Every month, our editors round up the news you should know from around the internet. Here are November’s top stories, including some positive news for garment workers, an interview with trade unionist Kalpona Akter, and a report on the people working in |ndia’s textile sorting capital.
Piñatex Maker Puts UK Arm Into Administration (Apparel Insider)
Apparel Insider reports that Ananas Anam UK Limited—the parent company behind pineapple-based material Pinatex—has entered administration, though it notes that the process doesn’t apply to the company’s other branches in Spain and the Philippines, and it wasn’t clear how this would affect the material’s manufacturing and supply.
Kalpona Akter: Why Are Garment Workers Still Denied Dignified Jobs? (Vogue Business)
In an interview with Vogue Business’s Bella Webb, Bangladeshi trade unionist Kalpona Akter discusses the changes and challenges of the region’s garment industry, plus what her vision for the future is, and why living wages are so important.
Bangladesh Drops Criminal Cases Against 48,000 Garment Workers (Business of Fashion)
48,000 garment workers facing prosecution over allegations of crimes committed during protests against Bangladesh’s minimum wages in 2023 have had their charges dropped, according to Business of Fashion. It comes after labour justice organisations and trade unions campaigned for two years against the charges.
EU Lawmakers Back Cuts to Sustainability Law’s Reach (Reuters)
Aspects of the European Union’s Corporate Sustainability Due Diligence Directive (CSDDD) are being watered down according to a report from Reuters. The Directive requires companies to address labour and environmental issues in their supply chains or face fines calculated according to their turnover. But this latest amendment means the Directive will only apply to companies with larger employee numbers and a much higher turnover, resulting in fewer businesses being held accountable.
Tod’s Faces Labor Abuse Allegations in Its Supply Chain (WWD)
Prosecutors in Milan have alleged labour abuse in shoemaker Tod’s supply chain as a result of subcontractors’ activities. The Italian brand is the latest to come under the spotlight after the likes of Armani and Dior also faced allegations. WWD notes that while Tod’s isn’t facing criminal charges, measures could be taken to help it enhance its supply chain auditing.
Bangladesh Garment Factory Fire Kills at Least 16, Official Says (New York Times)
The New York Times reports on a fire in Dhaka, Bangladesh, at a factory housing both garment manufacturing and a chemical warehouse, and which killed at least 16 people, though the death toll was expected to rise. The report notes that despite factory standards having improved since the Rana Plaza disaster, deadly fires remain a frequent occurrence.
The High Price Of Circular Fashion in India’s Recycling Capital (Atmos)
Mohammad Asif Khan reports for Atmos on the issues facing workers in Panipat, India, where much of the world’s discarded clothes are sent for sorting. Toxic fibre dust, dyes, and heavy machinery are just some of the risks they face, while wastewater from dyes leaches into the environment and drinking water, and geopolitical crises lead to economic uncertainty. Khan notes that while many are praising the region for its circularity initiatives, serious improvements to the safety and security of those involved in the process are needed.
Would You Put Fossil Fuels on Your Face? You Probably Already Are (Business of Fashion)
In an excerpt from their new book The House of Beauty, writer Arabelle Sicardi explores the ways that the beauty industry consumes fossil fuels, from ingredients to packaging, highlighting it as an urgent area that needs to be addressed.
‘Good’ and ‘Great’ news
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Opera Campi Creates New Hemp Blend
Known for its innovation in hemp material blends, Opera Campi (“Good”) has created a new one, Cashemp, which combines more responsibly sourced cashmere with hemp for refinement and warmth. The material is the third in the brand’s series of cosy fabric creations.
Pangaia Launches New Collection Using AeoniQ
“Great” brand PANGAIA has revealed a series of garments made from the new material AeoniQ, which is made in a closed-loop system and uses regenerative cellulose feedstocks. The material is recyclable and biodegradable, and is designed to replicate the characteristics of nylon and polyester yarns without the environmental impact.
In other brand news, PANGAIA brand has also created a special new coat insulation by combining its FLWRMIX with a bio-based fill from padding maker Imbotex, and surplus viscose fabrics from luxury brand Ferragamo. “The collaboration between Ferragamo and PANGAIA shows how to improve resource efficiency by repurposing leftover materials,” Ferragamo said in a LinkedIn statement.
Mashu Reveals Next Plant-Based Collection
Vegan handbag maker Mashu (“Great”) has unveiled a new collection of bags made from plant-based leather alternatives. The line-up includes new editions of the much-loved Calliope and Irene designs, and comes with free repairs for life.
The Classic T-Shirt Company Introduces New Organic Cotton Items
“Good” brand The Classic T-Shirt Company has updated its offering with a trio of new T-shirts in 100% organic cotton—a lower impact material—in a variety of fits, fabric weights, and timeless designs for longevity.
