background image

Fast fashion, ESG & GHG emissions: is SHEIN greenwashing?

author image

By illuminem briefings

· 2 min read


illuminem summarizes for you the essential news of the day. Read the full piece on Sustainability Magazine or enjoy below:

🗞️ Driving the news: Fast fashion giant SHEIN, with $32.5 billion in revenue in 2023, is expanding its ESG efforts but faces greenwashing allegations
The company reported an 81% increase in emissions from 2022 to 2023 while being investigated for misleading sustainability claims
Recent ESG announcements include circular fashion initiatives, renewable energy incentives, and supply chain transparency

🔭 The context: SHEIN has been scrutinized for labour rights violations, unsustainable production, and misleading certifications
It has pledged to cut 25% of emissions across all scopes by 2030 and has invested in circular economy projects and renewable energy adoption
Regulatory concerns over its China ties could impact its rumored London IPO after political resistance in the U.S.

🌍 Why it matters for the planet: Despite launching sustainability programs, SHEIN’s ultra-fast fashion model drives overconsumption and waste
Its 16.7 million metric tons of CO₂ emissions in 2023 far outweigh its climate pledges
Critics argue its ESG efforts, including a $5.3 million donation, are insufficient compared to its environmental impact

⏭️ What's next: SHEIN continues to position itself as a leader in sustainable fashion with initiatives like the SHEIN X Rescued Collection and Circularity Fund
However, regulatory scrutiny, ESG credibility, and IPO ambitions will shape its next steps
The fashion industry will watch how policymakers and consumers respond to SHEIN’s sustainability claims

💬 One quote: “No fashion company currently pays society for its negative externalities.” — Ken Pucker, Professor at Tufts University

📈 One stat: SHEIN’s 81% emissions increase from 2022 to 2023 coincided with a 43% revenue growth

Click for more news covering the latest on greenwashing and sustainable fashion

Did you enjoy this illuminem voice? Support us by sharing this article!
author photo

About the author

illuminem's editorial team - providing you with concise summaries of the most important sustainability news of the day.

Follow us on Linkedin, Twitter​ & Instagram

Other illuminem Voices


Related Posts


You cannot miss it!

Weekly. Free. Your Top 10 Sustainability & Energy Posts.

You can unsubscribe at any time (read our privacy policy)