Fashion’s Role in the Global Circular Economy

UNGA80 SDG Media Zone — September 2025

At this year’s UN General Assembly SDG Media Zone, the session “Fashion’s Role in the Global Circular Economy” explored how the fashion industry can move from a linear “produce, use, dispose” model toward one rooted in regeneration and collaboration.

Speakers emphasized that circularity must begin at the design stage — embedding integrity, transparency, and innovation throughout every layer of production and consumption. It’s not just about what happens at the end of a garment’s life, but how it’s created from the start.

From material innovation to resale models, the discussion highlighted how fashion can balance creativity with accountability. Upcycling, rewearing, and policy reform were all cited as key levers in shaping a more sustainable and equitable future for fashion.

I found this session a strong reminder that progress happens when industries align practice with purpose. Like every sector, the fashion and creative industries have the power to lead by example — turning circularity from concept into culture.

Sustainability is no longer a side conversation. It’s the blueprint for fashion’s next chapter — and the choices we make today will define the industry we leave behind tomorrow, and for future generations.

Speakers:

• Kerry Bannigan, President of the Board, PVBLIC Foundation; Co-Founder, UNFL Network
• Samina Virk, Chief Marketing Officer and U.S. CEO, Vestiaire Collective
• Mara Hoffman, Fashion Designer
• Sarah Teresinski, Founder, Redeux Style
• Lindita Xhaferi-Salihu, Sectoral Engagement Lead, UN Climate Change
• Moderator: Joan Kennedy, Correspondent, Business of Fashion

UNGA79 SDG Media Zone — September 2024