Press Releases / Cascale Assembles U.S. Policy Member Expert Team to Shape Industry Priorities During Key Political Period

Cascale Assembles U.S. Policy Member Expert Team to Shape Industry Priorities During Key Political Period

Policy and Legislation

December 10, 2024

Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Oakland (CA) – December 10, 2024: Cascale announces the formation of its U.S. Policy Member Expert Team (MET), an advisory group of industry leaders and experts drawn from its membership community. Designed to reflect the voices of Cascale’s diverse membership, the MET is tasked with defining Cascale’s U.S. policy priorities and guiding the organization’s regional advocacy strategy. As the nation transitions into a new legislative cycle following the presidential election, the U.S. Policy MET will play a crucial role in shaping Cascale’s approach to addressing key challenges and opportunities for the textiles, apparel, and wider consumer goods sector.

“The United States has the world’s largest fashion market, with revenue exceeding $350 billion,” said Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka, director of sustainability, Komar Brands “The U.S. Policy MET, initiated by the fashion industry stakeholders, is critical to balancing the pressing need for sustainable development in the fashion industry with consistent growth. It ensures that products and services that enhance climate resilience, equitable partnerships, better livelihoods, and nature-positive impacts can move forward effectively without compromising environmental, social, and governance safeguards under strong U.S. policies that will impact the entire world.”

The U.S. Policy MET includes representatives from leading brands, retailers, manufacturers, and affiliates, reflecting Cascale’s commitment to member-focused and member-led advocacy.

“It’s a great honor to join the U.S. Policy MET as a manufacturer,” said Shein Han, director, compliance/sustainability from GG International Manufacturing Co. Ltd. “In Cascale, the ‘CA’ stands for collective action, and ‘scale’ references scaled ambitions. This MET embodies these principles, bringing together diverse perspectives to develop strategy and iron out the details during this pivotal legislative cycle. By amplifying the voice of manufacturers through a new member engagement structure and initiatives like this, Cascale strengthens its commitment to collective action. Together with all members participating in this MET, I’m excited to explore strategies, refine the details, and work toward achieving what we set out to do. Let’s capitalize on this momentum!”

The MET is led by Cascale’s Elisabeth von Reitzenstein, senior director of policy and public affairs, and Gabriele Ballero, public affairs manager, who will focus on harnessing member insights to shape Cascale’s U.S. Public Affairs Strategy. While the MET’s focus will be on delivering actionable insights and recommendations to strengthen Cascale’s influence in the U.S., it will not engage in active lobbying.

“This initiative demonstrates the strength of member collaboration in shaping Cascale’s advocacy efforts,” said von Reitzenstein. “The U.S. Policy MET reflects our unwavering commitment to ensuring that our policy positions are firmly rooted in the insights, priorities, and shared expertise of our members. At this pivotal moment, their collective knowledge will enable us to advocate for policies that not only support industry growth but also drive meaningful innovation and sustainability. Together, we are building a unified and forward-thinking voice to address today’s challenges and seize tomorrow’s opportunities.”

The establishment of the U.S. Policy MET builds on Cascale’s commitment to region-specific advocacy. To date, Cascale’s public affairs efforts have primarily focused on EU policy, including its impactful collaboration with the Policy Hub to address critical issues within the EU. With the launch of the U.S. Policy MET, Cascale is taking a step forward in expanding its policy and public affairs focus to other regions. In the release of the 2024 Policy Priorities in April 2024, Cascale outlined plans for collaborative efforts with its global Public Affairs Strategic Council to address regional challenges in the U.S. and Asia-Pacific. This work will continue in 2025 with the formation of a Policy MET for the Asia-Pacific region, reinforcing its dedication to global, member-driven advocacy.

The primary objectives of the U.S. Policy MET are to gather member expertise, agree on the most pressing policy priorities, and assess whether to focus advocacy efforts at the federal or state level—or both. Policy priorities paper(s) may also feed into the work of the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), further aligning Cascale’s strategies with broader industry initiatives. By integrating member expertise, the MET will strengthen Cascale’s voice on critical legislative and regulatory matters, ensuring the organization remains a leading advocate during this transformative political period.

To stay informed about the progress of the U.S. Policy MET and future initiatives, stakeholders are encouraged to subscribe to Cascale newsletter(s).

ABOUT CASCALE

Cascale is the global nonprofit alliance empowering collaboration to drive equitable and restorative business practices in the consumer goods industry. Formerly known as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, Cascale owns and develops the Higg Index, which is exclusively available on Worldly, the most comprehensive sustainability data and insights platform. Cascale unites over 300 retailers, brands, manufacturers, governments, academics, and NGO/nonprofit affiliates around the globe through one singular vision: To catalyze impact at scale and give back more than we take to the planet and its people.

