NATIONAL INSTITUTE OF FASHION TECHNOLOGY,
GANDHINAGAR
MID-TERM ASSIGNMENT
SUSTAINABLE PRODUCTION
Submitted by:
Aishwarya Gupta (BFT/21/553)
Nayanika Dayal Verma (BFT/21/305)
Under the guidance of:
[Link] Chopra
Associate Professor, NIFT Gandhinagar
Content
1. Introduction........................................................................................................................................ 3
2. Understanding the Frameworks....................................................................................................... 4
2.1 9 Rs of Circular Economy........................................................................................................... 4
2.1.1 What are 9 Rs of Circular Economy?................................................................................ 4
2.1.2 How does the framework promote sustainability in the fashion industry?........................4
2.1.3 Research methodology and findings.................................................................................. 5
2.2 ReSolve Framework.................................................................................................................... 5
2.2.1 What is the ReSolve Framework?......................................................................................5
2.2.2 How does the framework promote sustainability in the fashion industry?........................6
2.2.3 Research methodology and findings.................................................................................. 6
2.3 Triple Bottom Framework........................................................................................................... 7
2.3.1 What is the ReSolve Framework?......................................................................................7
2.3.2 How does the framework promote sustainability in the fashion industry?........................8
2.3.3 Research methodology and findings.................................................................................. 8
3. Analysis of the Sustainability Report (Shahi Exports 2022-2023).................................................9
3.1 Relevant information in the report to the selected frameworks.................................................10
3.1.1 'Responsible For' Framework...........................................................................................10
3.1.2 'Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards 2021......................................................... 10
3.1.3 Stakeholder Engagement Approach to Materiality Assessment...................................... 10
3.1.4 GRI Standard and Disclosure...........................................................................................10
3.1.5 Materiality Assessment.................................................................................................... 11
3.1.6 Innovation for the Planet..................................................................................................11
3.1.7 Employee Well-being and Development..........................................................................11
3.1.8 Waste for Circularity........................................................................................................ 11
3.2 Frameworks that best align with the report............................................................................... 11
3.3 Identifying initiatives, metrics, and goals related to each framework category........................ 12
3.3.1 'Responsible For' Framework...........................................................................................12
3.3.2 ReSOLVE Framework..................................................................................................... 13
3.3.3 Triple Bottom Line (TBL) Framework............................................................................ 13
1. Introduction
The fashion industry faces growing pressure to be sustainable. This assignment delves into that by
analyzing a textile and fashion company's sustainability practices. We'll be using a combination of two
sustainability frameworks to get a well-rounded picture. First, we'll gain a thorough understanding of
frameworks like the 9 Rs of Circular Economy and the ReSolve Framework. Then, we'll look at
research papers to see how similar studies were conducted and how findings were presented. This will
help us decide on our research approach. Next, we'll pick a sustainability report of Listed companies
in the Textile and Fashion Industry.
We'll choose two frameworks that best suit the company's report structure and analyze the report to
see how their practices align with those frameworks. Finally, we'll present our findings clearly and
engagingly, highlighting the company's strengths and weaknesses and suggesting areas for
improvement. By doing this, we hope to contribute to the discussion on sustainable fashion practices.
2. Understanding the Frameworks
2.1 9 Rs of Circular Economy
2.1.1 What are 9 Rs of Circular Economy?
The 9 Rs of Circular Economy, also known as the "R0 to R9-Rs," are a set of principles that
encompass various strategies for achieving a more sustainable and circular economic system. These
principles are integral to the concept of Circular Economy (CE) and are aimed at promoting resource
efficiency, waste reduction, and sustainable production and consumption practices. The 9 Rs are as
follows:
● R0: Refuse
● R1: Reduce
● R2: Reuse
● R3: Repair
● R4: Refurbish
● R5: Remanufacture
● R6: Rethink/Repurpose
● R7: Recycle
● R8: Recover/Energy
● R9: Remine
These principles emphasize the importance of minimizing waste generation, extending the lifespan of
products and materials, and promoting the efficient use and recovery of resources. By incorporating
these principles into business practices and reporting, organizations can contribute to the advancement
of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) and the overall transition towards a more sustainable and
circular economy. (Nazir and Doni 1,14,28)
