Chapter 3 — full chapter
3.4.4 Social and Ethical Dimensions
Social and ethical dimensions concern the people and communities connected to fashion’s value chain. Potentially material topics include wages and income security, occupational health and safety, working hours, freedom of association, discrimination and gender equality, child and forced labour, skills and livelihoods, and the effects of sourcing, production and waste systems on local communities.
Circular strategies can also create social trade-offs. New technologies may change skills requirements and employment patterns; resale, repair and remanufacturing can create new forms of work; and changes in sourcing can either strengthen or undermine existing livelihoods. The Gabriela Hearst × Manos del Uruguay case above illustrates why circular and sustainability decisions should consider the value created for people and communities alongside environmental performance.