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News Updates / Cascale’s Brand & Retail Forum Bridges Gap Between Policy and Industry Action

Cascale’s Brand & Retail Forum Bridges Gap Between Policy and Industry Action

Policy and Legislation

December 05, 2024

Leaders from across the consumer goods sector convene in Brussels alongside policymakers to explore actionable strategies for a sustainable and equitable future.

BRUSSELS – December 5, 2024: Cascale’s Brand & Retail Forum brought together industry leaders, policymakers, and stakeholders from the global consumer goods sector for a day of critical dialogue and collaboration. Held in the European Union’s capital city of Brussels, the event provided a platform for exploring the intersection of policy and industry action under the theme, “Policy Dialogue in Action: Finding Common Ground for a Sustainable Consumer Goods Industry.”

A Call to Action for Industry Leadership

Opening the Forum, Andrew Martin, executive vice president of Cascale, emphasized the need for collective action to address evolving regulations and shifting consumer expectations. “As industry leaders, we have the unique opportunity to contribute to evidence-based policy initiatives that not only drive sustainable practices but also create a future where businesses give back more than they take. In fact, it’s a responsibility,” he said.

Dr. Amaryllis Verhoeven, acting director, Tourism, Textiles, Digital Transformation of Industry and Social Economy at European Commission, DG GROW, highlighted the EU’s Transition Pathway for Textiles and praised Cascale’s Higg Index and Decarbonization Program as examples of effective collaboration. She underscored the Commission’s commitment to aligning sustainability with economic resilience, stating, “We are here to help you, but we need to hear from you how to best do so.”

Tackling Regulatory Challenges and Opportunities

Throughout the day, panelists and breakout sessions addressed key legislative developments, including the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D) and the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR). Discussions underscored the importance of harmonization, transparency, and actionable data in ensuring compliance while fostering innovation.

Elisabeth von Reitzenstein, senior director of Public Affairs at Cascale, moderated a panel on the evolving EU policy landscape. Panelists called for increased collaboration between regulators and industry to ensure legislation remains practical while driving impactful change.

Advancing Supply Chain Transparency and InnovationInteractive sessions highlighted the transformative potential of strategic partnerships. Carolina Van Loenen, director of Stakeholder Engagement at Cascale, emphasized collaborations with Fair Wear Foundation and Open Supply Hub to advance human rights due diligence and supply chain transparency. Attendees actively participated in group discussions, sharing insights and strategies to address global supply chain challenges.

Closing with a Vision for Progress

In a closing fireside chat, Pascal Brun, vice president of Sustainability and D&I at Zalando SE, encouraged attendees to view legislation as a driver of progress. “We’ve been fighting for more legislation—now let’s embrace what is coming and get it right,” he stated.

The day concluded with a call to action, as Cascale urged attendees to transform dialogue into tangible actions, driving systemic change for a sustainable and equitable future.

Immersive EU Experience: A Rare Opportunity

As a follow-up to the Forum, attendees were invited to an exclusive Immersive EU Experience the following day. Co-hosted by Policy Hub–Circularity for Apparel and Footwear, the outing at the European Parliament offered a unique opportunity to gain insights into EU legislative processes, connect with policymakers, and deepen understanding of the regulatory landscape shaping the consumer goods industry.

About the Cascale Brand & Retail Forum: Brussels

The Cascale Brand & Retail Forum: Brussels was a pivotal event uniting EU policymakers and industry leaders to explore actionable strategies for a sustainable transition in the consumer goods industry. Scheduled for December 4–5, 2024, at the Sofitel Brussels Europe Hotel, the Forum offered attendees a unique opportunity to engage in policy-focused discussions, gain insights into the latest EU legislation impacting textiles and apparel, and collaborate on solutions that drive sustainability and equity across the industry. An exclusive Immersive EU Experience at the European Parliament on December 5 provided deeper legislative insights and networking opportunities with policy experts and industry leaders.

News Updates / Cascale, SLCP, and Worldly Co-Host Webinar on Higg FSLM to Support Social Compliance

Cascale, SLCP, and Worldly Co-Host Webinar on Higg FSLM to Support Social Compliance

Higg BRM
Policy and Legislation

Two people in a factory, wearing helmets. Machinery is visible in the background.

November 21, 2024

On November 6, Cascale, the Social & Labor Convergence Program (SLCP), and Worldly, the leading sustainability data insights platform, co-hosted the latest webinar in the Navigating Legislation & the Higg Index series, titled “Higg FSLM in Supporting Social Compliance.”

The webinar brought together industry experts to explore the evolving regulatory landscape and how Cascale’s Higg Facility Social Labor Module (Higg FSLM) based on the SLCP’s Converged Assessment Framework (CAF) can help companies navigate social compliance obligations.

This webinar, the third in the series, focused on the intersection of social compliance and legislative frameworks that impact supply chain management. Gabriele Ballero, public affairs manager at Cascale, moderated the session, which featured insights from Elisabeth von Reitzenstein, senior director of public affairs at Cascale; Orine Dsouza, senior manager, Higg Facility Tools at Cascale; Tom Mason, senior policy & stakeholder engagement manager at SLCP; and Vic Lau, customer success manager at Worldly.

