The apparel industry saw a 7.5% increase in greenhouse gas emissions in 2023, according to the Apparel Impact Institute’s (Aii) latest annual report, Taking Stock of Progress Against the Roadmap to Net Zero 2025. This is the first year-on-year rise in emissions since Aii began tracking climate performance in 2019. Total emissions reached 944 million tonnes in 2023, nearly 2% of all global emissions—moving the industry further away from its goal of halving emissions by 2030. The main contributors to this rise include the surge in apparel production—particularly ultra-fast fashion—and increased dependence on virgin polyester, which now accounts for 57% of global fiber production. Recycled fiber use remains limited. While overall emissions have increased, the report outlines progress made by brands and manufacturers in decarbonizing their operations. Tangible improvements in scope 1 and 2 emissions have come through investments in renewable energy, improved energy efficiency, and early coal phase-outs. Aii’s support programs and partnerships have played a pivotal role in facilitating this shift. The report also showcases brands making headway on scope 3 emissions. H&M, for instance, has cut scope 3 emissions by 23% from 2019 to 2024. Fast Retailing (parent company of Uniqlo), Puma, and Inditex also report meaningful reductions during similar periods. Suppliers are stepping up, too. Highlights include:

• Artistic Milliners: $100 million in renewable energy investments
• Shenzhou Group: 24% reduction in scope 1 and 2 emissions (2022–2024)
• Elevate Textiles: 35% emissions cut since 2019

  “While it’s encouraging to see progress across the value chain, this data is a stark reminder of how far we still must go as an industry,” said Lewis Perkins, President of Aii.

  “The good news is we’re not starting from zero. Aii has built the infrastructure needed to help suppliers, brands, and financiers take action. Now we need the apparel ecosystem to embrace greater collective action, mobilize joint investment, and share the risks – and advantages – of decarbonization.” To accelerate progress, Aii is spearheading several initiatives:

• Clean by Design: Supports manufacturers with efficiency upgrades
• Fashion Climate Fund: A $250M capital pool for decarbonization
• Climate Solutions Portfolio: A curated registry of high-impact emissions-reduction projects Released at a pivotal point in the “decisive decade,” the report urges the sector to prioritize sustainable materials, optimize energy efficiency, transition fully to renewable energy, and eliminate coal in manufacturing.