December 04, 2024 under the patronage of Dr. Christian Ehler, member of the European Parliament, and with the presence of Jessika Roswall, European commissioner for the Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy, highlighted the importance of defining complex regulations that respect fashion's creative identity while promoting innovation and sustainability.
“Fashion is not just about creating objects - declared Christian Ehler, member of the European Parliament - but it is also about creating dreams and embracing the art of constant reinvention. In times of social transformation, these dreams are more essential than ever. The European Union and its institutions must actively support and nurture this spirit of creativity and innovation. To achieve this goal, however, strong collaboration between politics and industry is needed. But the task of achieving the mandatory 55% reduction in climate emissions does not fall only to legislators: the fashion sector and industry must also make serious large-scale efforts to achieve the common goals.”
“As the new Commissioner - added Jessika Roswall, EU commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience and a Competitive Circular Economy - I want you to know that my door is always open. The transition to sustainable fashion is not just about regulations, but also about collaboration, innovation, and a shared vision.”
“At the European Parliament, in Brussels, notable participation for the Fashion Policy Round Table organized by EFA (European Fashion Association) of which Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana is a founding member and member of the Board, with in-depth discussions on hot topics for the fashion sector - said Carlo Capasa, president of the National Chamber of Italian Fashion. "Emotional" durability of products to measure the real durability of the finished product, the need to reward noble and biodegradable fibers, to charge the costs of achieving the ecological transition to those who fill landfills with fast consumer products, with the request to think about specific rules for Italian manufacturing, made largely by SMEs, which drives the production of creative fashion in the world. I hope, Capasa reiterated, that in Europe we will definitively realize the relevance of our commitment and the push that the entire fashion industry is giving to the "green deal" in that interpretation which can only be respectful of all the components of the creative fashion industry.”
At a crucial moment for the European fashion sector, the European Fashion Alliance (EFA), which brings together the European Chambers of Fashion, is committed to defending the singularity of the European fashion creative industry and its economic, social, and cultural power. Founded in 2022, the EFA stands as a collective voice, promoting the transition of European creative fashion towards a more sustainable, innovative, and inclusive future.
The “Status of European Fashion” report expresses a declaration of values, a sector survey, and a manifesto of recommendations. The survey was conducted by the EFA based on a study carried out with 211 industry representatives and carried out in collaboration with the 27 members of the EFA. The European fashion industry is facing a significant transformation, driven by the need for sustainability, technological innovation, and workforce development. The sector is under increasing pressure to address environmental impacts, adopt new technologies, and prepare the workforce for future needs.
The ten recommendations established by the EFA aim to enhance European creativity and power, measure sustainability fairly, and provide accurate and fair information to consumers. The two panels highlighted the importance of creation, quality, and heritage, all key elements for sustainability. They also highlighted the urgency of moving towards sustainability and the importance of combining skills and building bridges within the fashion ecosystem in collaboration with public authorities. During the meeting, the crucial role of research and development policies and digital transformation, enhanced by artificial intelligence, were also addressed, particularly from the perspective of the Digital Product Passport.
While the industry is intent on adopting sustainable practices, many brands face significant barriers, such as a lack of knowledge, financial resources, and trained staff. Overcoming these challenges requires clear regulations, financial support, and incentives to help companies transition to a more ethical, transparent, and sustainable business model.