The session attracted a diverse audience of sustainability specialists, ESG managers, compliance officers, and other professionals eager to understand how the Higg FSLM (based on SLCP’s CAF) aligns with emerging global regulations. Attendees engaged in a discussion on how the Higg FSLM can support compliance with regulations designed to improve human rights and forced labor standards in global supply chains.

Key Insights from the Webinar:

During the webinar, von Reitzenstein provided an overview of the rapidly evolving EU and U.S. regulations, such as the EU CS3D, the German Supply Chain Act, and the U.S. Uyghur Forced Labor Prevention Act. She highlighted the growing importance of Human Rights Due Diligence (HRDD) and how these regulations are shaping the future of supply chain transparency and accountability.

Dsouza outlined the Higg FSLM, which is based on SLCP’s CAF. The tool offers a standardized, data-driven approach to assessing social and labor compliance in manufacturing facilities. Dsouza explained that the tool helps manufacturers reduce audit fatigue, easily compare data, and allocate resources more effectively for continuous improvement.

Mason discussed how SLCP is mapping the CAF against evolving legislation and emphasized the importance of aligning social compliance tools with regulatory requirements. Mason also highlighted SLCP’s HRDD Toolkit, which supports companies in understanding how the CAF can help them to meet compliance obligations, and previewed updates to the CAF slated for Q1 2025 to enhance policy alignment.

Lau demonstrated how Worldly’s platform hosts Cascale’s Higg Index suite of tools, including the Higg FSLM, and how they have made assessment results more user-friendly. Lau explained how the platform’s summaries and scoring features enable companies to track their progress year over year to support users in improving social and labor conditions and reducing audit fatigue for supply chain facilities.

Also, during the webinar, von Reitzenstein announced a strengthened partnership between Cascale and SLCP. Together, they have developed a joint public affairs vision statement to align efforts in policy and advocacy. This collaboration ensures that tools like SLCP’s CAF and Higg FSLM are effectively integrated into social policy frameworks, driving global improvements in labor standards and ethical practices within the industry.

The Higg FSLM, supported by the strategic collaboration between Cascale, SLCP, and Worldly, will continue to evolve to meet the needs of companies navigating regulatory requirements. Cascale’s Navigating Legislation & the Higg Index webinar series will continue into 2025, offering more in-depth discussions on how the Higg Index tools can support compliance with new and emerging legislation.

To stay informed about upcoming webinars and the latest updates from Cascale, be sure to subscribe to our newsletter.

Press Releases / Cascale Puts Sustainability Policy in Spotlight as Brand and Retail Leaders Convene in Brussels

Cascale Puts Sustainability Policy in Spotlight as Brand and Retail Leaders Convene in Brussels

Policy and Legislation

November 19, 2024

Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Oakland (CA) – November 19, 2024: As the policy landscape evolves at an unprecedented pace, understanding the implications of these changes is more critical than ever. From the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) to the Ecodesing for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) , staying ahead of regulations isn’t just about compliance – it’s about positioning business for long-term success. To ensure that brands, retailers, manufacturers and supply chain partners in the apparel, footwear, textiles, and broader consumer goods sectors are well-equipped to keep pace, Cascale, formerly the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, will host its Brand & Retail Forum: Brussels on December 4, sponsored by Worldly, the most comprehensive sustainability data insights platform and exclusive licensee of the Higg Index.

“The competitiveness of the apparel and textile sector relies on circularity, digitalization and innovation for the good of the environment, consumers, workers and businesses alike,” said Dr. Amaryllis Verhoeven, Acting Director, Tourism, Textiles, Digital Transformation of Industry and Social Economy, European Commission, DG GROW, who will give the opening keynote.

“The urgency of the climate crisis and the critical need for social justice in supply chains places the apparel and textile sector at a pivotal moment of transformation,” said Andrew Martin, Cascale executive vice president. “As we navigate these changes, collaboration between policymakers, industry leaders, and stakeholders is essential to building a sustainable, competitive, and future-proof consumer goods industry. By focusing our efforts on more equitable participation and measurable progress, Cascale is laying the groundwork to ensure the sector thrives while contributing to the EU’s broader goals of sustainability and consumer well-being. Brand & Retail Forum: Brussels provides a critical opportunity to shape the sustainability conversation for the coming decade, and build a more sustainable and equitable future.”

“Our partnership with Cascale is grounded in a shared commitment to helping apparel and consumer goods businesses make measurable progress on social and environmental sustainability and prepare for regulatory requirements,” said Scott Raskin, CEO of Worldly. “We’re providing companies with the critical data and insights they need to understand their impacts and make informed decisions to drive improvements. This collaboration is about empowering businesses to take meaningful steps forward, transforming their operations in ways that benefit both people and the planet.”

