Fashion Brands Are Falling Short on Climate Promises While Pollution Keeps Rising
A new report by the environmental organization Stand.earth, called the Fossil Free Fashion Scorecard, reveals that many major fashion brands are not meeting their environmental goals. In fact, over 40% of the companies studied are increasing pollution instead of reducing it.
Only a small number—just 7%—are on track to meet the Paris Agreement target of limiting global warming to 1.5°C. For every one brand making progress, six others are moving in the wrong direction.
One of the worst performers in the report is Shein, a fast fashion brand. Shein received an “F” rating after its emissions rose by 170% in two years. Its total carbon output now matches that of an entire country like Lebanon. A big part of this is due to the company’s use of air freight, one of the most harmful ways to ship goods.
The deeper issue is the fashion industry’s heavy reliance on fossil fuels. Many garments are made with polyester, a plastic material derived from oil. The factories that make these clothes often run on coal and other non-renewable energy sources. The trend toward fast and ultra-fast fashion has also led to a rise in overproduction and waste.
Although many brands say they are working toward sustainability, the report shows that most are not making real changes. This practice of appearing eco-friendly without actual effort is known as “greenwashing.” The scorecard examined several factors including energy use, supplier support, choice of materials, and shipping methods. The results show that genuine progress is rare.
Right now, the fashion industry contributes around 4% of total global carbon emissions. Without major improvements, this impact will continue to grow and make climate change worse.
Governments can help by passing stronger regulations. France has already begun to set limits on fast fashion. Brands also need to be transparent about their environmental impact and commit to real changes like switching to renewable energy and using sustainable materials. Small steps are not enough anymore.
Consumers can also make a difference. Choosing to buy from brands that are serious about reducing their carbon footprint can help shift the industry in a better direction.
Many fashion companies are still ignoring the environmental damage they are causing. The problem is clear, and the time to act is now.
Back Indian Craft Meets Global Style: Nike and NorBlack NorWhite Join Hands
Nike has partnered with Delhi-based fashion label NorBlack NorWhite to create a unique collection that brings traditional Indian textile art into modern sportswear. This collaboration highlights how traditional design techniques can find a new voice in today’s global fashion world.
At the center of the collection is Bandhani, a centuries-old tie-dye technique practiced mainly in Gujarat and Rajasthan. The process involves tying small knots in fabric and then dyeing it, creating rich patterns and textures. The method is time-consuming and detailed, but the final result is vibrant and deeply rooted in Indian culture. In this new range, Bandhani appears on Nike products such as sports bras, hoodies, and sneakers, becoming a core part of their design.
NorBlack NorWhite, led by Mriga Kapadiya and Amrit Kumar, has built a reputation for creatively updating Indian craft traditions. With this partnership, they take their work to a larger international audience. Instead of using traditional prints as a background element, this collection places them front and center.
The campaign was shot by photographer Bharat Sikka at the stepwells of Jaipur, adding a layer of historical and cultural depth. It features Indian women athletes — a wrestler, a sprinter, and several cricketers — who represent both strength and connection to heritage. Their presence helps tie together the themes of performance, identity, and culture.
This collection stands out in a fashion industry that often moves quickly and tends to follow similar trends. It takes a slower, more meaningful approach by focusing on craftsmanship and storytelling. The collaboration shows that traditional art can adapt and thrive when treated with care and respect.
Together, Nike and NorBlack NorWhite have created more than just clothing. They’ve built a thoughtful partnership that respects India’s craft traditions while bringing them into a global conversation. This project is an example of how heritage and innovation can work side by side in modern fashion.
Back Building a Stronger Textile Industry for Indian Global Growth
India is moving ahead with a clear plan to grow its textile industry, targeting $100 billion in exports by 2030-31. The aim is not only to raise export figures but to build a stronger, more efficient industry that can succeed in international markets. This plan includes worker training, better infrastructure, reduced production costs, and an increased focus on environmentally friendly practices.
