UK has extended the sustainable clothing action plan (Scap). It is set to end next year but the new version is expected to involve more retailers and take steps towards developing industry-wide systems to recycle and reuse textiles and fibers.

Scap’s retail signatories including Next, M&S, Primark and Asos have committed to reducing their water use, carbon footprint and waste sent to landfill by 15 per cent by 2020. Primark is experimenting with clothing recycling bins at its new store and has pledged to introduce a full scheme this year. It has also launched sustainable cotton jeans and eco-friendly glitter. H&M is aiming at having 100 per cent recycled or sustainably sourced materials by 2030, up from 57 per cent now. It is also testing out a free mending service.

The spotlight is shining on the fashion industry. Most big retailers now agree they have to adapt to survive. The planet doesn’t have the resources available to facilitate the linear production model that the vast majority of the fashion industry operates on and therefore systemic change is the only option. There has been a significant change in people’s attitudes toward sustainability and fashion. Consumers want more action and greater transparency from brands.