Textile production in Peru: What are your five key sustainability pillars?

By prioritizing these actions, Peru could become a leader in sustainable textile production, honoring both the environment and the communities involved.

The textile industry in Peru has evolved significantly in recent decades, adapting to global sustainability demands. This shift not only helps protect the environment but also ensures that local communities and economies benefit appropriately.

In this context, we present the five core principles that focus on sustainability and guide textile production in the country.

Source: Shutterstock

Clean energy

Clean energy in the textile industry involves using efficient energy sources and technologies that minimize the environmental impact of production. Given that the industry consumes significant amounts of energy, transitioning to clean energy from natural sources—such as solar, wind, hydro, and geothermal power—is essential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions, enhancing operational efficiency, and supporting sustainable rural development.

Minimal water footprint

The water footprint refers to the total volume of water used throughout the entire value chain of a garment, from raw material extraction to finishing and laundering. Minimizing this footprint is essential for sustainability and for conserving water resources, particularly in regions where water is scarce.

According to the United Nations Alliance for Sustainable Fashion, the textile industry uses approximately 215 billion liters of water each year. Therefore, reducing the water footprint in this sector is crucial to lessen the environmental impact of clothing production, as it is one of the most water-intensive industries.

Carbon neutral

Today, daily activities generate a significant amount of CO2, often exceeding what the Earth can manage. Achieving carbon neutrality in the textile industry involves reducing and offsetting the greenhouse gas emissions produced during the manufacturing, distribution, and consumption of products.

Therefore, a textile company committed to carbon neutrality must calculate and closely monitor all CO2 emissions throughout the value chain, while striving to minimize this environmental impact as much as possible.

Source: Studio Sabático / PROMPERÚ

Clean production

Clean production in the textile industry involves implementing processes and practices that reduce environmental impact and enhance resource efficiency. This approach aims to minimize pollution and waste while optimizing productivity and sustainability throughout the entire production chain.

For example, national textile companies are already implementing initiatives with SEAQUAL fabric, a polyester fiber made from a portion of plastic waste recovered from the ocean. This approach not only helps clean the sea but also supports the use of renewable materials.

Source: Shutterstock

Decent work

Decent work in the textile industry is crucial, as it includes fair working conditions, respect for workers' and communities' human rights, safe working environments, and the implementation of corporate social responsibility. This means not only ensuring fair treatment at work, but also supporting positive societal actions, such as backing charitable institutions.

The textile industry, as one of the largest globally, has a major impact on the economy and the lives of millions of workers. Ensuring decent working conditions not only enhances employees' quality of life but also boosts the sustainability and reputation of companies in the global market.