The event’s theme – “Policy Dialogue in Action: Finding Common Ground for a Sustainable Consumer Goods Industry” – speaks directly to the urgent need to collectively shape the future of sustainability. Cascale believes that regulation is essential to driving meaningful change and is working diligently to identify and address current and potential gaps between the Higg Index and evolving legislation with key stakeholders, including Worldly. At the Brand & Retail Forum: Brussels, attendees will engage in discussions with EU leadership, network with key policymakers and top industry leaders driving the regulatory agenda, and explore current and upcoming EU legislation. In addition to the December 4 event, which is open to the public, attendees will also have the exclusive opportunity to participate in an immersive experience on December 5, hosted at the European Parliament. This special limited-availability side event, which is not open to media attendees, will include a private tour and a meet and greet with MEPs providing deeper legislative insights and networking opportunities.

“At Zalando, we encourage EU policymakers to establish a consistent regulatory framework that will not only enhance consumer trust but also provide more legal guidance for companies,” said Pascal Brun, Vice President of Sustainability and Diversity & Inclusion at Zalando, who will engage in a closing fireside chat. “Both the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) challenge the industry to set higher standards in measuring and mitigating environmental and social impacts. By embracing these directives, we aim to facilitate more informed choices for our customers, empowering them to make decisions that align with their values”

“The transition towards sustainability in the textile sector requires a technical and holistic approach, addressing all aspects of the industry,” said Marina Prados Espínola, Co-Director of the Policy Hub – Circularity for Apparel & Footwear. “At the Policy Hub – Circularity for Apparel & Footwear, we believe that implementing this transition must account for the diverse realities of the sector, with ongoing discussions on technical details to understand precise impacts and drive meaningful change. Events like the Cascale Brands & Retail Forum offer an invaluable opportunity to delve into policy developments and align with political priorities in the new EU agenda for textiles sustainability and circularity.”

Additional speakers include: Magnus Dorsch, Head of Corporate Sustainability, About You; Dan Dionisie, Head of Unit, Company Law, DG JUST, European Commission; Matjaz Malgaj, Head of Unit, ESPR, DG ENV, European Commission; Romane Malysza, Public Affairs Strategist, Textile Exchange; Greta Koch, Parliamentary Assistant to MEP Axel Voss (EPP), European Parliament; Marie-Pierre Vedrenne (Renew), Member of the European Parliament; Katarzyna Sulisz, Senior Policy Officer, Federation of the European Sporting Goods Industry (FESI); Chelsea Murtha, Senior Director, Sustainability, AAFA; Dorothy Lovell, Garment and Footwear Lead, OECD Centre for Responsible Business Conduct; Krishna Manda, Vice President of Corporate Sustainability, Lenzing AG; John Armstrong, Chief Technology Officer, Worldly; Tom Mason, Senior Manager, Public Affairs & Stakeholder Engagement, SLCP; and Lisa Süss, Head of Industry Alignment, Fair Wear Foundation, among others. Please visit this page for more information or to register for the Brand & Retail Forum: Brussels 2024, sponsored by Worldly.

ABOUT CASCALE

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Press Releases / Cascale, Worldly Publish Analysis on California’s Climate Laws

Cascale, Worldly Publish Analysis on California’s Climate Laws

Policy and Legislation

Cascale and Worldly have published an analysis of California’s new climate laws, which are set to reshape corporate environmental reporting in the United States.

November 13, 2024

Amsterdam, Hong Kong, Oakland (CA) – November 13, 2024: Cascale (formerly the Sustainable Apparel Coalition), the global nonprofit alliance for the consumer goods industry, and Worldly, the planet’s most comprehensive sustainability data insights platform, have published an analysis of California’s new climate laws, which are set to reshape corporate environmental reporting in the United States. The paper examines the implications of two key laws—the Climate Corporate Data Accountability Act (SB 253) and the Climate-Related Financial Risk Act (SB 261)—which will require businesses operating in California to disclose greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and assess climate-related financial risks.

This timely analysis provides critical insights for companies, especially in the consumer goods industry, as they navigate the increasing demands for transparency and environmental accountability. The paper offers a view into how Cascale’s Higg Index tools, exclusively available on Worldly, and the Product Impact Calculator can help businesses prepare for the regulations.

Why California’s Climate Laws Matter

California’s climate laws represent a major shift in corporate environmental responsibility, going beyond current federal standards and establishing new benchmarks for GHG emissions reporting in the United States. As California leads the way, businesses across the U.S. must prepare for these changes, which could influence future national and global reporting requirements.

“These laws are a critical step forward for addressing climate impacts, not just for the U.S. but globally,” said Elisabeth von Reitzenstein, senior director of policy and public affairs at Cascale. “California’s Climate Accountability Package arrives at a pivotal time, as businesses worldwide face growing pressure to demonstrate their climate commitments. By requiring companies to disclose GHG emissions across their entire supply chain, California is setting a new benchmark for transparency and accountability. While global harmonization remains our ultimate goal, we acknowledge national and regional specifics to ensure progress. Strengthening enforcement at the national level, while drawing on established global standards and industry initiatives, will therefore be key to driving meaningful progress on combating climate change.”

