The United States Fashion Industry Association (USFIA) and the UN Global Compact hosted a roundtable in New York City on the UN’s Sustainable Development Goals. Almost 20 brands and retailers heard about the SDGs and the projects that directly affect the fashion industry. The Water Stewardship Apparel Initiative and a project called Setting Science Based Targets are especially interesting.
Why should you align your corporate sustainability efforts to the Sustainable Development Goals?
The SDGs provide a powerful plan of action for humanity to solve our toughest challenges by the year 2030: poverty, inequality, climate change, and more. Business can and must play a role. The SDGs provide a shared roadmap for all sectors of society from all corners of the globe to work toward the same 17 goals. Companies that are making the SDGs a priority on their strategic agenda are discovering new business opportunities, attracting and retaining employees, gaining efficiencies, and ensuring their license to operate.
How can the UN Global Compact help you?
As the UN's corporate sustainability initiative, we have the tools & resources, expertise, global reach and local networks to translate the SDGs for business and help you create and implement a sustainability strategy aligned with the SDGs. One of the tools we shared is the SDG Compass. The SDG Compass is a practical, 5-step management model designed to help companies understand, prioritize, set targets, take action, and communicate their core business activities that help achieve the SDGs.
Below, you’ll find a sampling of the UN’s working groups, tools, and upcoming events in New York.
USFIA Roundtable Materials:
- UN Global Compact Workshop Presentation
- UN Global Compact Presentation on Engaging the Fashion Industry
- Goal 12 Handout
- SDG Workshop Handout
Events:
- 17 July | SDG Business Forum
- 24 September | UN Global Compact Leaders Summit
Tools & Resources:
- Guide to Traceability in Global Supply Chains
- Code of Conduct and Manual for the Fashion & Textile Industry
- Gender Gap Analysis Tool
Working Groups:
The UN Global Compact invites you to get more involved and take action by joining as a corporate participant. Contact Claire Kells, Senior Manager of Participant Engagement, at This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it. for more information.