The lights, the music, the front rows filled with VIPs; there’s no denying fashion knows how to put on a show. Events have become a key part of the industry calendar, offering a stage for new collections, big ideas, and bolder ambitions.

And when it comes to sustainability, many events have started to follow suit: panel talks, public commitments, glitzy side dinners discussing the future of fashion. But amid all the excitement, one question often lingers: when the spotlight fades, what’s left?

Too often, what’s missing is substance. Ambitious targets are announced, but the “how” is vague. Big challenges are raised, but the answers remain surface-level. We celebrate vision, but skip over verification.

This isn’t to say events don’t matter. On the contrary, I believe in the power of convening. The best events do more than just inspire; they create space to co-build solutions, build capability, and push the industry forward. That’s what we aim for with Cascale events: conversations that are grounded in action, and platforms that help participants connect, learn, and contribute meaningfully.

But for the industry as a whole, we need to be honest: the path to 2030 isn’t paved with promises alone. It’s built on data, standardization, and a willingness to get uncomfortable about what’s not working yet. It’s about meeting people where they are and safeguarding spaces for voices that are often marginalized, like manufacturers – who are critical to achieving sustainability goals. That’s why Cascale joined with the International Apparel Federation to convene the Manufacturer Interview Group, providing opportunities to bridge the gap between manufacturers, brands, retailers, and policymakers. And it’s where tools like the Higg Index come in. They’re not always as headline-grabbing as a new campaign or a celebrity endorsement, but they’re essential. They help companies measure impact, report consistently, and track progress against targets – providing the kind of credible evidence that turns a sustainability claim into a sustainability journey.

Because in the end, it’s not enough to say you care. The companies leading the way are the ones showing their work – publicly, transparently, and year on year.

So let’s keep the conversations going at events – and raise the bar. Let’s ask the tough questions, celebrate real wins, and make space for the complexity that comes with meaningful change. We also encourage companies to explore our membership and learn about the collaborative opportunities available.

Because sustainability shouldn’t be a moment in the spotlight; it must be the work we’re doing every day, long after the applause and PR has ended.