Half a year into the coronavirus crisis, fashion executives are divided on what impact the pandemic will have on their sustainable investments.

A Sourcing Journal webinar on July 15 presented findings from a U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol survey, including the result that 43 percent of executives see the pandemic having a positive effect on their sustainability momentum, while 40 percent expect a downturn.

At the same time, consumers are becoming more aware of the environmental and social cost of their clothing purchases. However, shoppers’ willingness to spend more for responsible apparel and footwear is being questioned as widespread financial hardship may make them keener on deals.

Against this backdrop, it is becoming more important for brands to prove their values and that their responsibility claims are more than just lip service.

Listen to this webinar to learn:

• How COVID-19 will change consumers’ sustainability demands
• How companies’ sustainability priorities are shifting due to the pandemic
• The role that third-party verification can play in proving sustainability claims
• The motivation and goals behind the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol
• How Gap Inc. approaches sustainability across its portfolio of brands
• What retailers can do to help consumers make better choices

Speakers:

• Dr. Gary Adams, president of the U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol
• Alice Hartley, senior manager, sustainable innovation at Gap Inc.
• Liza Schillo, senior manager, global sustainability integration, Levi Strauss & Co. and U.S. Cotton Trust Protocol consultant board member
• Caletha Crawford, publisher, Sourcing Journal (moderator)