2.1.2 How does the framework promote sustainability in the fashion industry?
The provided document discusses the integration of Circular Economy (CE) principles into Integrated
Reporting (IR) practices within the fashion industry. The study focuses on multinational garment
companies and their disclosure of CE R principles in their integrated reporting practices. The
document employs content analysis and thematic analysis to identify patterns and themes related to
CE and IR practices, as well as the companies' efforts towards sustainability. The study also examines
the companies' utilization of the six capitals framework in their reporting.
The framework promotes sustainability in the fashion industry by emphasizing the adoption of
Circular Economy (CE) principles, such as refuse, reduce, reuse, and recover, within the companies'
operations. It highlights the companies' efforts to reduce waste, energy consumption, and greenhouse
gas emissions, as well as their use of renewable energy sources and sustainable materials.
Additionally, the framework encourages companies to focus on environmental effects, social impact,
animal welfare, traceability, and chemicals in their production processes. The study also underscores
the importance of risk management, performance evaluation, and future outlook in achieving
sustainable practices within the fashion industry.
Overall, the framework promotes sustainability in the fashion industry by guiding companies to
integrate Circular Economy principles into their reporting practices, adopt sustainable production and
consumption methods, and align with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) to address
environmental, social, and economic challenges. (Nazir and Doni 3,20,18)
2.1.3 Research methodology and findings
The research methodology employed in the papers involves a combination of qualitative content
analysis and thematic analysis to explore the integration of Circular Economy (CE) principles into
Integrated Reporting (IR) practices and their implications for Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
The authors utilized case study analysis to examine the implementation of CE-related activities into
IR practices and to understand the associations between CE, IR, and the six capitals. The research
design entailed the use of multiple case studies to observe companies' practices and provide a
convincing explanation of such practices. The authors also adopted a thematic analysis approach for
data analysis, which is described as a method for identifying, analyzing, and reporting patterns within
data.
The findings were reported through a systematic analysis of the content and themes identified in the
integrated reports of multinational garment companies. The study revealed that companies were more
involved in the reduce (R1), reuse (R2), and recycle (R7) principles and were engaged with IR
practices, focusing on SDGs. The content analysis showed that the amount of disclosure of CE
concepts still needs improvement in integrated reports. The authors also highlighted the potential
impact of CE on financial capital, emphasizing the relevance of the findings for financial-related
outcomes and IR reporting practices.
Overall, the research methodology involved a rigorous analysis of integrated reports using content and
thematic analysis, and the findings were reported systematically, providing insights into the
integration of CE principles into IR practices and their implications for sustainable development and
value creation. (Nazir and Doni 11,12)
2.2 ReSolve Framework
2.2.1 What is the ReSolve Framework?
The ReSOLVE framework, developed by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, is a comprehensive tool
that offers a mechanism for businesses to generate strategic models to achieve circularity. It comprises
six circular economy business models: Regenerate, Share, Optimize, Loop, Virtualize, and Exchange.
Each of these actions represents a major circular business opportunity, enabled by the technology
revolution, and corresponds to an increased utilization of physical assets, prolonged lifecycles, and the
transition of resources from limited to renewable usages. The framework is designed to help
businesses initiate multiple actions that support the transition towards a circular economy, with each
action reinforcing and accelerating the performance of the others. It provides a structured approach for
businesses to integrate sustainable and circular practices into their operations, emphasizing the
importance of actions such as using renewable energy and materials, retaining and regenerating the
health of ecosystems, optimizing resource yields, keeping components and materials in closed loops,
delivering particular utility virtually instead of materially, and replacing old materials with advanced
renewable materials and/or applying new technologies. (Chopra and Satyan 3,5,4)
2.2.2 How does the framework promote sustainability in the fashion industry?
The ReSOLVE framework, developed by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, promotes sustainability in
the fashion industry by offering a structured approach for businesses to integrate sustainable and
circular practices into their operations. The framework comprises six circular economy business
models: Regenerate, Share, Optimize, Loop, Virtualize, and Exchange. Each of these actions
represents a major circular business opportunity, enabled by the technology revolution, and
corresponds to an increased utilization of physical assets, prolonged lifecycles, and the transition of
resources from limited to renewable usages.
