We are at a critical moment in history. The world feels increasingly volatile, uncertain, complex, and ambiguous. A series of intersecting global crises is impeding business operations. The ongoing Covid-19 pandemic, the war in Ukraine, simmering geo-political tensions, social unrest, climate catastrophes, rising costs, and disrupted supply chains are making it challenging for companies to navigate. Mounting scrutiny and regulation from policymakers around the globe are further exacerbating issues.
No company, country or even region can fix these problems alone. Collaboration is the only way forward. At last month’s World Economic Forum’s Annual Meeting meet in Davos, Switzerland, world leaders were endeavoring to respond collectively to the complicated and interlinked challenges we face. Convening on the theme of ‘cooperation in a fragmented world’, they know such systemic problems require coordinated solutions.
In the same way, the fashion sector must unite to address its particular social and environmental challenges. As one of the planet’s most polluting industries, it has much work to do. For apparel manufacturers, retailers and brands this must be a year of collaboration, not conflict, of progress, not platitudes.
Seismic changes are coming our way. In response to the climate emergency, new public policies will put increasing demands on all aspects of operations. In these circumstances, the only way we make progress is if companies set aside their differences, listen to each other and find common ground towards shared solutions that benefit all, and not just some.