Why Apparel Industry Needs Technology Stimulus for its Sustainability Drive

The apparel industry, a vital pillar of India’s economy, stands on the cusp of a historic growth opportunity with the market expected to expand to $300 billion by 2047. However, to capitalise on this boom, the industry must arm itself with emerging technologies to navigate the unprecedented challenges of a rapidly evolving marketplace, including fragmented supply chains, escalating costs, rising competition and mounting sustainability concerns.

The shift towards digital transformation is already underway with advanced technologies offering a path to streamline operations, reduce waste, lower costs and enhance sustainability. However, to fully realise this potential and unlock new growth opportunities, the industry must break out of its reliance on traditional practices and bridge the gap between convention and innovation.

COP29 and Sustainability in Apparel 

The urgency for transformation was underscored at COP29 where discussions on climate goals highlighted both the opportunity and challenges for the sector. Decarbonisation and supply chain transparency were among the themes that dominated the sessions, resonating with the growing consumer demand for ethical practices and eco-friendly products.

The COP deliberations reflected major paradigm-shifting trends worldwide, such as a commitment to renewable energy, ethical sourcing and due diligence. Collaborative platforms like Fashion for Good weave in stakeholders, enabling them to test and scale breakthrough solutions, ranging from material innovation to recycling techniques. These initiatives are a testimony to the crucial role that partnerships can play to help the sector ride sustainability challenges.

Technologies like waterless dyeing and digital printing are key to reducing the environmental impact of production. For example, supercritical CO2 dyeing eliminates the need for water, significantly lowering pollution and resource usage. Likewise, digital printing applies dyes directly to fabric with precision, further conserving water and energy. Together these advancements illustrate how innovation can help the sector meet market demands without compromising on sustainability.

Practical Solutions for Digital Transformation 

Despite the potential of digital transformation, the apparel industry faces significant hurdles. It's complexity - spanning, designers, suppliers, manufacturers and retailers - has traditionally made it resistant to change. Manual processes lead to inefficiencies, long lead times and high costs. These challenges are compounded by the pressures on the industry to become sustainable. Emerging technologies provide practical solutions to many of these challenges, equipping businesses to enhance efficiency, transparency and sustainability. Some key innovations include: 

1. Digital Design and Prototyping 

Platforms like CLO 3D and Browzwear enable designer to create digital twins of garments, simulating fabric behaviour and eliminating the need for physical samples. This reduces material waste and shortens lead times. Designers can collaborate across locations in real-time, streamlining approvals and production processes.

 2. Supply Chain Transparency with RFID and IoT

Technologies like Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) and Internet of Things (IoT) facilitate real-time tagging of materials and products. Improved visibility enhances inventory management, prevents stock imbalances and minimises delays. Transparent supply chains enable businesses to optimise production and distribution, meeting consumer expectations for ethical practices.

3. Sustainability through Recycling and Upcycling 

Recycling and upcycling technologies close the loop in production cycles by converting discarded textiles into reusable fibres. This reduces reliance on virgin materials and addresses waste concerns. Companies adopting this practice are well-positioned to meet the growing demand for eco-friendly products.

4. Integration of Automation and AI

Advanced tools powered by artificial intelligence (AI) are revolutionising operations by predicting trends, optimising material choices and streamlining production planning. AI enhances customer experience through data-driven insights, enabling brands to deliver personalised products while improving operational efficiency.

Reimagining Fashion with Integration of Standards  

The integration of Industry 4.0 and 5.0 practices offers a transformative vision for the apparel industry. While industry 4.0 emphasises automation and digital transformation, the latter places human-centric solutions and sustainability at the forefront. Together these paradigms create a balanced approach to innovation. 

Tools like Nunox for fabric scanning and Shima Seiki's seamless integration with digital design platforms revolutionise garment production, enabling precision and efficiency. Virtual reality tools such as Microsoft’s HoloLens and Metaverse Design Studios, offer collaborative spaces for experimentation and innovation, redefining how designers and manufacturers engage.

A United Path Forward 

The apparel industry in India must harness these technologies to remain competitive on a global scale. The tools for digital transformation are within reach, but their adoption requires commitment, collaboration and investment. By integrating sustainability into core business strategies, companies can enhance efficiency and alongside reduce the environmental impact of their businesses.

As consumer preferences evolve and regulatory pressures mount, businesses that embrace innovation will lead the way in shaping the future of fashion. Whether through waterless dyeing, AI-driven solutions or recycling technologies, the industry has the opportunity to redefine itself as a model of sustainability and resilience. 

The time for action is now. India's apparel sector must leverage its position as a global textile leader to drive the transformation, ensuring long-term growth and success.

 (Ramalingam T is CEO, Knits Division, Shahi Exports. Views expressed are personal)