The ReSOLVE framework encourages businesses to initiate multiple actions that support the
transition toward a circular economy. It emphasizes the importance of actions such as using renewable
energy and materials, retaining and regenerating the health of ecosystems, optimizing resource yields,
keeping components and materials in closed loops, delivering particular utility virtually instead of
materially, and replacing old materials with advanced renewable materials and/or applying new
technologies. By integrating these actions, businesses can contribute to the restorative and
regenerative principles of the circular economy, promoting repair, reuse, recycling, and the
optimization of resource usage. This approach aims to minimize environmental impact, reduce waste,
and create a more sustainable and resilient fashion industry. (Chopra and Satyan 2,9,11)
2.2.3 Research methodology and findings
The research methodology employed in the papers primarily involves a three-stage approach. The first
stage involves a literature review to identify frameworks conceptualizing the core principles of
circularity and to understand circular business models. The ReSOLVE framework, developed by the
Ellen MacArthur Foundation, is used as a basis for structuring business models based on their actions.
The second stage involves exploring innovative business models related to the Indian fashion industry
through a web-based search to identify published papers, reports, and news articles mentioning
circular economy, circularity, waste management, recycling, and closing the loop. The focus is on
Indian-origin companies, brands, and fashion labels discussing circularity in their content. In the third
stage, available information in the public domain for identified companies is thoroughly evaluated,
and an adoptive table is created to map their actions with ReSOLVE framework strategies.
The findings are reported through an analysis that emphasizes the emphasis on business actions rather
than the rhetoric of circularity. The mapping with the ReSOLVE framework is not intended to create a
to-do list for businesses to achieve circularity but to connect their actions with the framework, where
each action represents a major circular business opportunity. The study explores the exhaustive
secondary data of Indian business models related to the textile and fashion industry, where circularity
and sustainability are claimed to be driving factors, and distinguishes their business actions according
to the ReSOLVE framework. The discussion sections highlight the emergence of startups and brands
focusing on business models encompassing circularity, indicating the acknowledgment of the
importance of actions required for the transition towards circularity and the creation of various
business opportunities.
Based on this analysis, a hybrid approach combining elements from different frameworks could be
considered for a new research methodology. This approach could involve a literature review to
identify circularity frameworks, similar to the first stage of the papers' methodology. Additionally, a
case study approach could be incorporated to analyze specific Indian fashion and textile businesses in
detail, similar to the third stage of the papers' methodology. This hybrid approach would allow for a
comprehensive understanding of the circular business models and actions taken by Indian fashion and
textiles businesses, while also providing in-depth insights into the practical implementation of
circularity strategies. (Chopra and Satyan 3,2,4)
2.3 Triple Bottom Framework
2.3.1 What is the ReSolve Framework?
The Triple Bottom Line (TBL) is a framework that evaluates a company's performance based on three
dimensions: social, economic, and environmental. It measures a company's success not only by its
financial profits but also by its impact on people and the planet. The TBL approach encourages
businesses to consider their social responsibility, economic prosperity, and environmental
sustainability in their operations and decision-making processes. This framework aims to promote
sustainable business practices and emphasizes the importance of creating value for all stakeholders,
not just shareholders. (Khokhawala and Iyer 1,2,3)
2.3.2 How does the framework promote sustainability in the fashion industry?
The Triple Bottom Line (TBL) framework promotes sustainability in the fashion industry by
evaluating a company's performance based on three dimensions: social, economic, and environmental.
