The fashion industry faces increasing pressure to deliver on sustainability commitments. While transparency in fashion is critical for accountability, many brands struggle with data transparency in fashion. Relying on average data creates barriers to achieving genuine decarbonization.
The Sustainability Challenge in the Fashion Industry
Sustainability teams in the fashion industry are stretched thin—juggling corporate reporting, product initiatives, social compliance, and actionable insights for leadership. However, the challenge lies in data quality. Brands often rely on average data for:
- Emission factors for yarn or fabric (e.g., MSI)
- Product weight, material mix, and fabric composition
- Manufacturing technology (e.g., ring vs. open-end spinning)
- Transportation modes and packaging
- Footwear components
- Emission factors for textile manufacturing processes (e.g., Ecoinvent)
While average data may suffice for short-term reporting, it undermines long-term progress.
The Risks of Relying on Average Data
1. Inaccurate Emission Baselines
Average data generalizes emission calculations, leading to inaccurate baselines. This foundational error impacts Science-Based Targets (SBTs) and progress reporting.
2. Lack of Industry Benchmarking
Industry-wide sustainability benchmarks are impossible without accurate product-specific emissions’ data. Brands must collect and report using primary supplier data.
3. False Sense of Progress
Without accurate data, emission reductions may reflect external factors—like seasonal changes or COVID-19 disruptions—rather than genuine progress.
4. No Incentives for Supplier Decarbonization
Suppliers investing in renewable energy and energy efficiency see little recognition if brands continue to rely on average data. Aligning incentives for supplier decarbonization is critical.
“Disclosing decarbonization targets doesn’t mean sufficient progress is being made. Transparency allows us to scrutinize improvements.”
— Ciara Barry, Policy and Campaigns Manager, Fashion Revolution
Why Transparency in Fashion Matters
Transparency drives accountability, enabling stakeholders to scrutinize sustainability commitments. However, data transparency alone isn’t enough—brands need meaningful, data-driven action to decarbonize effectively.
Fashion Transparency Index Insights
According to the 2023 Fashion Transparency Index: 94% of brands fail to share investments in supply chain decarbonization.
This lack of visibility hinders measurable progress and undermines credibility.
Moving Towards Accurate Data Transparency in Fashion
The Role of Primary Supplier Data
Improving data transparency starts with primary supplier data—granular, factory-specific data across supply chain tiers. Real decarbonization requires:
- Identifying Emission Hotspots: Focus on high-impact regions and processes.
- Prioritizing Reduction Initiatives: Target feasible, impactful solutions.
- Collaborating with Suppliers: Secure funding for long-term improvements.
- Measuring Process-Specific Emissions: Assess emissions at the factory level for yarns, fabrics, and garments.
- Leveraging Accurate Emission Factors: Replace average data with primary data for Scope 3 reporting.
Practical Steps to Improve Data Transparency in Fashion
- Collect and Validate Supplier Data: Work closely with manufacturers to gather real-time emissions data.
- Visualize Data Gaps: Identify gaps in primary data and create action plans to improve year-over-year reporting.
- Integrate Technology Solutions: Use tools like LCA software to automate data collection, validation, and emissions tracking.
- Communicate Transparent Progress: Report accurate emissions data to stakeholders and consumers, fostering trust and accountability.
Automated supplier data collection
Empowering Brands with Real-Time Data Transparency
At Carbon Trail, we partner with over 100+ textile, apparel, and footwear manufacturers to measure real-time impact using primary supplier data. Our solutions help brands:
- Measure and track true decarbonization progress.
- Visualize gaps in primary data and build actionable improvement plans.
- Leverage validated data for accurate Scope 3 reporting.
By prioritizing transparency in fashion, brands can move beyond average data to create meaningful, measurable sustainability outcomes.
From Transparency in Fashion to Action
Improving data transparency is critical for fashion brands to achieve genuine decarbonization. By replacing average data with primary supplier data and aligning incentives with manufacturers, brands can drive progress, reduce emissions, and lead the industry toward a more sustainable future.
