The EFA Fashion Policy Round Table, held on December 4, 2024, under the patronage of Dr. Christian Ehler, MEP, and with the esteemed presence of Jessika Roswall, EU Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience, and a Competitive Circular Economy, highlighted the importance of shaping nuanced regulations that respect the creative identity of fashion while fostering innovation and sustainability.
“Fashion isn't just about creating objects; it's about creating dreams and embracing the art of
constant reinvention. In times of societal transformation, these dreams are more essential
than ever. The European Union and its institutions must actively support and nurture this
spirit of creativity and innovation. Achieving this, however, requires a strong partnership
between politics and industry. But the task to reach the mandatory climate target reduction of
55% is not only for lawmakers: also the fashion sector and industry has to make serious
efforts on larger scale to achieve our common goals.” - Dr Christian Ehler, Member of the
European Parliament
“As a new Commissioner, I want you to know that my door is always open. The transition to
sustainable fashion isn't just about regulations - it's about collaboration, innovation, and
shared vision.” - Jessika Roswall, EU Commissioner for Environment, Water Resilience
and a Competitive Circular Economy
At a critical juncture for Europe’s fashion sector, the European Fashion Alliance (EFA),
which gathers European Fashion Councils, is committed to advocating for the singularity of
the European creative fashion industry and its economic, social and cultural power. Founded
in 2022, EFA stands as a collective voice, empowering the transition of European creative
fashion towards a more sustainable, innovative and inclusive future. The power of the
creative fashion sector in the sustainability debate is undeniable. Designers and creatives
have already led the charge in promoting sustainable practices, pushing for environmental
and social change. The full accomplishment of the sector, and particularly the SMEs, requires
a fruitful dialogue leading to an adapted European legislative framework.
The “Status of European Fashion” Report 2024 includes a statement of values, an industry
survey and a manifesto of recommendations. The survey was conducted by EFA stems from
a study conducted with 211 industry representatives, carried out in a collaboration with EFA’s
27 Members. The European fashion industry is undergoing significant transformation driven
by the need for sustainability, technological innovation, and workforce development. The
sector faces growing pressure to address environmental impacts, adopt new technologies,
and ensure its workforce is prepared for future demands.
The ten recommendations established by EFA aim at value European creativity and power,
measuring sustainability in a fair way, giving accurate and fair information to consumers.
The two panels emphasized the importance of creation, quality and heritage, altogether key
drivers of sustainability. They also underlined the urge to drive towards sustainability, the
importance of crossing skills and building bridges within the fashion ecosystem in link with
public authorities. They also addressed the importance of R&D policies and of the digital
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transformation, enhanced by artificial intelligence, in particular in the perspective of the
Digital Passport Product.
While there is a strong desire within the industry to embrace sustainable practices, many
brands face significant barriers, such as a lack of knowledge, financial resources, and skilled
personnel. Overcoming these challenges requires clear regulations, financial support, and
incentives to help companies transition to a more ethical, transparent, and sustainable
business model.
The Status of European Fashion Report 2024 is available for download here.
About European Fashion Alliance (EFA):
Anchored in European values such as cultural heritage, diversity, and craftsmanship, EFA
promotes an ecosystem that balances tradition with forward-looking innovation. Creativity is
the driving force for these brands, which are committed to sustainability, quality, and high
standards. The Alliance is dedicated to upholding sustainability as a guiding principle,
nurturing creativity as a core driver, and fostering human-centered practices. It champions
policies that address environmental challenges, enhance transparency, and support local
production, while protecting the unique role of creative fashion brands in shaping Europe’s
cultural and economic landscape.
EFA Board of Directors:
• Carlo Capasa, Chairman, Camera Nazionale della Moda Italiana
• Pascal Morand, Executive President, Fédération de la Haute Couture et de la Mode
• Cecilie Thorsmark, CEO, Copenhagen Fashion Week
• Elke Timmerman, International Relations, Flanders DC
• Caroline Rush, CEO, British Fashion Council
• Scott Lipinski, CEO, Fashion Council Germany
• Zuzana Bobikova, CEO, Slovak Fashion Council
https://www.europeanfashionalliance.org
Some impressions, photography by ©Elodie Meunier
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