Hosted in Melbourne on May 21st and Sydney on June 5th, these sold-out events have captivated industry leaders and enthusiasts alike, while heralding a promising new chapter in the realm of sustainable fashion. Brands that attended these world-first events have been part of an important moment aimed at inspiring the Australian fashion industry to transition towards supporting sustainable forestry.
The significance of these roundtables extends far beyond their immediate success. For the first time, fashion's leading minds from diverse retail and manufacturing backgrounds came together to explore the transformative power of FSC certification. But why is FSC so vital for fashion, and what makes this series of events so newsworthy?
Fashion’s Forest Friendly Future: Why FSC Matters
Forest Stewardship Council (FSC) certification represents a commitment to responsible forest management, ensuring that the forest-based products we use and wear contribute to the health of the world’s forests rather than their destruction. For the fashion industry, FSC certification means that the fibres used in garments come from forests managed with respect for the environment, the rights of workers and communities, and the economic viability of the forestry industry.
FSC Australia and New Zealand CEO Melanie Robertson notes, “As consumers become more environmentally-conscious, the demand for sustainably sourced products is skyrocketing. Fashion brands are under increasing pressure to prove their commitment to sustainability, and FSC certification offers a clear and credible way to meet this demand. Together, we hope to champion a future where fashion and forests coexist in harmony.”
Trailblazing Events in Sydney and Melbourne
The FSC Fashion Roundtable sessions offered a unique opportunity for attendees to gain valuable insights from industry leaders and experts at the intersection of fashion and sustainability. Among the notable speakers were:
- Jaana Quaintance-James, CEO of the Australian Fashion Council (AFC), who shared visionary perspectives on sustainable fashion.
- James Felton-Taylor, an FSC certified forest manager and Board Director, who underscored the importance of responsible forestry.
- Greg Taylor, Founder and Owner of Step One, who detailed his company’s journey as the first Australian clothing brand to achieve FSC certification and join the Fashion Forever Green Pact.
- Linda A Reid, from Winc Australia, and Lyndall Matthews, from Hallmark Australia and New Zealand, who highlighted their ongoing partnerships with FSC and the benefits of a promotional licence.
- Emily Silberberg, from Global-Mark, who provided invaluable insights into FSC chain of custody certification.
These sessions went beyond mere discussions; they served as a rallying call for action. Participants explored the crucial link between fashion and forests, delving into successful case studies and discussing opportunities to promote forest-friendly fashion. The interactive format encouraged attendees to actively engage with the material, fostering collaboration and inspiring practical changes within the industry.
Looking Ahead to Auckland
Building on the success of Sydney and Melbourne, FSC Australia and New Zealand are now gearing up for their final roundtable session in Auckland on June 25th. This event promises to be just as impactful, offering New Zealand-based fashion brands, retailers, and manufacturers a unique opportunity to elevate their sustainability efforts.
What’s on the Agenda:
- The Vital Connection between Fashion and Forests: Exploring how FSC certification supports environmental, social, and economic outcomes.
- Deep Dive: Successful Case Studies: Learning from brands that have successfully integrated FSC practices.
- Interactive Session: Discovering opportunities for your organization to support forest-friendly fashion.
- FSC 101: Understanding the meaning behind the label.
- Circularity: Transitioning from fossil-based to bio-based materials.
- A Call to Action: Overview of the Fashion Forever Green Pact and the benefits of becoming a signatory.
🚨 Don’t Miss Out! The Auckland event on June 25th is a must-attend for anyone in the fashion industry eager to embrace sustainable practices. This is your chance to be part of a movement that’s redefining the future of fashion, ensuring that every step we take is lighter on the planet.
Join Us in Auckland:
- For more information and to register for the Auckland event, click button below.
- Meet the speakers: https://anz.fsc.org/fashion-roundtable-presenters-auckland