Levi Strauss and Marks & Spencer, working with Schneider Electric's consulting arm, have launched the Fashion Renewable Collaborative to help suppliers in their supply chains adopt renewable electricity. The initiative, announced during Climate Week in New York on Sept. 22, is open to other fashion brands and companies.
The move responds to data showing that fashion suppliers account for more than half of the industry's carbon footprint, according to an Apparel Impact Institute study cited by the companies. The fashion sector as a whole is responsible for nearly 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions annually, more than international flights and shipping combined, and could consume over a quarter of the world's carbon budget for limiting warming to 2°C by 2050 if trends continue.
The collaborative uses a structured model with online educational modules, giving suppliers a common strategy while offering tailored support. It aims to expand access to renewable energy solutions such as power purchase agreements, energy attribute certificates, local energy storage, and on-site or distributed generation. Suppliers will also get tools, market guidance, and digital education from Schneider Electric's advisory services.
"It's become abundantly clear that the most effective way forward on emissions reduction is working in partnership with suppliers," said Jennifer DuBuisson, Levi's senior director of sustainability. "The FRC enables greater support for suppliers that want to access or would like to increase use of renewable electricity but haven't been able to so far."