SPONSORED CONTENT - A lot has happened in the last 20 years. Steve Jobs unveiled the iPhone. Facebook launched its social platform. The last 20 years were witness to technologies which changed communication and information sharing as we know it today.

However, there is a general consensus that not enough has happened to move the textile and fashion industry into the environmentally and socially responsible position that has been demanded for by consumers. The current industry demands are pushing players to implement sustainability policy reaching throughout their supply chain, while increasing traceability, transparency, and accountability. Brands especially find themselves under pressure to provide this “radical transparency”.

A 2019 report produced by Suston demonstrated that no retailer was ranked as an expert in material sustainability. How then, can brands be expected to implement the sustainability initiatives they are promising consumers.

While data transparency can appear as a challenge for the industry, in the current global climate where data is king, transparency can instead offer a competitive advantage for a company. In our globalized world, “out of sight, out of mind” no longer exists. As consumers take stock of their global footprint, they will make active decisions to reduce their negative impacts on the environment and society.

With its extensive expert base, Bluesign has created a service-based solution that combines sustainable practices with economic benefits. What sets Bluesign apart is its Input Stream Management approach. 20 years ago, this approach was a revolutionary idea. The Bluesign Input Stream Management has created a sleek assessment process, in which the globally accepted standards are integrated to establish the industry benchmark.  While previous solutions tested a finished product and allowed for little flexibility, this holistic approach encompasses the entirety of the needs throughout the value chain.

Today the idea of a transparent supply chain is moving towards the norm. However, with supply chain transparency comes the need for industry tools to simplify the communication along the many horizontal and vertical levels of the supply chain. 

The bluesign® CUBE is a web-based platform with Online Analytical Processing (OLAP) capabilities. The paramount feature of the bluesign® CUBE is its efficient facilitation of transparent information flow between connected organizations.  In line with the Bluesign mindset, this software suite and measurement tool can generate Environmental Key Performance Indicators (eKPIs) which are of unparalleled value in creating reports for stakeholders. Data measures in reduction of emissions, discharge, and increases in resource efficiency creates the ability for sound data driven business strategies.

Two key points need to be taken into consideration in 2020:

First, 2020 will be big data driven. Moreover, this data will have to be verifiable. Transparent data generation throughout the supply chain is the most fluid and efficient way in which verified data can be established.

Secondly, 2020 will continue to be purpose driven. Both the fashion and textile industry suffer from a lack of trust from consumers. They must be conscience of how they move in the world around themselves. Companies who are the first movers in transparent data sharing will be at the forefront of consumer trust and consumer loyalty.

Bluesign has been acting 20 years ahead of time. Today, Bluesign is the most efficient way to guarantee compliance with new regulations, without compromising on functionality, quality, or design. Act now and be 20 years ahead.