As ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) legislation becomes ever more demanding, companies working in the fashion, apparel and retail industries face increasing pressure to ensure compliance in areas including sustainable sourcing, ethical labour practices, and environmental impact. Ground Truth Reporting provides the independent evidence, verification and detailed insights necessary to meet these demands, improve consumer confidence, and avoid the risks associated with non-compliance.
Fashion companies are often required to verify that their raw materials are sourced sustainably, whether it is cotton, leather, or synthetic fibres. The ‘fast fashion’ industry faces increasing scrutiny and demands to ensure that the farms producing these materials are genuine, are using environmentally friendly farming practices, and that there is no exploitation of workers involved in the production process.
Retail chains also face increasing demands for transparency in their supply chains, driven by both ESG legislation and evolving consumer expectations. Additionally, retailers are also regulated in terms of how they manage waste – particularly given the growing public concern over plastic and unsustainable packaging.
Fashion and apparel companies along with retail chains, often employ large numbers of workers, both directly and through third-party suppliers. Ensuring that all workers are treated ethically, with fair wages, safe working conditions, and respect for their rights, is a key component of ESG compliance.
The Challenge
Documenting evidence of real-world conditions throughout fashion and retail supply chains, is not easy.
Desktop, research-based, or traditional audits provide a solid foundation of a supplier’s own declared operating standards, however effective risk management requires an approach that goes beyond the theoretical and into the real world.