A major focus of the plan is on improving skills. Workers will be trained in both traditional and modern textile methods so they can meet current demands and adapt to new technologies. A skilled workforce will help the industry stay competitive and improve overall productivity.
Logistics is another key area being improved. Slow shipping, poor transport systems, and weak supply chains have caused problems for many years. The government now plans to upgrade roads, ports, and delivery systems so goods can move faster and more reliably from factories to customers around the world.
To stay competitive on price, the industry is also addressing high input costs. By switching to renewable energy and using more automation in production, companies can reduce expenses and improve output. These steps are expected to make Indian textiles more appealing to global buyers.
Sustainability is also being taken seriously. New measures aim to reduce water usage, improve working conditions, and lower environmental damage. These efforts reflect the growing demand from consumers worldwide for responsibly made products.
The government is encouraging teamwork across sectors. Public agencies, private companies, export groups, and trade bodies are being brought together to simplify rules, speed up decision-making, and support new trade opportunities through global partnerships.
In the end, this plan is about more than increasing exports. It is about improving how Indian textiles are seen in the world — as quality products made by skilled people with care for the environment and fair practices. If everything comes together as planned, India could become one of the most trusted names in the global textile industry.
Back India and its Growing Role in the Global Fashion Industry
The global fashion industry is changing, and India is becoming an important player. Instead of just focusing on traditional fashion centers like Paris or Milan, many brands and consumers are turning their attention to India.
This shift is not temporary. It is based on several clear reasons. India has a large, young population that is starting to earn more money and show more interest in fashion. These young people want clothes that mix modern international styles with their own cultural traditions. As more people move to cities and lifestyles change, the demand for fashion grows quickly. Experts expect India’s fashion market to reach $350 billion in the next few years.
Fashion brands are also changing their strategies. Recent disruptions around the world have made companies realize they need more reliable supply chains. India offers strong manufacturing capabilities and a big local market, which makes it an attractive option. Additionally, online shopping has expanded rapidly in India, making global brands accessible to people in both big cities and smaller towns. This has helped brands connect better with Indian customers.
The Indian government supports this growth through programs like “Make in India” and financial incentives for the textile industry. They are also developing large textile parks and training workers with the right skills. These efforts help create a strong environment for fashion manufacturing and business.
At the same time, Indian consumers are changing. They don’t just copy Western fashion but want styles that combine global trends with Indian culture. This creates opportunities for brands to offer products that blend both influences. It also helps build a new, richer fashion identity.
India is no longer just a market to watch—it is becoming a key center for global fashion. This change involves consumers, manufacturers, brands, and the government working together to shape the industry’s future. India’s role in fashion is growing steadily and will likely continue to do so in the coming years.
Back The Return of Longer Shorts
Fashion trends often come and go quickly, but one current shift seems to be sticking around: longer shorts are making a comeback. Styles like Bermudas are replacing the shorter options that have dominated recent summers, offering a fresh mix of comfort and style.
These longer shorts are practical and easy to wear. They provide more coverage, making them ideal for warmer weather without feeling too revealing. From lightweight linen and cotton to denim and even leather, they’re available in a wide range of materials. Some are loose and casual, while others are tailored for a more put-together look.
One of the reasons for this change is the growing focus on comfort. People want clothes that feel good throughout the day. The popularity of gender-neutral styles has also helped longer shorts find their way into more closets. These cuts work well for different body types and suit a variety of settings.
One can wear them casually with a T-shirt and sneakers or dress them up with a blouse and blazer. Footwear plays an important role in shaping the outfit’s vibe—sandals for casual wear, loafers for something more polished, and heels for a dressier look.
Fashion designers have noticed this shift too, showcasing longer shorts on runways in both relaxed and more structured forms. These shorts aren't limited to one age group or style preference—they’re adaptable, functional, and quietly fashionable.
In the end, longer shorts are more than a trend. They’re a reflection of how style is changing to meet real needs: comfort, variety, and ease. As the weather warms up, reaching for a longer pair of shorts might just be the simplest way to stay cool—and look good doing it.
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