As we face unprecedented heatwaves, scientists warn that 2024 is poised to be the hottest year on record. This pattern of extreme weather holds significant implications for the fashion industry, from retail strategies to workforce safety.
The global increase in temperatures can largely be attributed to climate change, driven by fossil fuel consumption. According to experts, the El Niño effect has intensified conditions this year, but the underlying causes remain linked to ongoing climate trends. The consequences of these sweltering temperatures have already been severe, with record heat resulting in over 1,000 fatalities during the Hajj pilgrimage in Saudi Arabia, a shutdown of schools for 80 million children in Asia, and economic losses amounting to $120 billion due to disasters linked to extreme weather.
For fashion, the alterations in weather patterns complicate shopping habits and inventory management. Brands find it increasingly difficult to predict consumer demand, especially as fluctuating climates disrupt raw material supplies like cotton due to floods and droughts. A recent study predicts that without proactive measures, the garment sector could see a $65 billion decrease in export earnings by 2030.
Despite the urgency, discussions around these challenges are scant in boardrooms. Executives often prioritize consumer confidence and geopolitical issues over the critical risks posed by rising temperatures. To future-proof the industry, companies must invest in climate resilience within their supply chains, implement retrofitted cooling systems in factories, and adopt smart inventory management strategies.
Immediate actions can also create a positive impact, such as providing workers with breaks and access to hydration during high temperatures. As governments begin to enforce stricter standards for employee safety in extreme weather, the fashion sector must rally behind such initiatives. The UN has recently called for urgent action against extreme heat, underscoring the dire need for the fashion industry to address its vulnerabilities proactively. Recognizing climate change as a legitimate business threat is not only responsible but also essential for ensuring sustainable growth in the future.
