SLCP is an initiative led by the world’s leading manufacturers, brands, retailers, industry groups, (inter) governmental organisations, service providers and civil society organisations. SLCP aims to develop a common assessment framework and data collection system, dramatically increasing industry efficiency and reducing audit-related costs.
The first version of the framework has been created and is currently being reviewed by all signatories; it will be first piloted in February 2017. The converged tool and verification methodology will be finalised and ready for use by Q1 2018.
The framework, which is designed to replace proprietary solutions, includes a standard-agnostic tool and verification methodology to collect relevant and essential data on critical issues including child labor, forced labor, occupational health & safety, and wages. The participating organisations will benefit from reduced duplication, opportunities to measure continuous improvement, and increased transparency. Additionally, the SLCP framework enables participating organisations to invest resources previously designated for compliance audits into the improvement of social and labor conditions.
“Leading apparel, textile and footwear companies recognise the need for greater efficiency when it comes to creating standard measures around key labour issues,” said Janet Mensink, SLCP director. “By aligning around a shared framework, we’re able to collectively accelerate the social impacts and sustained improvements to working conditions in the apparel and footwear industries.”
Organisations including Arvind Mills, G-Star, Gap Inc., H&M, Hirdaramani, Intertek, OECD, SGS, Solidaridad, VF Corp.-Timberland, and WRAP are the existing signatories of SLCP. With now more than 100 participating organisations, the SLCP has launched a new project website to provide additional information and opportunity for engagement.
“We are on track with our aggressive two-year timeline and I am extremely optimistic about the direction of the SLCP,” said Colleen Vien, sustainability director at VF Corp/Timberland, and member of the SLCP Steering Committee. “Our progress is a clear demonstration of what is possible when all the stakeholders involved share a common vision, and do not get distracted by individual agendas.” (RR)
Fibre2Fashion News Desk – India