Developing a circular ecosystem for fashion
From concerted regulatory action to investments in circularity by brands across the fashion and lifestyle industry, it seems that the tide has well and truly turned in favour of a more circular way of doing business. But while individual efforts are to be applauded, it’s only by adopting a more holistic, collaborative approach that we’ll be able to bring about the scale of change we need to see. That’s why the theme of this year’s report is ‘Developing a circular ecosystem for fashion’. Inside, we’ll explore the many ways in which ‘ecosystem thinking’ can drive progress on circularity – from building a business case for circular solutions to reducing the financial and environmental costs of returns.
Reframing the question of risk
At Bleckmann, we’re proud to be playing our part in this transition by steadily expanding our circular fashion offering. Through our on-the-ground experience, one thing has become clear: as an industry, we need to reframe how we think about risk. Investing in circularity always involves risk to the current way of working. Bleckmann took this risk in 2022 when we acquired The Renewal Workshop, our team of experts in circular fashion operations and technology.
We went ahead because we felt that the potential benefits were worth the cost. We’re happy to say that we’ve been proved right, having helped many fashion and lifestyle brands integrate circular business practices into their existing operations. The key to this success? Promoting an ecosystem-based – rather than an individual-centred – approach to risk. Because when we look beyond the individual, we all benefit.
Towards a circular fashion future
The current economic model can be a major barrier to progress on circularity. Yet when we consider the fashion industry – and, indeed, the world – as an ecosystem, it’s obvious that the longer-term losses that would be incurred by NOT taking action are even more serious. As Johan Rockström (who was instrumental in developing the concept of ‘planetary boundaries’) put it, “We are the first generation to know we are undermining the ability of the Earth system to support human development.”
That’s why the role of those working in the circular fashion space isn’t just about delivering practical solutions. It’s also about changing mindsets – working closely with partners across the value chain to reevaluate and rework the systems that have helped fuel the environmental crises we now face. In short, we must find ways to effectively overcome short-term risk aversion and amplify our impact in the circular fashion ecosystem. The systems and technologies are available. It’s our job to put them to work.