The analysis breaks down the core components of the legislation. SB 253 applies to companies with over $1 billion in revenue and mandates disclosure of Scope 1, 2, and 3 GHG emissions, while SB 261 requires companies with at least $500 million in revenue to submit biennial climate risk assessments. These laws pose challenges for businesses with complex supply chains, such as those in the apparel, footwear, textiles, and wider consumer goods industries, as businesses must now track emissions data across their entire value chain. The report also explores the legal challenges to the laws and examines how the outcome of the U.S. Presidential election may impact broader climate regulations at the federal level.

The Time to Prepare Is Now

With key deadlines for compliance quickly approaching, businesses must take proactive steps to prepare. Cascale and Worldly are committed to supporting companies in understanding and meeting new requirements through practical solutions, industry expertise, and strategic guidance. The Higg Product Tools, the Higg Facility Environmental Module (Higg FEM), and the Product Impact Calculator, exclusively available on Worldly, can help businesses prepare for the regulations as they understand where their supply chain emissions are coming from and identify opportunities for improvement.

“The California climate laws are part of the growing global pattern of holding businesses accountable for their environmental impacts,” said JR Siegel, VP of Sustainability at Worldly. “To understand their impact reduction opportunities and report Scope 3 emissions more accurately, businesses need primary data from across their entire supply chains.”

Download the Full Report Today

To support businesses in navigating these new regulations, Cascale and Worldly have made the full deep dive analysis available for download. This report details the Climate Accountability Package, including SB 253 and SB 261, and explores the impact of both laws on the apparel and footwear industry. It also offers guidance on how companies can begin preparing for these reporting requirements.

Download the Full Publication

ABOUT CASCALE

ABOUT WORLDLY

Worldly is the planet’s most comprehensive sustainability data insights platform, trusted by 40,000+ major brands, retailers, and manufacturers in fashion, outdoor, home goods, toys, and more. Worldly uniquely collects high-resolution primary data specific to companies’ value chains, operations, and products, providing insight into true impacts across carbon, water, chemistry, and labor. Featuring the most comprehensive source of ESG data for global manufacturers and the largest library of materials and product impacts, Worldly empowers businesses to scale responsibility into their global operations, faster and more accurately. Hosting, connecting with, and supporting the leading industry solutions and methodologies, including ZDHC, Bluesign, and the Higg Index — developed and owned by the global nonprofit alliance Cascale — Worldly delivers the insights businesses need to reduce their impact, comply with emerging regulatory and financial disclosure requirements, and meet the expectations of a new generation of customers. www.worldly.io

Blogs / Why Now is a Crucial Time to Focus on Fashion Policy in the EU

Why Now is a Crucial Time to Focus on Fashion Policy in the EU

Policy and Legislation

Close up photo of white and tan clothes hanging on a rack

Lee Green

October 29, 2024

As we approach the end of 2024, the textile, apparel and footwear industry, as well as broader consumer goods, is at a crucial juncture.

The regulatory landscape, especially in the EU, is rapidly evolving, placing new demands on businesses across the value chain. Cascale membership considers it a priority in recent member surveys. With soon-to-be-applicable regulations like the Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD), the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD), the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and many more, there is no better time to focus on policy and its implications for the future of our industry.

For both manufacturers and brands, these regulations represent not only a challenge but also an opportunity. Companies need to act swiftly to ensure compliance while leveraging sustainability as a competitive advantage. This is why Cascale is hosting the Brand & Retail Forum in Brussels on December 4, 2024, to bring together leaders, policymakers, and industry experts to discuss these critical issues.

Impacts of CSRD and CSDDD Across the Supply Chain

The CSRD, which requires companies to disclose detailed information on sustainability risks, targets, and impacts, is set to have far-reaching consequences for businesses operating within the EU. It demands that companies report on environmental, social, and governance (ESG) factors more comprehensively than ever before. While these regulations were initially targeted at large companies, they will soon affect smaller businesses and suppliers, requiring the entire value chain to elevate their reporting standards.

Similarly, the CSDDD mandates that businesses conduct due diligence across their supply chains, focusing on human rights, labor conditions, and environmental risks. This is particularly relevant for companies that operate globally, sourcing materials from regions with varying environmental and social standards. Meeting these requirements will be a significant task, especially for manufacturers in the Global South. Luckily, many manufacturers, such as Busana Group in Indonesia, are hopeful and committed to staying the course to create a sustainable future for our industry.

The challenge for businesses is clear: compliance requires not only transparency but also accountability across multiple tiers of their supply chains. For companies in the apparel, textile and footwear industry, this means understanding where emissions, waste, and labor issues arise—and taking concrete steps to address them.

