SUSTAINABLE VISION NATIONAL
CHENNAI, TAMILNADU, INDIA
By IFAB MEDIA - NEWS BUREAU - April 22, 2024 | 46 3 minutes read
Bags of Ethics, in collaboration with supporting partners UK Department for Business & Trade and British Fashion Council, recently orchestrated a momentous UK-India Market and Sustainability Visit in Chennai and Pondicherry, India.
The venture aimed to foster connections between brands from the UK and India across various sectors including fashion, beauty, luxury, and retail, with a strong emphasis on sustainability practices.
Unlike conventional sustainability conferences, the visit uniquely took place at the Bags of Ethics by Supreme Creations factory in Pondicherry. This facility, renowned for its dedication to producing reusable products and combating single-use plastic pollution, has notably prevented over 30 billion single-use plastic bags from entering the environment.
Dr. R. Sri Ram, founder of Bags of Ethics, and Caroline Rush CBE, Chief Executive of the British Fashion Council, spearheaded the factory tour attended by over 30 brands from the UK, Middle East, and India. Among the showcased initiatives were the contributions of the 80%+ women workforce to the BFC Foundation, including initiatives like The Great British Designer Face Coverings campaign.
Delegates were immersed in the factory's operations, witnessing cutting-edge innovations in stitching, printing, and luxury accessories production, all aimed at reducing waste and promoting sustainable practices. Panel discussions covered a wide array of topics including circular design innovation, brand growth strategies, and conscious consumption practices.
The visit also facilitated cultural exchanges, with discussions on ancient Indian practices alongside modern innovations in sustainability and craftsmanship. Key highlights included panel discussions on nurturing talent, successful brand collaborations, and conscious consumption practices.
The event concluded with a High Tea welcome hosted by the British High Commission in Chennai and a Best of British meets Bollywood dinner, celebrating the diverse cultural exchange between the UK and India.
Delegates were actively engaged in hands-on activities, including garment deconstruction and participation in various factory operations. Key learnings centered on sustainable supply chains and opportunities for enhanced trade relations between the UK and India.
The event served as a testament to the power of collaboration and knowledge exchange in driving sustainable practices and fostering deeper ties between global communities.