Soon environmental labelling for clothing in France ?

While crowds rushed for the latest Black Friday deals, the Minister for Ecological Transition, Agnès Pannier-Runacher, visited the French Fashion Institute last week. The goal of her visit was to launch a public consultation on environmental impact labeling for clothing. This initiative marks the final step before the implementation of this labeling, which brands can voluntarily adopt starting in spring 2025. The environmental labeling for textiles is based on a scoring system designed to quantify the ecological impact of each garment. This score considers the entire life cycle of the product: from fabric production and dyeing to manufacturing, distribution, and end-of-life disposal. The idea is simple: to provide consumers with clear and understandable information, similar to food labels or energy performance indicators for appliances.

This environmental cost is evaluated based on several criteria: greenhouse gas emissions generated by the product, biodiversity impacts caused by the production and processing of raw materials, water consumption and other natural resources, and the product's durability. This data would help consumers better understand a garment's true environmental impact, beyond its appearance or price. While this initiative has garnered much interest, it also raises questions about its implementation. Currently, the system proposed by the state is based on voluntary participation by brands. Unlike the requirements of Article L. 541-9-12 of the Environmental Code, which calls for mandatory labeling, the government has opted for an initial optional phase. Brands can decide to display this environmental score on their products starting in spring 2025, but it will not be a legal obligation for now. Another nuance: the labeling could be dematerialized, meaning the information may not necessarily be visible directly in stores but accessible via a QR code or an online application. Finally, it should be noted that this system will not apply to footwear, a sector closely linked to fashion.

This launch represents a crucial step in the fight against ultra-fast fashion, an economic model based on the rapid and low-cost production of often disposable garments. This sector significantly contributes to environmental degradation, particularly through the intensive use of natural resources and massive waste production. The introduction of this environmental labeling is part of a broader effort to transform the textile industry. It aims not only to hold consumers accountable but also to encourage brands to adopt more sustainable practices. By making their products' impacts visible, brands will be incentivized to reduce their ecological footprint to remain competitive in a changing market. However, challenges remain. How can we ensure that brands embrace transparency? And how can we prevent this system from becoming merely a marketing tool? These are questions that must be answered before the system's effective implementation. By proposing environmental labeling for clothing, France is taking a step toward more responsible fashion. While limited in its initial application, this system has the potential to transform consumer and industrial behaviors sustainably. It remains to be seen whether this voluntary approach will be enough to meet the set objectives or whether a generalized obligation will eventually be necessary. In the meantime, consumers will soon have the tools to make more informed choices—a step forward that, hopefully, marks the beginning of a new era for fashion.