EFWA ZERO FASHION AND Textile WASTE good practices report

Directed by

UNEP Zero Waste Day

Eco Fashion Week Africa reshapes fashion by promoting circular practices, educating young designers and setting a new standard in eco-fashion.

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The key themes that EFWA initiative is related to

Waste prevention
Waste reduction
Consumer behavioural changes
Awareness and sensitization
Just Transition
Circular economy and 9Rs

How this initiative contributes to zero waste.

Eco Fashion Week Africa aligns with the zero waste approach through its focus on circular fashion practices that aim to significantly reduce waste throughout the fashion production lifecycle. The initiatives NO NEW CLOTHES RUNWAY rule encourages the use of eco-friendly and recycled materials, promotes upcycling and the reuse of textiles, and showcases designs that are crafted to minimize fabric waste and environmental impact.

This initiative is considered a zero waste initiative because it actively seeks to eliminate textile waste generation in the name of fashion show. By adopting innovative design principles and encouraging sustainable consumer habits, Eco Fashion Week Africa embodies the principles of zero waste by ensuring resources are used efficiently, waste is minimized, and any materials used are either biodegradable or recyclable, thus contributing to a more sustainable and circular fashion industry.
Throughout the week, we involve other organizations in workshops, panel discussions, and textile waste cleanup activities.

The most relevant Sustainable Development Goal(s) (SDGs) and associated target(s) that this initiative is working towards.

Goal 1 – End poverty in all its forms everywhere: By creating employment opportunities in the sustainable fashion sector for young student designers who we give platform to and connect with seasoned designers. This helps alleviate poverty and promote economic growth.
Goal 5 – Achieve gender equality and empower all women and girls. The initiative supports gender equality by empowering women in the fashion industry, providing platforms for female designers, and promoting equitable opportunities.
Goal 12 – Ensure sustainable consumption and production patterns. By advocating for sustainable fashion practices, the initiative promotes resource-efficient production and encourages responsible consumption, reducing waste and environmental impact.
Goal 13 – Take urgent action to combat climate. – Eco Fashion Week Africa takes proactive measures to reduce the fashion industry’s carbon footprint through educating consumers on sustainable practices, thus contributing to climate action. change and its impacts
Goal 14 – Conserve and sustainably use the oceans, seas and marine resources for sustainable development
Goal 17 – Strengthen the means of implementation and revitalize the global partnership for sustainable development. – The initiative builds strong partnerships with stakeholders in the fashion industry, NGOs, and governments to collaborate on sustainability efforts and amplify impact.

Challenges/gaps EFWA is addressing, including relevant background information about the city, country or locality and outline the key objectives/goals of the initiative.

The initiative aims to revolutionise fashion by teaching young designers and seasoned designers the power of adopting sustainable practices, reducing waste through innovative designs, and promoting the use of eco-friendly materials. It embodies the principles of zero waste by minimizing waste generation and encouraging recycling and upcycling through our NO NEW CLOTHES RUNWAY CHALENGE
Influence of Location and History: Africa, with its rich cultural heritage and growing urban populations, faces significant environmental challenges especially caused by textile waste. The need for sustainable practices in rapidly developing economies is crucial to balancing economic growth with environmental preservation.
Challenges and Opportunities: Africa’s fashion industry grapples with issues such as waste management and environmental impact. However, there’s a significant opportunity to lead in sustainable fashion by integrating traditional craftsmanship with modern eco-friendly techniques.
Reason for Approach: This particular approach was chosen to encourage circularity in the fashion industry, fight textile waste by managing it in a fun and engaging way, and blend Africa’s cultural richness with sustainable practices, showcasing Africa’s potential to lead in eco-fashion. It seeks to create a platform that both educates and inspires change in consumer behavior and industry practices.
Key Objectives/Goals: The primary goals include promoting zero waste in fashion, supporting local artisans and economies, fostering sustainable practices, and raising awareness about the environmental impact of fashion. The initiative aims to set a benchmark for circular fashion events globall

Key actions taken under the Eco Fashion Week Africa initiative, along with its implementation timeline

1. Key Actions and Stages:
– Planning and Development: The initiative started with strategic planning to define its vision and objectives, focusing on sustainable and zero waste practices in fashion.
– Partnership Formation: Establishing collaborations with designers, environmental organizations, and local artisans to promote eco-friendly materials and sustainable design practices.
– Event Execution: Organizing fashion shows, workshops, and panel discussions that highlight sustainable fashion, featuring collections that adhere to eco-friendly practices and materials.
– Education and Advocacy: Conducting workshops and community events to educate attendees about the benefits of sustainable fashion and the importance of reducing waste in the industry.

