Tenerife Takes Bold Steps Towards Sustainable Fashion Certification

The Cabildo of Tenerife has made a significant move by officially launching a new certification initiative designed to promote sustainable practices within the island’s textile and fashion industries. This initiative is a response to the growing global demand for eco-friendly practices in fashion, reflecting a broader commitment to sustainability.

Dubbed Tenerife Moda Sostenible, this certification will be overseen by various departments, including Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security and Emergencies, as well as Employment, Education and Youth. The initiative is closely aligned with the Tenerife Fashion Strategic Plan 2024-2027, which aims to enhance the sustainability of the local fashion sector while fostering economic growth and innovation.

According to President Rosa Dávila, this certification positions Tenerife as a frontrunner in the global fashion market. She emphasized the ongoing commitment to sustainability, stating, “We have been doing this every year with the celebration of Tenerife Moda; now we seek to consolidate our commitment to creating a sustainable island and export it to the rest of the world.” This statement underscores the island’s ambition to not only lead in sustainable practices but also to serve as a model for other regions.

Promoting Eco-Conscious Fashion

The Tenerife Moda Sostenible initiative aims to identify and support brands, designers, and textile companies that prioritize environmentally friendly practices. Blanca Pérez, the Minister for Natural Environment and Sustainability, highlighted the goal of unifying the sustainable fashion sector under a single island brand. This approach ensures that sustainability complements existing professional activities rather than competing with them, creating a cohesive identity for Tenerife’s fashion scene.

The initiative is expected to encourage local designers to adopt sustainable methods, thereby enhancing the overall quality and appeal of their products. By fostering a community of eco-conscious creators, Tenerife aims to elevate its fashion industry while contributing positively to the environment.

A Comprehensive Vision for Sustainable Growth

This new certification is part of a broader strategic plan that encompasses both immediate goals and a long-term vision for the sustainable growth of the fashion industry in Tenerife. The initiative is designed to foster innovation, enhance design quality, and nurture local talent while promoting sustainable practices. The emphasis on sustainability is not merely a trend; it is viewed as a fundamental necessity for the future of the industry.

Efrain Medina, the Minister for Employment, remarked on the importance of this initiative, stating, “This is another step towards strengthening the Tenerife Moda brand; we require a project that looks to the future, and initiatives like this set the direction. The international projection of our island’s fashion thus becomes a green platform committed to the natural environment.” His comments reflect a forward-thinking approach that recognizes the potential for sustainable fashion to drive economic growth and enhance the island’s reputation.

Defining Standards for Sustainability

The Cabildo of Tenerife aims to create a comprehensive framework that positions the island as a leading center for fashion and textiles, recognized for its creativity, quality, and sustainable production methods. Sustainability will be viewed as a fundamental necessity rather than an optional aspect, ensuring that all certified entities adhere to high standards of environmental responsibility.

The Department of Natural Environment, Sustainability, Security and Emergencies will outline the sustainability criteria that must be met for certification. Professionals seeking this quality mark will need to fulfill at least one of these established criteria. For instance, they may need to provide collection points for textile, footwear, and accessory reuse, repair, remanufacturing, or recycling. This requirement encourages a circular economy within the fashion sector, reducing waste and promoting resource efficiency.

Additionally, certified entities must utilize organic materials such as cotton, linen, hemp, banana fibers, or silk, or create products from reused materials or recycled waste sourced from the island. Transparency is also a requirement; companies must inform consumers about their production processes, the origins of raw materials, and the ethical standards upheld by their suppliers regarding environmental and labor practices. Furthermore, they are encouraged to offer textile reuse workshops to the public, fostering a culture of sustainability within the community.

To gain the benefits and visibility associated with Tenerife Moda Sostenible, companies must also be affiliated with the institutional platform, Tenerife Moda. This affiliation not only enhances their credibility but also connects them with a network of like-minded professionals dedicated to sustainable fashion.

Key points

• The Cabildo of Tenerife has launched the Tenerife Moda Sostenible certification for sustainable fashion practices.
• This initiative is part of the Tenerife Fashion Strategic Plan 2024-2027.
• Rosa Dávila emphasizes the importance of sustainability in enhancing Tenerife’s global fashion presence.
• The certification aims to unify and support eco-friendly brands and designers on the island.
• Criteria for certification include the use of organic materials and offering recycling and reuse options.
• Transparency in production processes is a key requirement for certified companies.
• Affiliation with the Tenerife Moda platform is necessary to benefit from the certification.