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Agenda-setting intelligence, analysis and advice for the global fashion community.

Why Big Brands Are Pushing Back Against Sustainability Regulations

Fashion companies argue proposed government mandates for greater supply chain transparency are ‘impractical.’ They shouldn’t be, writes Kenneth P. Pucker.
A press conference held last week by proponents of the New York Fashion Act.
A press conference held last week by proponents of the New York Fashion Act. (Kenneth Pucker)

For the past two years, I have been working with the New Standard Institute to secure passage of the New York Fashion Act. The Act represents the first thorough attempt to regulate the fashion industry in the United States requiring that brands selling in New York state perform due diligence, report on their impacts and reduce carbon emissions in keeping with planetary boundaries. As part of the process, I have engaged with scores of industry participants including brands, suppliers, trade associations, unions and activists.

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Further Reading

Is This the Year New York Regulates Fashion?

Two landmark bills taking aim at the industry’s environmental and social impact — the New York Fashion Act and the Fashion Workers Act — are back on the US state’s legislative agenda.

About the author
Kenneth Pucker

Kenneth Pucker is a contributing writer at The Business of Fashion. Pucker is an American writer and educator who specialises in sustainability.

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