Textiles Industry
The textiles industry, a cornerstone of society, faces significant environmental, social, and governance (ESG) challenges. From greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and energy consumption to labour practices and regulatory compliance, companies in this sector must navigate complex pressures while striving for sustainability. At RBGLP, we help clients operating in Zambia, Africa, and globally to manage these challenges, ensuring their operations are both successful and environmentally responsible.
The Issue
The textiles industry is integral to everyday life, producing clothing, footwear, and furnishings. However, it is also a significant contributor to global environmental issues:
- GHG Emissions: The industry emitted 2.1 billion metric tonnes of GHG in 2018, accounting for approximately 4% of global emissions. At current rates, the sector is not on track to meet international climate targets.
- Resource Consumption: High water and natural resource usage exacerbate the industry’s environmental footprint.
- Complex Supply Chains: Companies must ensure social responsibility throughout multi-tiered supply chains, with increasing scrutiny from customers, NGOs, boards of directors, shareholders, and governments.
- Regulatory Pressure: Businesses are required to comply with stricter regulations addressing labour practices, environmental standards, and responsible sourcing, as emphasised by UN SDG 12 (Ensure Responsible Consumption and Production Patterns).
In Zambia and across Africa, the textiles industry also faces unique challenges, including sustainable sourcing of raw materials, energy efficiency in production, and adherence to emerging global standards for circular economy practices.
What We Do
RBGLP adopts a sector-focused approach to support textile companies in achieving sustainability, managing legal risks, and ensuring compliance with regulatory obligations.
Our Key Services
- Regulatory Compliance and Consultation
- Advising on legal obligations related to environmental impacts, labour practices, and consumer protection in Zambia and international markets.
- Assisting clients with compliance programmes to minimise risks and prepare for enforcement actions.
- Drafting submissions and participating in consultations to shape industry regulations and standards.
- Sustainable Transition Support
- Supporting clients in aligning operations with the principles of a circular economy, focusing on energy efficiency and waste reduction.
- Advising on strategies for sustainable textile recycling and responsible consumerism.
- Supply Chain Accountability
- Helping companies map and evaluate their supply chains to ensure compliance with social and environmental responsibility goals.
- Providing guidance on mitigating risks related to forced labour and unethical practices across all tiers of supply chains.
- Market Adaptation
- Assisting clients with legal and regulatory requirements when rerouting products to alternative markets, often on short notice.
- Advising on import regulations, consumer protection, and disclosure requirements in diverse jurisdictions.
- Global Insights with Local Relevance
- Leveraging our understanding of regional and global trends to provide tailored advice for clients operating in Africa and beyond.
- Advising on the impact of global initiatives, such as the EU’s Circular Economy Action Plan, and their relevance to local markets.
Our Impact
RBGLP has partnered with clients across the textiles value chain to achieve their sustainability and compliance goals, delivering measurable impacts:
- Regulatory Engagement: Drafting submissions for consultations aimed at improving sustainable practices in the textiles sector.
- Sustainability Alignment: Supporting clients in transitioning to energy-efficient, sustainable production processes that align with international goals.
- Supply Chain Integrity: Helping clients develop and implement programmes to address forced labour risks and meet social responsibility standards.
- Market Responsiveness: Providing rapid, actionable advice for clients navigating shifts in global markets and regulatory landscapes.
Why Choose RBGLP?
RBGLP combines a deep understanding of the African textiles industry with global expertise to provide innovative solutions tailored to each client’s needs.
Our Value Proposition:
- Industry Focus: Extensive experience in advising textile companies across the value chain.
- Integrated Approach: Comprehensive support that addresses environmental, social, and governance dimensions.
- Global Perspective with Local Expertise: Strategic guidance that reflects the unique challenges and opportunities in Zambia and Africa while aligning with international standards.
Sustainable Textiles for a Better Future
The textiles industry has the potential to lead the way in sustainable production and consumption. By aligning operations with environmental and social goals, companies can not only meet regulatory requirements but also build stronger, more resilient businesses.
At RBGLP, we are committed to helping our clients thrive in this evolving landscape, fostering responsible practices that benefit people, the planet, and their bottom line.
Partner with RBGLP to navigate the complexities of the textiles industry and lead the way in sustainable innovation.