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The Higg Index is an apparel and footwear industry self-assessment standard to rate environmental and social sustainability throughout the supply chain. The Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC) launched it in 2012 and owns and develops the suite of tools. The nonprofit consists of more than 300 fashion brands, retailers, manufacturers, academic institutions, affiliates, NGOs and governments.[1] While initially formed to create standardized sustainability metrics, the SAC has since sharpened its focus to driving pre-competitive, collective action across three foundational pillars: "Combat Climate Change", "Decent Work for All", and a "Nature-Positive Future". This is outlined in its "Evolution for Impact" strategic plan, revised in 2023.
The SAC said Higg Index tools are designed to enhance standardized sustainability pathways[clarification needed] for the apparel, footwear, and consumer goods sectors. Today, more than 24,000 organizations around the world are using the Higg Index,[2] and its global reach and variety ensure that the SAC can now catalyze change from within the industry. However, the Higg Index has been criticized by some for using poor data and a non-transparent approach resulting in potentially misleading information on which fiber is more sustainable.[3]
- ^ "Our Members". Sustainable Apparel Coalition. 5 October 2023. Retrieved 2024-02-01.
- ^ "The Higg Index". Sustainable Apparel Coalition. Retrieved 2022-02-01.
- ^ Tabuchi, Hiroko (2022-06-12). "How Fashion Giants Recast Plastic as Good for the Planet". The New York Times. ISSN 0362-4331. Retrieved 2022-06-27.