2. Community Engagement and Participatory Planning:
– Collaborative Design Processes: Engaging local communities and artisans in the education on design and production phases to incorporate traditional skills and sustainable materials.
– Public Workshops and Forums: Hosting events that invite community members to learn about sustainable practices in fashion, encouraging local involvement and feedback.
– Stakeholder Inclusion: Involving local businesses, government entities, and NGOs in planning and execution to ensure

Overview

Here's a brief overview of the outcomes and impacts of the Eco Fashion Week Africa initiative:

1. Achievements and Beneficiaries:
– The initiative has successfully promoted sustainable fashion practices across Africa, benefiting young local designers, artisans, and communities by providing a platform for eco-friendly fashion.
– It has raised awareness and educated both industry professionals and the public on the importance of sustainability in fashion. We have seen other big fashion events moving from linear practices to a more sustainable one in Kenya this year after Eco Fashion Week Africa set the example two years in a row.
1. Measurement of Success:
   – Number of Beneficiaries: 35 designers and artisans have participated, along with hundreds of attendees who have been exposed to sustainable fashion.
   – Waste Recovered: The initiative emphasizes reducing textile waste; however, specific numerical data on waste recovery might not be available without further reports.
1. Factors Contributing to Success/Challenges:
   – Success Factors: Strong partnerships, community involvement, and alignment with global sustainability trends have driven the initiative’s success.
   – Challenges: Financial constraints and resistance to change in traditional fashion practices may have posed challenges.
1. Benefits to Disadvantaged and Marginalized Groups:
– The initiative provides opportunities for artisans from marginalized communities to showcase their craftsmanship, potentially leading to economic empowerment and skill development. We saw AKALA21 showcase their design proudly.
1. Medium/Long-Term Impact and Transformation:
– The initiative has the potential to generate substantial medium to long-term impacts by encouraging a new cultural norm in fashion that prioritizes sustainability, leading to healthier ecosystems and sustainable economic growth.
1. Waste Generation Impact:
– While specific reductions in waste generation aren’t detailed, the initiative’s focus on zero waste practices suggests a significant reduction in textile waste through recycling and upcycling efforts.
1. Recycling and Diversion Measurement:
– The initiative promotes the recovery, recycling, and composting of fashion materials, but precise percentages of waste diverted from landfills are not specified.We have the NO NEW CLOTHES RUNWAY that encourages the use of textile waste instead of new materials.
1. Impact on Sustainable Practices:
– The initiative has successfully influenced sustainable consumption by increasing the adoption of eco-friendly products and practices, while also raising awareness that translates into community engagement and potential financial savings for consumers and businesses.
We have also seen a big shift in the Kenyan Fashion events where more events are now adopting our slogan of “We are not just an event but a movement”
1. Greenhouse Gas Emissions/Methane:
– Eco Fashion Week Africa potentially reduces greenhouse gas emissions by supporting the use of materials and practices that lower the carbon footprint of fashion production, although exact emission reductions require further evaluation and reporting.

Can we be replicated?

Eco Fashion Week Africa presents a promising model for replication and scaling, with several considerations for those interested in similar initiatives:

1. Replication Potential: - The practice is highly replicable as the core principles of sustainability and fashion can be adapted to various cultural contexts. While local nuances such as available materials and design preferences may vary, the foundational goals align with global sustainability trends

2. Prospects for Scaling Up: - There is a strong potential for scaling up, as the growing global awareness of environmental issues and sustainable consumption supports expanding such initiatives. This can benefit a larger audience by integrating more designers, communities, and regions into the sustainable fashion movement.

3. Suitable Urban Contexts: - Urban areas with vibrant creative industries and a focus on innovation in sustainability are well-suited. Cities with a history of fashion events, active community engagement, and support for environmental initiatives make ideal candidates for replication.

