The 5th International Conference for Fashion and Sustainability, organised by Instituto SUSTEXMODA provided a valuable opportunity for international knowledge exchange, bringing together researchers, practitioners and sustainability experts to discuss the challenges and opportunities shaping the textile and fashion industries. Across presentations, roundtables, and poster sessions, the event explored sustainability not only as a research topic, but also through practical initiatives and creative approaches.
Just Fashion was represented by Prof. Annick Schramme, coordinator of the Just Fashion project, who participated as a guest speaker in a roundtable focused on the economic pillar of sustainability in the fashion industry. She presented the Just Fashion project and highlighted the important role of legislation in supporting and accelerating the sustainability transition within the European Union, sparking a discussion on different national and international perspectives on the role of legislation within the sustainable transition of the sector,
Additionally, as part of the academic program, Anna-Lena Müller, PhD researcher at the University of Antwerp and member of the Just Fashion Project Management Office, presented her working paper “Assessing Sustainability Maturity in Born-Sustainable vs. Transitioning Fashion (M)SMEs in Europe”. Drawing on case studies from the Just Fashion project, the research examines the different challenges and opportunities faced by fashion (M)SMEs as they navigate their sustainability transition.
The presentation provided an opportunity to disseminate the project’s preliminary findings to an international academic audience and to engage in discussions on how fashion SMEs can advance towards more sustainable business practices. It contributed to the project’s academic outreach objectives by increasing the visibility of JUST FASHION within the research community and facilitating the exchange of knowledge and perspectives. Furthermore, the acceptance of the contribution through a blind peer-review process underscores the scientific relevance and quality of the research. The presentation also reflects JUST FASHION’s commitment not only to supporting fashion (M)SMEs through practical tools and guidance, but also to generating high-quality academic outputs that contribute to and advance scholarly discussions on sustainability and business model innovation in the fashion sector.
Participation in SUSTEXMODA provided Just Fashion with an opportunity to connect its European research and experiences with a broader international debate. Exchanges with researchers, industry representatives and other stakeholders contribute to building new connections, sharing knowledge and identifying opportunities for future collaboration.
A sincere thank you to Instituto SUSTEXMODA and the University of São Paulo for hosting such an inspiring event and for creating a welcoming space for dialogue, knowledge-sharing and collaboration. Just Fashion looks forward to continuing these conversations and strengthening international connections.
