LET’S CLOSE THE LOOP Panel moderator Carol Malasig, Jenica Dizon of Waves for Water, Jessie Jiang of Basically Borrowed, Marika Callangan of Woman Create, Carlo Chen-Delantar of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, and Frankie Shadbolt of H&M Philippines
In recent years, fashion consumers have shown remarkable attention and interest in sustainability, both globally and in the local Philippine scene. This growing concern for the environment has not only changed people's perceptions of products and services but has also sparked a desire to support socially and environmentally responsible brands.
Recognizing this shift, H&M Philippines organized a panel discussion with its sustainability partners to reaffirm their commitment to the planet, furthering its shared objective of creating a better future for all. Led by country manager Frankie Shadbolt, the discussion was moderated by Carol Malasig and featured Jenica Dizon from Waves for Water, Jessie Jiang from Basically Borrowed, Marika Callangan from Woman Create, and Carlo Chen-Delantar from the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
"Truly integrating sustainability into everything we do is one of the key components," said Frankie. "Additionally, setting ambitious goals and adopting science-based targets are crucial in our journey towards sustainable fashion. Urgency, collaboration, and the need for action are equally important to bring about meaningful change for the future."
Numerous studies have shed light on the urgent need for a change in consumer attitudes and behaviors. By recognizing their role in shaping a sustainable future, individuals can contribute to reducing the negative impact of their consumption habits. Statistics reveal that 25 percent of emissions in the fashion industry stem from customer use.
"I believe this is something we should always keep top of mind," Frankie continued. "At H&M, we begin by educating our consumers, both internally and externally. This is how we drive the change forward."
In the Philippines, the fashion brand has been actively involved in its garment collecting initiative, which was launched globally in 2013. Since 2020, H&M has collected over 18,800 tons of unwanted clothes and textiles, equivalent to 94 million t-shirts. In addition to this ongoing program, H&M has partnered with Waves for Water, a non-profit organization dedicated to providing clean water access to those in need, for its Let's Reuse Project.
"We are very mindful of the companies and organizations we engage with, but we are also willing to work with individuals and organizations from the private sector to make this accessible to all," shared Jenica.
"What's truly unique about the partnership with H&M through the Let's Reuse campaign is its multi-stakeholder engagement. Various stakeholders, including H&M employees in-store and from the support team participating in the project, are aware of where the paper bag charges are going. This leads them to become better advocates of the initiative when facing consumers and customers," she concluded.
Shadbolt encourages everyone to join H&M's sustainability efforts by participating and taking a closer look at their purchases. "My key message is to consider recycling, repairing, or reusing your garments. This is how we can close the loop," Frankie said. "It also goes back to the initial purchase: pay attention to the materials used and whether they are sustainably sourced. These choices contribute to the longevity of the garment before it begins its next journey of recycling or donation."