Cascale, formerly the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, launched the U.S. Policy Member Expert Team (MET) [1]. MET is an advisory group that defines policy priorities and guides regional advocacy strategies for the textiles, apparel, and consumer goods sectors. The expert team comprises of representatives from leading brands, manufacturers, and affiliates, bringing together industry expertise to provide recommendations on key legislative and regulatory matters during the current U.S. legislative cycle.
The MET’s work is informed by the perspectives of its members, and its advocacy efforts are expected to have broader implications for the entire industry. The team will focus on identifying pressing policy priorities and determining whether efforts should be concentrated at the federal or state levels.
Cascale’s MET initiative is led by Elisabeth von Reitzenstein, senior director of policy and public affairs, and Gabriele Ballero, public affairs manager. Their roles involve harnessing member insights to shape Cascale’s U.S. Public Affairs Strategy. The MET aims to amplify the voice of manufacturers and strengthen Cascale’s commitment to collective action.
The U.S. Policy MET includes representatives from prominent organizations such as the American Apparel & Footwear Association (AAFA), Edward Garment, Everlane, GG International Manufacturing Co. Ltd, H&M, Komar Brands, Nike, Ralph Lauren, Sustainable Fashion Academy, VF Corporation, and WRAP. This diverse group reflects Cascale’s dedication to member-focused and member-led advocacy.
Dr. Thiwanka De Fonseka, director of sustainability at Komar Brands, emphasized the importance of the MET in balancing the need for sustainable development with consistent growth in the fashion industry. The MET will play a crucial role in shaping Cascale’s approach to addressing key challenges and opportunities for the textiles, apparel, and wider consumer goods sector.
Cascale plans to expand its policy and public affairs focus to other regions, with a similar Policy MET for the Asia-Pacific region set to be established in 2025. This global, member-driven advocacy approach aims to ensure that products and services enhancing climate resilience, equitable partnerships, better livelihoods, and nature-positive impacts can move forward effectively without compromising environmental, social, and governance safeguards under strong U.S. policies.
Cascale is a global nonprofit alliance. It owns and develops the Higg Index, which is exclusively, the comprehensive sustainability data and insights platform.
Sources:
[1] Cascale Assembles U.S. Policy Member Expert Team to Shape Industry Priorities During Key Political Period