The Role of Tools in Supporting Compliance

Recent Higg Index updates, developed with input from hundreds of stakeholders, including manufacturers, reflect the need for transparency and consistent data in sustainability reporting. By helping companies streamline compliance with EU directives, such as how Higg BRM supports CSRD reporting obligations, the Higg Index tools serve as essential resources for businesses looking to future-proof their operations in the face of regulatory changes, and Cascale is positioned to lead and support.

Policy changes can be daunting, especially for companies trying to navigate complex supply chains. That’s why we are committed to educating and supporting our Cascale members through these shifts. Through ongoing collaborative work with the Policy Hub as well as timely educational resources, Cascale’s role is to act as a bridge, offering our members the guidance and tools they need to succeed. Our goal is to ensure that businesses, from small manufacturers to global brands, have the knowledge and resources to comply with current regulations like CSRD and CSDDD, and incoming legislation, without compromising their competitive edge.

What Companies Need to Focus On Now

As we move toward 2025, companies must prioritize decarbonization, supply chain transparency, and ethical practices. The Brand & Retail Forum in Brussels offers an ideal platform to dive into these issues, explore solutions, and develop strategies that will enable businesses to thrive in this new regulatory environment. Beyond 2024, companies that integrate sustainability into their core business strategy will not only comply with regulations but also drive long-term growth and resilience.

We invite all industry leaders, from brands to manufacturers, to join us on December 4 for a day of insightful discussions, networking, and actionable takeaways. This is your opportunity to stay ahead of the curve, ensure your business is compliant, and contribute to a more sustainable and equitable future for the textile and apparel industry.

News Updates / Cascale Publishes Q3 2024 Global Legislative Update: New Worker Protections, Sustainability, and Climate Regulations

Cascale Publishes Q3 2024 Global Legislative Update: New Worker Protections, Sustainability, and Climate Regulations

Policy and Legislation

Stack of knitted winter sweaters on wooden background

October 09, 2024

Cascale, the global nonprofit alliance formerly known as the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, has published its third Global Legislative Update for its members.

The comprehensive quarterly report offers a thorough overview of legislative actions from July to September 2024 affecting the textile and apparel industry across the EU, U.S., Asia, and other key markets. With over 300 leading organizations, Cascale recognizes the importance of staying informed on policy shifts to support sustainable practices and navigate evolving regulations.

The latest update highlights significant regulatory advancements focused on worker protections, environmental sustainability, and climate-related disclosures, with key developments in regions like the U.S., EU, and Asia. These updates emphasize stricter compliance requirements across the industry, particularly in addressing climate change and promoting responsible supply chains.

Below is a summary of key insights from the Q3 Global Legislative Update, offering a glimpse of the full report. The full report is available exclusively to Cascale members on our members-only platform, Cascale Connect. Cascale members are encouraged to log in to access the latest Global Legislative Update.

Key Developments

Several regulatory developments designed to protect workers came into play. For example, the United States proposed its first-ever rule to protect workers from extreme heat, while Indonesia passed a new law strengthening the rights of working mothers.
Environmentally and socially responsible supply chains gained momentum around the globe. Mainland China, India, and the United States have made strides toward adopting measures that promote more sustainable product practices. In the EU, the Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation (ESPR) and the Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CS3D) entered into force – on July 18 and July 25, respectively.
In the EU, newly re-elected European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen presented a set of ‘Political Guidelines’ for her second term of office. The guidelines include a commitment to staying the course on the goals set out in the European Green Deal. The guidelines will inform the Commission’s legislative agenda over the next five years.
In the United States, California passed an amendment granting a six-month extension to the California Air Resources Board (CARB) to finish its rulemaking and adopt regulations for reporting entities’ annual greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions disclosures under the state’s 2023 climate disclosure laws. The amendment does not alter the compliance deadline, which starts in 2026 for large private and public companies doing business in the state. California also signed into law the Responsible Textile Recovery Act (SB 707), introducing an extended producer responsibility (EPR) program for waste apparel and textile articles from 2028.
The United Nations Climate Change Conference, or Conference of Parties (COP) presidency, currently held by Azerbaijan, announced plans for what it hopes to achieve at the COP29 in Baku this November. A key agenda priority is the creation of a climate fund, capitalized with voluntary contributions from fossil fuel-producing countries and companies. Global climate adaptation finance remains insufficient.

