How We Evaluate
Living with the reputation of being the second most polluting industry in the world isn’t easy. But the silver lining is that there are countless opportunities to improve. Sustainability and its principles can make a big difference. While it’s a long road, every effort matters, and perfection isn’t required. A few well-chosen approaches and strategies can gradually bring a brand or designer closer to being fully sustainable.
The online version of the Fashion Map offers the flexibility to update, expand, and grow the directory over time. The printed version focuses on Bratislava and its surrounding areas, while the web catalog will feature brands, stores, and presentation spaces from across Slovakia. The online map will also highlight sustainability, offering users insights into whether a brand is sustainable or not.
The Slovak Fashion Council will remain committed to this issue long-term because it’s more relevant than ever. The climate crisis has exposed the fashion industry’s significant negative impact on the environment. Consumer interest in sustainability is on the rise, as shown in research by companies like McKinsey, Deloitte, Vogue Business, Fashion Revolution, and GfK.
It’s up to creators, manufacturers, retailers, and consumers to put these insights into action. It can be challenging, as the consumer system isn’t built for it and focuses on driving consumption. But those who understand their individual impact will see that there are already many alternatives to support sustainability and contribute to healing the fashion system. Fashionmap.sk is one of the tools to help access this information within our local environment.
Our Evaluation Process:
The Slovak Fashion Council has developed a 13-question survey that evaluates a broad range of sustainability factors in the fashion industry. A brand that meets at least six of these criteria will receive a sustainability label in the Fashion Map catalogue. It’s important to note that no official body has defined exactly what makes a brand sustainable. What matters is recognizing the gradual steps, efforts, and dedication of designers and brands towards sustainability.
Our Criteria:
1. We use certified or sustainable materials in every collection.
2. Our materials do not waste water or pollute water sources.
3. We incorporate recycling or upcycling techniques in our creations.
4. We use certified dyes or environmentally friendly textiles that don’t contribute to pollution.
5. We design zero-waste patterns or create zero-waste products.
6. Our manufacturing is local (within Europe).
7. We use sustainable packaging for all our products.
8. We consciously reduce our carbon footprint during distribution.
9. We produce in limited quantities or only on demand, preventing overproduction and textile waste.
10. We respect human rights, as do our suppliers.
11. Our processes are fully transparent, with nothing hidden.
12. We communicate our pricing structure openly and clearly.
13. Sustainability and responsibility in fashion are at the heart of our business and communication.
14. Other.