Explore our Key Takeaways for Fashion from COP28

Global Fashion agenda at COP28.

The fashion industry has gradually been amplifying its presence at COP, but historically has not received the same level of attention as other sectors. At this year’s COP28 in Dubai, fashion had a notable presence, and we saw promising commitments emerge, however there is still much more action needed to reach 2030 and 2050 targets.

Important learnings for the fashion industry from the two-week summit centred around decarbonisation, readily available solutions, material innovations, and loss and damage funding. Discover the key takeaways for fashion from COP28 here.

At COP28, Global Fashion Agenda (GFA) highlighted the industry's potential for positive change, showcasing solutions, tools, and pioneers that are leading the way.  GFA hosted two significant events focused on Taking Stock of the Fashion Industry’s Progress towards Net Positive and Collective Financing in the Fashion Industry.

GFA, in collaboration with UN Climate Change (UNFCCC), hosted a leadership roundtable discussing the industry's progress towards a net-positive future. Distinguished experts contributed to the Assembly, including representatives from the European Commission, UNFCCC, BESTSELLER, H&M Group, Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, Hirdaramani Group, Social & Labor Convergence Program, Apparel Impact Institute, Fair Labor Association, and Threading Change. The session first explored insights from The GFA Monitor 2023, which was launched on the first day of COP28, and secondly focused on collective financing in the fashion industry.

Key sentiments from the roundtable included the need to develop an inclusive and holistic approach to ensure meaningful dialogue with all stakeholders, from policymakers and youth representatives to local communities and manufacturers, and to anchor actions in sustainable development. The panel also stressed the multifaceted nature of sustainability, considering not only carbon reduction but also waste management, end-of-life cycles, social justice, and the impact on workers' rights, gender, and racial justice. 

A key takeaway was that brands and retailers have a role in catalysing action by incentivising stakeholders, such as suppliers, to adopt sustainable practices. Long-term collaboration, partnerships, and deeper relationships can create stability and positive changes within the supply chain.

COP holds a unique place in GFA's heart as our Global Fashion Summit originated as a COP15 side event in Copenhagen in 2009. With 2024 marking 15 years since our first Summit, GFA will continue to lead the charge in reshaping the fashion industry's future with the upcoming Global Fashion Summit: Copenhagen Edition, in May 2024.

We invite you to mark your calendars for next year’s Summit, where the global fashion sector’s most credible visionaries will take to the events historic stage. Stay tuned for more updates. – Global Fashion Agency