Green Practices in the Fashion Supply Chain: A Literature Review

Abstract

The intensive use of chemicals, the high exploration of natural resources, and greater dependence on external partners are factors that contribute to increase environmental impacts in the fashion supply chain. To reduce negative impacts within the supply network, an alternative is to promote green practices. This study aims to identify these green practices from a supply chain perspective that are commonly adopted by fashion companies. Our research identified and analysed barriers and opportunities to implement green practices in the fashion supply chain from 28 articles found in the literature. Those practices most commonly approached were related to the internal environmental management system (EMS), and the retail market was the supply chain (SC) link with the largest participation in the identified practices. Research also demonstrated that the main barriers to implementing green practices are lack of market knowledge, commitment to suppliers, lack of employee training, and high operational costs. Despite these challenges, opportunities are present in reducing cost, enhancing corporate image, and augmenting partners’ technological offerings.