Asian Dialogues on Sustainability in the Textile and Garment Industry

by AGHub Admin created 2022-05-12T20:21:32+07:00

The garment and textile industry supports national economies across Asia and is a highly lucrative business for global brands and retailers alike. However, the sector is also renowned for poor working conditions, as well as a range of sustainability challenges which undermine its potential as an engine for socio-economic development. How can the garment and textile industry overcome these challenges so decent work and sustainability can be achieved?

The “Asian Dialogues on Sustainability in the Textile and Garment Industry” series was initiated by the STAR Network and GIZ FABRIC in order to foster collaboration and strengthen regional knowledge exchange for greater social, environmental and economic sustainability in the sector. Launched in 2015, the series aims to cultivate regional, sector-specific dialogue and promote cooperation between actors from across the supply chain.

To date, the Asian Dialogues series have gathered participants from 15+ countries in Asia and beyond, providing a platform to discuss opportunities and challenges, share regional experiences and explore innovative initiatives for sustainability in the garment and textile sector.

Asian Dialogues for Sustainability in the Textile and Garment Industry

The Asian Dialogues series aims to bring together industry enthusiasts and representatives – from brands, suppliers, workers, civil society, and government bodies from Asia and beyond. GIZ FABRIC initiates this event series in collaboration with the “STAR Network”. To date, the conference has been held ten times, allowing around 800 participants to discuss their experience with sustainable production topics and learn about initiatives in other countries.

“Getting Through the Crisis Together”

As part of the Asian Dialogues Series, “Getting through the crisis together” analyses different impacts the COVID-19 pandemic has on the industry and discusses best practices that foster resiliency in the industry. Throughout twelve sessions, 40+ speakers from twelve countries shared lessons learned with over 2,000 participants.

“Moving the Needle: Creating the Future Together”

The second part of the Asian Dialogues series, “Moving the needle: Creating the future together,” sheds light on the textile industry's new trends and structural changes as it recovers from the pandemic.

Key topics include:

Mandatory due diligence legislation impacting regional supply chains
New directions on purchasing practices
Expanding health and safety initiatives
Recycling and the circular economy, innovations in fabrics and textiles
Tools and approaches to combat gender-based