In the context of the fashion industry, this framework encourages companies to consider their impact
on people, profit, and the planet. Specifically, in the case of sustainable entrepreneurship in India,
companies like Desi Hangover and the H.G. Group have demonstrated the application of the TBL
framework in their operations.
Socially, these companies have improved the standard of living for artisans, provided medical support
for artisan families, and supported education within villages, thereby contributing to social upliftment.
Economically, they have created non-farm income opportunities, improved production efficiency, and
generated employment for artisan families. Environmentally, they have used organic raw materials,
upcycled and recycled waste, and reduced the environmental cost of production. By prioritizing these
aspects, the TBL framework ensures that fashion companies consider their impact on society, the
economy, and the environment, thereby promoting sustainable practices in the industry.
In summary, the TBL framework promotes sustainability in the fashion industry by encouraging
companies to balance social, economic, and environmental considerations in their operations,
ultimately leading to more responsible and sustainable business practices. (Khokhawala and Iyer
2,11,12)
2.3.3 Research methodology and findings
The document presents a comparative case study of sustainable entrepreneurship in India, focusing on
two entrepreneurial firms—Desi Hangover and the H.G. Group. The research methodology employed
qualitative research techniques, including case study research, cross-case analysis, and purposeful
sampling. Data collection involved extensive unstructured interviews with the founders of the two
firms, a review of documents, and interactions with the venture's artisans. The researchers used a
heuristic approach, allowing them to adapt their ideas based on observations and scientific
investigation. The findings were reported through a case-to-case synthesis, analyzing and comparing
social, economic, and environmental outcomes, stakeholder engagements, and the role of sustainable
innovations in venture success.
The discussion sections highlighted the social, economic, and environmental impact of the two cases,
as well as the key sustainability strategies and future challenges. The document also emphasized the
relevance of sustainable entrepreneurship to emerging economies and the potential for sustainable
entrepreneurship in developing and emerging economies.
Based on this analysis, a hybrid approach combining elements from different frameworks could be
considered for a new research methodology. This could involve incorporating elements of case study
research, cross-case analysis, and purposeful sampling, while also integrating quantitative data
analysis techniques to provide a comprehensive understanding of sustainable entrepreneurship in
emerging economies. Additionally, the research design could focus on exploring the motivations of
entrepreneurs, the impact of social ties on forming meaningful networks, and identifying industry best
practices, while also undertaking stringent empirical analysis to drive the theoretical synthesis of
sustainable entrepreneurship. (Khokhawala and Iyer 1,3,4)
3. Analysis of the Sustainability Report (Shahi Exports
2022-2023)
The sustainability report of Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd. for the financial year 2022-23 provides a
comprehensive overview of the company's commitment to environmental, social, and governance
(ESG) principles. The report focuses on the company's activities within India and is verified under
limited assurance by TUV SÜD South Asia Pvt Ltd. It adheres to the reporting principles of the
Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards 2021 and aligns its ESG efforts with the United Nations
Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs).
The report emphasizes the company's efforts in various areas such as energy and emissions
management, water efficiency, waste for circularity, fair and respectful workplace, chemical and
material stewardship, and corporate social responsibility. It also highlights the company's stakeholder
engagement approach to materiality assessment and its commitment to aligning with global standards
for sustainability.
Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd. aims to position itself as a leader in fostering sustainable transformations
within the textile industry and emphasizes its responsibility to move the needle in favor of climate and
people. The report also reflects the company's ongoing engagements with stakeholders to ensure
positive impacts on socioeconomic and environmental aspects.
Furthermore, the report showcases the company's 'Responsible for People and Planet' framework,
which guides its sustainability journey and sets ambitious targets for the future. The report also
highlights the significant role of the Board in enhancing the company's ESG practices and its
collaboration with ESG-related committees and teams to steer sustainability initiatives.
