PEFC launches campaign campaign on sourcing from sustainably managed forests

By

Barbara Santamaria

Published
Oct 21, 2020

A new campaign has been launched to persuade the fashion and textile industry to source natural forest fibres like viscose from sustainably managed forests.

The action is being spearheaded by the Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification (PEFC), the world’s largest forest certification organisation.
 
Encompassing an animation by Bristol-based image maker Sam Pierpoint and a white paper revealing the role of forest management in sustainable fashion, the ‘Fashions Change, Forests Stay’ campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of sourcing materials from sustainably managed forests. 

PEFC is also releasing a brochure that outlines a roadmap to a more sustainable future and how it supports retailers in responding to consumer demand, increasing business resilience and meeting their climate goals.

Natural forest fibres such as viscose, acetate and lyocell offer fashion brands the opportunity to increase their eco-credentials and embark on a sustainability journey, but PEFC said they must be sourced responsibly.

 “By launching the ‘Fashions Change, Forests Stay’ campaign today, we’re hoping to spark a new conversation amongst the fashion industry on the role it can play in protecting the world’s forests – which is arguably our best climate change solution,” said Ben Gunneberg, chief executive officer of PEFC.

“We look forward to work with fashion brands and retailers and help them maximise their impact through sustainable forest management. Together, we can make a difference for the future of the fashion industry, our forests and the world.”