Sustainability Measures of the Apparel Industry: A Longitudinal Analysis of Apparel Corporations’ Sustainability Efforts

Abstract

Climate change is a paramount challenge of our era, with profound implications for various sectors, including the apparel industry, known for its extensive environmental footprint throughout the entire clothing lifecycle. This study assesses the industry’s carbon emission trends using six years of data (2017–2022) focusing on Scope 1 and Scope 2. Employing a one-way repeated measures ANOVA, this study evaluates the impact of sustainability strategies on emissions. The results indicate a notable decrease in Scope 2 and overall carbon emissions, while Scope 1 emissions remain relatively unchanged despite a downward trend. These findings underscore the success of current sustainability measures in reducing emissions, especially in Scope 2, and highlight the need for ongoing and intensified efforts in Scope 1 areas. This research offers valuable insights into the apparel industry’s environmental impact, emphasizing the critical role of continued strategic actions in addressing climate change.