To achieve sustainable change — in both senses of the word “sustainable” — the industry is going to need bright ideas to rethink its systems.
The upcoming second annual Sourcing Journal LA Sustainability Summit on Nov. 13 will focus on the solutions that could support this ground-up revamp, ranging from technology-driven efficiencies to material innovations. By convening sustainability leaders and decision-makers, the aim is to inspire attendees to think differently about their own approaches to the shared end goal: a more responsible, resilient industry.
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“At times like this, when uncertainty reigns, innovation is an absolute necessity to sustain momentum going forward,” said Peter Sadera, Sourcing Journal’s editor in chief.
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Held on the campus at ASU FIDM in downtown Los Angeles, the summit’s sessions are designed to get attendees up to speed on developments that will affect their businesses. Centered on the theme “A New Way of Thinking,” the full-day event will feature a roster of speakers and a content program that puts a local lens on top-of-mind topics.
Los Angeles is one of the last strongholds of apparel production in the U.S., and a panel will cover the relationship between nearshoring and reducing fashion’s impact. Speakers who are successfully manufacturing locally will discuss what can be gained by moving production Stateside — including quicker demand responses and reduced shipping-related emissions — while getting candid about what onshoring actually takes.
California is also a harbinger for sustainable legislation. Take, for instance, the landmark SB 707 Responsible Textile Recovery Act that mandates the reuse and recycling of textiles. The state is not stopping there; its legislature has introduced other laws that would hold companies accountable for their emissions and toxic chemical footprints. Hear what is next for the Golden State’s legislative landscape in an informative talk.
Just as California is a pioneer in regulating the industry, the denim sector stands out for its early adoption of sustainable practices. Denim manufacturers and brands will join the mainstage to discuss their companies’ progress and the next targets for innovation.
The innovation theme also encompasses new materials. A panel will look at how next-gen fiber makers are working to scale up their creations from concept to commercial availability. They will share what hurdles they have hit and explain how they are circumventing these roadblocks.
At the summit, the Baker Tilly Fashion Innovator Award will be presented to a brand for outstanding environmental innovation. After the winner is announced, they will discuss how their company is approaching sustainability.
While learning is critical, collaboration is also required to implement these solutions and reach critical scale. Throughout the day, there will be many opportunities to connect with fellow attendees to put the innovations seen on stage into action.
“Our experience in Los Angeles a year ago was really special to me,” said Sadera. “The camaraderie, collegiality and collaboration in the room renewed my hope that change is possible. I’m anticipating another fantastic day of education, networking and solution-oriented ideas.”