Key Implications

Recent worker-related regulatory developments worldwide signify an overall strengthening of protection of employee wellbeing and introduce additional compliance requirements for companies across industries. For example, employers may need to designate a ‘heat safety officer.’
The EU’s ESPR aims to reduce the negative impact of products throughout their lifecycle. The use of life cycle assessment (LCA) data is central to ecodesign and the ESPR. Product-related sustainability data will be registered in the Digital Product Passport (DPP), a key component of ESPR. This includes data on its materials, manufacturing processes, end-of-life options, and environmental impact. The textile, apparel, footwear, and consumer goods sectors, with their often complex and lengthy supply chains, are expected to be significantly affected by ESPR. Complementary to the Regulation itself, a Delegated Act for Textiles is currently being developed, which will lay down the detailed components of how the regulation is to be implemented for the apparel and textiles sector.
The European Commission’s ‘Political Guidelines’ introduce new initiatives, such as the Circular Economy Act and Clean Industrial Deal, which could be relevant to Cascale’s impact pillar ‘combating climate change.’ Other initiatives, including a European Water Resilience Strategy, a chemicals industry package, and a Vision for Agriculture and Food, may have indirect impacts on environmental sustainability and resource efficiency.
California’s two climate disclosure laws go beyond the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (SEC)’s draft climate disclosure rule (currently on hold pending court challenges) and most public companies’ current practices, particularly in reporting Scope 3 emissions. Given the size of California’s market, the state often acts as a ‘de facto’ national regulator. Harmonized legislative frameworks would be preferable for many companies and are also a key policy priority for Cascale members.

In the next few weeks, Cascale and Worldly will publish a deep-dive analysis of the latest developments and implications of the recent California climate laws. Join our mailing list and make sure this new deep-dive is delivered straight to your inbox when it’s released.

Looking Ahead

Demands for better protection for workers in the context of climate change will increase, especially in light of the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) recent warning that over 70% of the global workforce is at risk of extreme heat. Industries reliant on manual labor are at the highest risk.
As climate’s overall impact on health comes into greater focus, governments will likely seek to offload some of the economic cost onto the private sector.
In the EU, while the new Commissioner has indicated a continuation of climate policy, climate change could become less of a priority following the European Parliament’s shift to the right in the June elections. Climate action will increasingly be framed in the context of industrial competitiveness.
The outcome of the U.S. presidential election in November could significantly influence the pace of the country’s — and the world’s — green energy transition. Vice President and Democratic nominee Kamala Harris’ energy policy position includes support for the energy transition and international agreements on climate change, coupled with increased environmental regulation. The energy policies of former President and Republican nominee Donald Trump would focus on the deregulation of the fossil fuels sector.
A Harris administration could potentially strengthen the U.S.‘s commitment to international climate agreements, such as the Paris Agreement, which would have significant implications for fashion’s carbon footprint. A re-election of Trump to the presidency would likely lead to U.S. disengagement from climate negotiations, potentially hampering global efforts to mitigate climate change.

Cascale’s Public Affairs team is committed to keeping members updated on critical legislative developments and their potential impacts. These updates align with Cascale’s strategic plan and policy priorities and are designed to address the most pressing needs of our members. For more detailed insights and resources, Cascale members can access exclusive content via Cascale Connect here.

Stay Informed

Cascale will host a Brand & Retail Forum in Brussels, Belgium, on December 4-5, 2024. The event offers a dynamic mix of policy-focused discussions and broader industry insights, all designed to empower Cascale members and stakeholders in the consumer goods sectors. Learn more and register today.

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Blogs / Driving Sustainable Change: Our Role in the PEF Initiative

Driving Sustainable Change: Our Role in the PEF Initiative

Policy and Legislation

Close up of a natural fiber in a tight spiral

Jeremy Lardeau

June 21, 2024

As we strive to create a more sustainable and equitable consumer goods industry, our involvement in developing the Product Environmental Footprint (PEF) Category Rules (PEFCR) for apparel and footwear is pivotal.

The European Commission has engaged Cascale to convene a multi-stakeholder Technical Secretariat (TS) to set a standardized methodology for product environmental impact assessment.

This initiative underscores our commitment to fostering industry collaboration and ensuring that sustainability claims are reliable and verifiable. By facilitating the development of the PEFCR, we are supporting the EU in establishing a common language for calculating environmental footprints, which is essential for combating greenwashing and promoting transparency.

The cost of participation as a voting member in the TS, set at 40,000 EUR a year over five years, reflects the comprehensive scope and extended timeline of this critical project. This fee was determined collectively to support the development of the PEFCR, with a minor contribution from the EU Commission during the COVID crisis.

Addressing concerns about bias in the PEF methodology, it’s important to note that the data used is managed by the EU Commission and recognized data providers, ensuring that it is scientifically grounded and unbiased. The PEF methodology itself does not favor any particular material but aims to provide a reliable foundation for sustainability assessments.

All organizations interested in joining the TS were accepted, ensuring an inclusive and comprehensive approach to developing the PEFCR. Our role is to facilitate this collaborative effort, bringing together diverse perspectives to drive meaningful change in our industry.

It’s crucial to highlight that the PEF is an initiative driven by the democratically elected European Parliament, not by the industry or Cascale. From a technical perspective, the methodology is overseen by the Joint Research Center of the EU, which guarantees that the approach is fair, unbiased, and science-based.

We remain dedicated to our mission of leading the industry toward sustainable practices, and our support for the PEF initiative is a significant step in that direction. Together, we can create a consumer goods industry that gives more than it takes – to the planet and its people.

