In a recent study, the British Fashion Council, alongside key industry partners, unveils strategies to significantly reduce the carbon footprint and waste associated with fashion product returns.
The British Fashion Council, in collaboration with the Institute of Positive Fashion, DHL, and Roland Berger, has released a comprehensive report addressing the significant environmental impact of product returns in the fashion industry. The report reveals that in 2022, the returns process in the UK resulted in 750,000 tonnes of CO₂ emissions and led to 23 million garments being discarded. It suggests a dual approach to tackle this issue: preventing returns at the point of sale by improving sizing accuracy and product information, and making the returns process more efficient through better logistics and technology. This initiative aims to reduce waste and emissions while encouraging a shift towards a more sustainable and circular fashion industry.