Commitment of Collective Action for the Sustainability Vision & Objectives of the Textile and Garment sector

This Commitment of Collective Action is the commitment that demonstrate the consent of organizations and companies who are current or will be members of the VITAS Sustainable Committee to take collective action for realization of the Sustainability Vision and Objectives of the Textile and Garment (T&G) sector.

The fashion, apparel and textile sector has a significant impact on planetary systems. It ranks amongst the world’s most polluting industries, while in 2015 the sector was responsible for the consumption of 79 billion cubic metres of water, the emission of 1,715 million tons of CO2 and the production of 92 million tons of waste. Under a business-as-usual scenario, it is estimated these numbers will increase by at least 50 per cent by 2030.

Recognizing that planetary systems – from biodiversity to water to climate – are already failing and that future demand for apparel is likely to increase and place further strain upon our planet and communities, VITAS Sustainability Committee, with members and partners from various organizations, T&G brands and companies develop and committ to improving sustainability across the sector.

Vision

All stakeholders, including public, private and civil society organizations, are fully committed to the goal by 2030 for green transformation of the Textile and Garment (T&G) sector to become more environmental friendly, job creation and decent working conditions. Sustainable development of the T&G sector will contribute to the realization of the United Nation Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), specifically Goals No. 1 (No Poverty), 5 (Gender Equality), 6 (Clean Water and Sanitation), 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy), 8 (Decent Work and Economic Growth), 12 (Responsible Consumption and Production) and 17 (Partnership for the Goals)

Objective

1)       Until 2023, T&G companies who are current and will be the member of the VITAS Sustainability Committee will reduce 15% energy consumption and 20% water consumption

2)      By 2022, 03 international brands become committee's members and committ resource efficiency KPIs for their suppliers.

3)      By 2023, 02 textile IPs improve energy efficiency and water circularity.

4)      By 2023, 03 multi-company collective bargaining agreements will be signed among VITAS members, bringing real benefits for participating companies and workers

5)      By 2023, 03 international social dialogue forums to discuss on key issues of business performance and labour conditions in textile sector

Coming together for collective action, we can assure the Sustainability Vision and Objectives of the T&G sector are timely realized, regularly reviewed and adjusted for the ultimately bringing economic, social and environmental benefits to Vietnam and Mekong region.

Signed off

List of Vitas member enterprises join to commit of having collective action