The most popular topic in the Garment industry in 2023 is: Sustainability.

The activewear and functional garments industry is one of the most polluting industries in the world. It is estimated that the industry produces over 100 billion tons of wastewater each year, and it is a major contributor to climate change.

However, there are a number of sustainable practices that activewear and functional garments factories can implement to reduce their environmental impact and improve the lives of their workers.

Here are a few examples:

Use sustainable materials: Activewear and functional garments are typically made from synthetic materials, such as polyester and nylon. These materials are derived from petroleum, which is a non-renewable resource. Activewear and functional garments factories can reduce their environmental impact by using sustainable materials, such as organic cotton, recycled polyester, and bamboo.

Reduce water and energy consumption: The activewear and functional garments industry consumes a lot of water and energy. Activewear and functional garments factories can reduce their water and energy consumption by using efficient technologies, such as water-saving washing machines and energy-efficient lighting.

Recycle and reuse materials: Activewear and functional garments factories can reduce waste by recycling and reusing materials. For example, they can recycle scraps of fabric into new products, or they can reuse water from the dyeing process.

Adopt fair labor practices: The activewear and functional garments industry is notorious for its poor labor practices. Activewear and functional garments factories can improve the lives of their workers by adopting fair labor practices, such as paying a living wage, providing safe working conditions, and allowing workers to unionize.

Here are some specific sustainable practices that activewear and functional garments factories can implement in their factories:

Use recycled water for dyeing: This can reduce water consumption by up to 80%.

Use solar power to generate electricity: This can reduce reliance on fossil fuels and reduce greenhouse gas emissions.

Install energy-efficient lighting: This can reduce energy consumption by up to 50%.

Use water-soluble dyes: This can reduce water pollution and wastewater treatment costs.

Use recycled polyester fabric: This can reduce the need for virgin polyester, which is derived from petroleum.

Offer paid sick leave and vacation days: This can improve worker morale and productivity.

Provide safe working conditions: This includes ensuring that workers have access to adequate ventilation, lighting, and safety equipment.

Allow workers to unionize: This gives workers a voice in the workplace and helps to ensure that they are treated fairly.

By implementing sustainable practices in their factories, activewear and functional garments factories can reduce their environmental impact and improve the lives of their workers. This is good for the planet and good for business.