The sustainability report of Shahi Exports for the fiscal year 2022-23 outlines the company's
commitment to sustainability across various areas such as water, traceability, energy, digitization,
materials, processing, and chemicals. The company has a comprehensive approach to sustainability,
including waste management, innovation for the planet, and corporate social responsibility (CSR).
Shahi Exports is actively engaged in reducing its environmental impact by phasing out the use of
virgin plastics in favor of recycled materials, managing fabric waste for a sustainable future, and
organizing waste management awareness programs.
The company also focuses on governance and transparency, as evidenced by its adherence to GRI
standards and disclosures, materiality assessment, and reporting on various aspects of its operations.
Additionally, Shahi Exports is dedicated to investing in the lives it touches through employee
well-being initiatives, empowerment programs, and CSR activities aimed at uplifting communities.
Overall, the sustainability report reflects Shahi Exports' commitment to environmental stewardship,
ethical business practices, and social responsibility, positioning the company as a leader in sustainable
and responsible business operations.
3.1 Relevant information in the report to the selected frameworks
3.1.1 'Responsible For' Framework
The report emphasizes Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd.'s 'Responsible For' framework, which includes
"Responsible for Planet" and "Responsible for People." This framework reflects the company's
commitment to protecting the environment, conserving resources, and improving efficiency, as well as
enhancing innovation for the planet. It also highlights the company's dedication to fostering a fair and
respectful workplace and empowering its workforce, aligning with the "Responsible for People" pillar.
3.1.2 'Global Reporting Initiative (GRI) Standards 2021
The report is designed in adherence to the GRI Standards, focusing on principles and approaches
regarding clarity, completeness, context, and accuracy. It encompasses key non-financial performance,
governance framework, material issues assessment, stakeholders' involvement, social initiatives,
organizational culture, and environmental responsibility. The report also showcases the company's
ESG efforts in alignment with the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs),
demonstrating its commitment to addressing global sustainability challenges.
3.1.3 Stakeholder Engagement Approach to Materiality Assessment
Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd. has engaged in a comprehensive materiality assessment aligned with the
approach defined by the GRI Standards. This assessment helped the company identify and prioritize
critical sustainability issues, incorporating stakeholders' perspectives through internal stakeholder
interviews and larger stakeholder group meetings for engagement. The report also outlines the
company's key stakeholder groups, reflecting its commitment to engaging with a broad range of
stakeholders to ensure positive impacts on socioeconomic and environmental aspects.
3.1.4 GRI Standard and Disclosure
The report references the GRI Standards, indicating the company's commitment to transparent and
comprehensive sustainability reporting. This aligns with the GRI framework, which provides
guidelines for organizations to report on their economic, environmental, and social impacts.
3.1.5 Materiality Assessment
The report includes a section on materiality assessment, which is a key component of the GRI
framework. This involves identifying and managing material topics related to sustainability, such as
energy consumption, waste management, and employee well-being.
3.1.6 Innovation for the Planet
The report mentions the company's efforts to search for relevant innovators and startups through
accelerators, universities, and brand partners. This aligns with the innovation aspect of the ReSOLVE
framework, which focuses on finding and implementing sustainable innovations.
3.1.7 Employee Well-being and Development
The report discusses various training programs, upskilling initiatives, and transition assistance
programs for employees. This aligns with the focus on employee well-being and development within
the Triple Bottom Line framework, which emphasizes the importance of social sustainability and
human capital management.
3.1.8 Waste for Circularity
The report highlights the company's waste management initiatives, including policies for waste
reduction, circular practices, and partnerships for people. This aligns with the waste management
aspect of the 9 Rs of Circular Economy framework, which emphasizes rethinking, redesigning, and
remanufacturing materials to create a more sustainable and circular economy.
By aligning the information in the report with these frameworks, Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd. demonstrates
its commitment to sustainable practices, transparency, and fostering confidence and community
among all stakeholders. The company's efforts are structured to address environmental, social, and
economic impacts, reflecting a holistic approach to sustainability. By mapping the relevant
information in the report to these frameworks, we can gain a comprehensive understanding of Shahi
Exports' sustainability efforts and their alignment with established sustainability frameworks.
