Introduction to Sustainable Fashion Governance

Abstract

In this chapter, we introduce the field of Sustainable Fashion Governance. We define it as the sum of actors, initiatives, instruments, standard systems, and strategies aiming to foster socially and environmentally sustainable business practices in the textiles and garment industry. We highlight core management and governance challenges in the fashion industry such as supply chain complexity, interdependence as well as lacking transparency and control. Moreover, we introduce the following chapters of this volume. By combining perspectives from the governmental sphere, the scientific world, and the business sector, we aim to enable mutual learning and co-creation of sustainable solutions to today’s challenges in global fashion production. New forms of regulation on the governmental level as well as voluntary private initiatives will be discussed and best practice business solutions will be presented.