NYC Council report recommends fossil fuel and animal-derived material phase out, other sustainability changes
During Climate Week 2021, a New York City Council law to improve the sustainability of city textile purchases was passed.
Sponsored by councillor Ben Kallos, it required reporting on the supply chain for such textiles, and to establish a taskforce to recommend legislation and policy for environmentally preferable purchasing, use and disposal of these textiles.
Collective Fashion Justice was proud to have consulted on the writing of the bill, and to have testified in support of its passing.
A few years on, the taskforce has published its final report, finishing with recommendations for New York to improve its textile purchasing.
Primarily authored by friend of our organisation and leading responsible fashion expert Michelle Gabriel, we were also pleased to contribute to this report.
It recommends:
1. An end to synthetic textile purchases made from fossil fuels
2. A phase out of harmful animal-derived materials like leather and wool
3. A move to more responsible materials made from plants and recycled materials
4. Reduced volumes of promotional products like tote bags that contribute to a waste crisis
5. Access to paid repairs for City workers and their uniforms
6. Improved end-of-life outcomes to reduce textile waste
7. Improved textile purchasing reporting
8. Engagement with more legislative action that can be made.
We will continue to engage with the Council to ensure these recommendations are met with action.
This is a first of its kind project for a city council, and beginning with New York, we hope many others follow suit.