4. Key Takeaway Lessons: - Community Engagement: Ensure local communities and artisans are actively involved, providing them with opportunities to showcase their talents. - Partnerships: Collaborate with local governments, NGOs, and businesses to strengthen support and resource sharing. - Flexibility and Adaptation: Tailor the initiative to fit the local cultural and economic context while maintaining core sustainability principles. - Education and Awareness: Continuously educate stakeholders on the benefits of sustainable practices to garner broad support.

5. Outreach and Communication Methods: - Digital Platforms: Utilize social media, websites, and online campaigns to reach a broader audience. - Workshops, cleanup events, and Seminars: Host educational events to engage local communities and industry stakeholders. - Media Engagement: Collaborate with media outlets to gain coverage and raise awareness of the initiative's goals and successes.

By taking these factors into account, parties interested in replicating and scaling Eco Fashion Week Africa can create a successful and impactful sustainable fashion movement in their regions.

To repliacate the event, write to us on info@ecofashionweekafrica.com

Collabotion?

Eco Fashion Week Africa demonstrates evidence of engaging various stakeholders and forming partnerships, both locally and beyond, to promote sustainable fashion practices. Here's how it addresses the questions:

Stakeholder Engagement:

– Diverse Partnerships: We involve collaborations with designers, artisans, environmental organizations, NGOs, and local governments to promote sustainable fashion practices.

– Local Engagement: We engage local communities by teaching local schools and young designers the importance of zero waste fashion, then showcasing their work and giving them the chance to sell thus supporting local economies and cultural heritage.

Innovative Methods of Engagement:

– Community Mobilization: The initiative actively involves community members in the planning and execution phases through participatory workshops and forums, encouraging grassroots involvement.

– Targeted Participation: Designers and artisans are targeted as key beneficiaries, receiving platforms to showcase their sustainable work, which enhances visibility and market reach.

Distinguishing and Innovative Features:

– Sustainability Focus: Eco Fashion Week Africa distinguishes itself by centering circularity at the core the fashion event. We stick to No New Clothes on the runway and also encourage attendees not to buy new clothes to attend the show. This creates a massive awareness and emphasizes zero waste and eco-friendly practices among designers and the community.

– Cultural Integration: By incorporating African cultural elements into sustainable designs, it showcases a unique blend of culture and sustainability.

– Educational Outreach: Our biggest win is the amount of educational events we have that raise awareness and educate stakeholders and the public on sustainable fashion practices.

Overall, Eco Fashion Week Africa stands out for its comprehensive approach to engaging stakeholders, innovative methods of community involvement, and its commitment to sustainable practices that uniquely blend cultural heritage with environmental responsibility.

• Have gaps and challenges been appropriately addressed?

Addressing Gaps and Challenges: - Uses workshops and partnerships to fill knowledge and resource gaps. - Adapts strategies to overcome financial and traditional practice challenges.

• Does the practice have elements to ensure accountability and sustainability, such as a monitoring mechanism for review and learning?

Accountability and Sustainability: - Implements monitoring metrics for environmental impact and gathers participant feedback. - Ensures transparency in sustainability efforts by not partnering with organizations that are the biggest environmental polluters.

• How does the good practice contribute to financial sustainability, considering savings in waste management, avoidable costs, energy and raw materials, new business opportunities, investments, job creation, and reduced environmental responsibility costs?

Financial Sustainability: - Saves costs by using recycled materials and reducing waste. - Creates business opportunities and jobs in sustainable fashion. - Lowers environmental costs through eco-friendly practices.

Resource allocation

The resources that have been allocated to the planning, implementation and ongoing maintenance of this initiative.

1. Budget Allocation:

– No formal budget; relies on goodwill and in-kind donations.

– Costs are minimized through community support and volunteer efforts.

2. Budget Utilization:

– Resources are used efficiently for sustainable materials and energy-saving practices, creating business opportunities and reducing environmental costs.

3. Financial Impact:

– Generates economic activities through job creation because we connect student designers with seasoned designers and give them a big platform to be seen/discovered.

– ROI is seen in local economic growth and enhanced community skills.

4. External Support:

– No external financial contributions received; solely supported by donations and goodwill. Babylon Hospitality Africa offered to handle the basic event requirements like transportation and all miscelenous costs.

5. Internal Resources:

– Volunteers and community members provide human resources and technical expertise.