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ARTICLE · 02 FEBRUARY 2026

Threading The Needle: ESG Risk In The Fashion Sector

Travers Smith LLP
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The fashion industry is under increasing scrutiny for its environmental, social, and governance ("ESG") practices.

United KingdomEnvironment
Heather Gagen
Heather Gagen
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The fashion industry is under increasing scrutiny for its environmental, social, and governance ("ESG") practices.

Regulators, activists, and consumers are demanding greater transparency and responsibility from brands, not only in their own operations but across their complex global supply chains. With new and evolving regulations – such as those addressing modern slavery and environmental risks – and the rise of ESG-related litigation, fashion businesses must adapt to a rapidly shifting compliance landscape.

We examine the sources of the risks arising from fashion industry supply chains and how businesses (and their legal advisers) can identify ESG risks, navigate regulatory requirements, and develop robust compliance regimes to protect their reputations and support sustainable growth.

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