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Industry Decarbonization Roadmap
Driving systemic change for a low-carbon future
About IDR
The Industry Decarbonization Roadmap (IDR) is a comprehensive, industry-wide initiative designed to accelerate measurable progress on decarbonization within the global textile, apparel and footwear value chain. Developed initially through a collaboration between Cascale and the Apparel Impact Institute (Aii), with expert support from RESET Carbon, the IDR aims to consolidate diverse industry efforts into a unified and supportive plan.
The IDR addresses systemic barriers by aligning the industry’s efforts, mobilizing collective action, and scaling proven solutions. It empowers brands, retailers, manufacturers, and suppliers to work collaboratively to implement meaningful greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reductions. By fostering industry-wide alignment, driving transparency, and amplifying effective low-carbon solutions, the IDR positions the sector to achieve lasting impact and accelerate the transition to a sustainable, low-carbon future.
Our Goal
Enable a 45% reduction of GHGs by 2030 by powering a global movement toward a sustainable, resilient future.
The IDR will accelerate the deployment of decarbonization strategies where they can have the most impact, initially targeting the 10% of facilities — roughly 1800 identified through Higg Facility Environmental Module (Higg FEM) data, primarily textile wet processing mills (Tier 2) — that account for over 80% of the measured carbon emissions in the supply chain.
The climate crisis demands immediate action—and the apparel industry plays a significant role in the solution. The IDR offers stakeholders the opportunity to unite, collaborate, and accelerate efforts to meet the industry’s decarbonization goals. It’s not just about reducing emissions—it’s about building resilience, improving operational efficiency, and unlocking new business opportunities.
Cascale formalized the Decarbonization Program in 2021, requiring Brand & Retailer members to set Science-Based Targets (SBTs) with the aim of reducing carbon emissions.
In 2023, in collaboration with Nike and the Target Corporation, we established the Manufacturer Climate Action Program (MCAP), which empowers manufacturers to set Science-Aligned Targets (SATs) and reduce carbon emissions. MCAP engages Cascale members and non-members alike; manufacturer members are required to set SATs.
Nearly 60 percent of Cascale members have set or begun the process of setting SBTs or SATs, and MCAP has engaged over 60 manufacturers.
Yet progress is not happening fast enough – especially in manufacturing hubs, primarily located in the Global South, where the impacts of climate change are painfully clear. Cascale recognizes that the urgency of the climate crisis and its compounding effects on workers must be mitigated. Most importantly, successful strategies to address climate-induced risks must be co-created and implemented collaboratively with stakeholders, highlighting manufacturer voices.
Where Do Majority Emissions Come From?
In 2023, data from the Higg Index’s Higg Facility Environmental Module (Higg FEM) revealed that just 10% of facilities — roughly 1800, primarily textile wet processing mills (Tier 2) — account for over 80% of carbon emissions in the supply chain. Supported by analysis from RESET Carbon, this insight was the catalyst for the IDR, ensuring that resources are focused on those key hotspots that will drive maximum impact.
Ready to Take Action?
Learn more about the IDR today and help shape the future of the textile and apparel industry.