3.2 Frameworks that best align with the report
● The Triple Bottom Line framework aligns with Shahi's focus on people, the planet, and
prosperity, as highlighted in their 'Responsible For' framework.
● The ReSOLVE framework, standing for Responsible, Sustainable, Optimized, Lean,
Value-Driven, and Efficient, resonates with Shahi's sustainability initiatives.
● Shahi's commitment to social, environmental, and economic sustainability reflects its efforts
beyond financial performance.
● The emphasis on responsible environmental stewardship and efficient resource use aligns with
the ReSOLVE framework.
● These frameworks provide a comprehensive structure for evaluating and guiding Shahi's
sustainability practices, considering environmental, social, and economic impacts.
● The "9 Rs of Circular Economy" framework aligns well with Shahi's commitment to waste
reduction, recycling, and circular practices.
● Shahi's initiatives like fabric waste management and reducing virgin plastic usage align with
the principles of the 9 Rs framework.
● The "Triple Bottom Line" framework is relevant as it highlights Shahi's efforts in
environmental stewardship, social responsibility, and economic sustainability.
● The "ReSOLVE framework" may align with Shahi's innovation for the planet initiatives,
focusing on resilience, scalability, optimization, and empowerment.
3.3 Identifying initiatives, metrics, and goals related to each
framework category
The sustainability report of Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd. highlights various initiatives, metrics, and goals
related to each framework category:
3.3.1 'Responsible For' Framework
● Initiatives:
The company's 'Responsible For' framework encompasses initiatives such as energy and
emissions management, waste for circularity, a fair and respectful workplace, chemical and
material stewardship, and corporate social responsibility (CSR). These initiatives aim to
protect the environment, conserve resources, uphold human rights, manage waste sustainably,
and drive impact in health, education, skill development, and environmental management.
● Metrics:
Metrics related to this framework include energy efficiency improvements, renewable energy
adoption, waste management practices, and adherence to global standards for chemical
stewardship and zero discharge of hazardous chemicals.
● Goals:
The company aims to enhance innovation for the planet, conserve resources, improve
efficiency, and protect the environment. It also aims to drive impact in health, education, skill
development, and environmental management through its CSR initiatives.
3.3.2 ReSOLVE Framework
● Initiatives:
The ReSOLVE framework focuses on responsible, sustainable, optimized, lean, value-driven,
and efficient practices. Shahi's initiatives such as energy and emissions management, water
efficiency, waste for circularity, and a fair and respectful workplace align with the principles
of sustainability, optimization, and efficiency.
● Metrics:
Metrics related to this framework include water efficiency improvements, reduction in
freshwater dependence, adoption of renewable energy sources, and waste management for
circularity.
● Goals:
The company aims to reduce its reliance on freshwater, adopt renewable energy sources,
manage waste sustainably, and ensure fair and respectful workplace practices.
3.3.3 Triple Bottom Line (TBL) Framework
● Initiatives:
The TBL framework emphasizes social, environmental, and economic sustainability. Shahi's
initiatives related to employee health and well-being, fair and respectful workplace, and
corporate social responsibility align with the TBL framework's focus on people, the planet,
and prosperity.
● Metrics:
Metrics related to this framework include employee health and well-being indicators, fair
labor practices, and economic impact assessments of CSR initiatives.
● Goals:
The company aims to ensure employee safety, create awareness, and tackle health issues,
uphold human rights, and drive impact in health, education, skill development, and
environmental management.
These initiatives, metrics, and goals demonstrate Shahi Exports Pvt. Ltd.'s commitment to integrating
sustainability into its business operations and its dedication to addressing environmental, social, and
economic impacts. By aligning the company's initiatives, metrics, and goals with the 9 Rs of Circular
Economy, ReSOLVE framework, and Triple Bottom Line framework, we can gain a comprehensive
understanding of its sustainability efforts and their impact on waste management, innovation, and
employee well-being.