News Updates / Cascale Weighs Brand Response to Upcoming Legislation

Cascale Weighs Brand Response to Upcoming Legislation

Policy and Legislation

Elisabeth von Reitzensteinv at the Innovation Forum in Amsterdam 2024.

May 13, 2024

Elisabeth von Reitzenstein, senior director of policy and public affairs at Cascale, joined a panel at Innovation Forum earlier this month on how brands can be more reactive to incoming legislation. Moderated by Ian Welsh, publishing director at Innovation Forum, the panel also included Kresse Wesling, co-founder and director of CBE, Elvis & Kresse, and Ilya Kleyner, lead sustainability solutions architect at Altruistiq.

Von Reitzenstein gave an anecdote, noting the progress brands have made over the last 15 years on their public affairs activities. She emphasized the importance of brands stepping up their resources to be proactive, and avoid the potential reputational risk of only taking action when required to comply.

She welcomed a wider collaborative approach, and encouraged brands to be actively involved in policy discussions, sharing knowledge and developing joint industry positions within industry organizations and initiatives such as the Policy Hub. Von Reitzenstein detailed the importance of prioritization of collective action along the supply chain, including transparency to identify and address sustainability issues. She explained the significance behind “Cascale’s” new name, which is “Collective Action at Scale” and reiterated the fact that this collective action had to happen together with manufacturers.

She highlighted the Higg Index suite of tools as an example brands can use to understand and improve their sustainability performance. Cascale is committed to continuously updating the Higg Index tools to meet the needs of its members, users and the broader industry and support them in their compliance journeys and beyond.

This year, Cascale launched a webinar series sharing how the Higg Index tools have been mapped to existing and upcoming legislation, and how it plans to evolve the tools accordingly. The organization has also shared and continues to develop resources for members and Higg Index users to ensure they’re well-informed and supported in their compliance journeys.

News Updates / Cascale Releases 2024 Policy Priorities, Urging Collective Action for Industry-Wide Change

Cascale Releases 2024 Policy Priorities, Urging Collective Action for Industry-Wide Change

Policy and Legislation

April 18, 2024

Cascale has released its 2024 Policy Priorities.

Rooted in the organization’s strategic plan, Cascale outlines eight key policy areas of focus aimed at fostering impactful change and driving industry-wide transformation by aligning policymakers and stakeholders toward sustainable solutions.

“As we face mounting environmental and social challenges, collective action is essential to achieve a more sustainable future,” said Elisabeth von Reitzenstein, senior director of public affairs at Cascale. “Through these policy priorities, we call on policymakers to work hand-in-hand with industry stakeholders to create a level playing field and foster innovation that benefits both people and the planet.”

As the world prepares for the impact of key elections in pivotal countries like India, Pakistan, the U.S., the U.K., and within the European Parliament, 2024 presents a unique opportunity to shape policy and influence decision-making. Cascale recognizes the importance of articulating its global policy priorities to policymakers worldwide, aiming to advance a more sustainable consumer goods industry. The policy priorities were developed collaboratively with Cascale’s Public Affairs Strategic Council, which is composed of globally dispersed public affairs specialists from brands, manufacturers, NGOs, and trade associations.

In the face of pressing global challenges such as environmental degradation, social injustice, and economic volatility, Cascale’s strategic plan centers around three foundational impact goals: combating climate change, ensuring decent work for all, and shaping a nature-positive future. Cascale’s 2024 Policy Priorities, which directly stem from its strategic plan and impact goals, include eight identified priorities for global policymakers:

Harmonizing global regulatory frameworks
Fostering collaborative partnerships
Driving change through data collection
Promoting low-carbon tech and a sustainable, just, and fair energy transition
Promoting responsible business and purchasing practices
Streamlining circular design practices.
Establishing a common framework for green claims
Harmonizing waste mitigation efforts

A key message across the eight priorities is the imperative of data-driven solutions and the necessity of fostering collaborative partnerships between policymakers, businesses, and civil society. Cascale champions a balanced approach that acknowledges both the imperative of global standards and the nuances of regional contexts.

On the EU level and in line with Cascale’s collaborative spirit, Cascale partners with the Policy Hub, an initiative that unites the apparel and footwear industry to speak in one voice and propose policies that accelerate circular practices. This collaboration ensures the alignment of policy recommendations and synergy in the organizations’ advocacy efforts. The Policy Hub’s “Policy Recommendations for the 2024-2029 EU Mandate” serves as the EU-specific policy papers for Cascale. Additionally, Cascale is planning further collaborative efforts with its global Public Affairs Strategic Council members to draft region-specific policy recommendations for the Asia-Pacific and U.S. regions.

Collaborating closely with key partners like Worldly, the exclusive platform provider of the Higg Index suite of tools, alongside other external stakeholders and policymakers, Cascale is dedicated to empowering its members to navigate emerging requirements effectively. Together, we’re determined to drive positive, lasting change within the consumer goods industry, forging a path toward a more sustainable and equitable future for all.