CHARMING INSIGHTS

Packaging has always been part of the branding conversation, but now it’s at the center of an environmental one too. Packaging alone makes up nearly 40% of the world’s plastic waste, and 91% of all packaging ends up in landfills. As the environmental impact of packaging becomes harder to ignore, both consumers and governments are calling for real, sustainable alternatives.

Regulations are always changing. Keeping up with shifting policies is a headache, and what makes it worse is that they’re not just changing; they’re changing in different directions.

Six years ago, the European Union passed the Green Deal, committing to carbon neutrality by 2050. With at least a trillion euros dedicated to this initiative, the EU has introduced extensive legislation to promote sustainability and drive progress towards this goal. 

Sustainable practices have historically been viewed as a financial burden rather than a driver of profitability. But, things are changing. Governments worldwide are creating legislation to promote sustainability.

As global and U.S. regulations continue to evolve, sustainability is no longer optional; it’s a necessity. Businesses that fail to adhere to sustainability regulations risk fines, reputational damage, and disruption to imports/exports.

With the United States election behind us, the manufacturing industry (and the world) are anticipating some major changes. As is the case every election cycle, shifts in Presidential party and Congressional control come with a lot of unknowns for brands.

In today’s business world, sustainability is no longer just a buzzword—it's a critical factor in driving consumer trust and long-term success. With the rise of "greenwashing,” where companies market unsubstantiated claims about their environmental impact, as well as the lawsuits that follow behind, consumers quickly become skeptical. So, how can your company stand out and prove that its dedication to sustainability is genuine?

California’s always been a trendsetter in the fashion industry, but they’re taking trends to the next level, spurring global transformations that go deeper than style. At the forefront of the sustainable fashion movement, California businesses and leaders are redefining what it means to be a green brand. 

American brands are struggling to navigate modern commerce, with consumers and policymakers leading the charge for more accountability when it comes to sustainable fashion. With slow progress on all ends, brands and retailers are struggling to reconcile business growth with transparent environmental responsibility.

Every clothing company's brand identity is woven into the fabric of its products. However, as business evolves, the brand image may start to fray. Outdated logos, inconsistent messaging, and changing consumer expectations can signal that it is time for a refresh. 

In a groundbreaking move, the United States has taken a serious step toward sustainability with the launch of the Slow Fashion Caucus. This first-ever congressional effort, led by Congresswoman Chellie Pingree (D-Maine) alongside Reps. Marie Gluesenkamp Perez (D-Wash.) and Sydney Kamlager-Dove (D-Calif.), was unveiled in July to address pollution and exploitation plaguing the fast fashion industry.