NEWS & CSR

Why Brands That Care About Sustainability Are More Trusted in 2026

27 Jan 2026 | 70 Views | News Category: Sustainability

In recent years, you may have noticed more fashion brands highlighting “sustainable” or “eco-friendly” labels across their product lines. But in 2026, this is no longer just a trend — it has become a real factor that genuinely influences consumer decisions and trust in a brand.
It is no longer about following what’s popular, but about the reality that brands that care about sustainability are more trusted and have greater opportunities to grow in an increasingly competitive market.

What Sustainability Means in the Context of Brands and the Textile Business

Sustainability Is More Than Just “Eco-Friendly”

When we talk about sustainability, environmental impact is often the first thing that comes to mind. And it is true that aspects such as using planet-friendly materials and reducing waste are essential. However, sustainability in the textile business also includes:

Supply chain transparency (every stage of production is transparent)
Fair labor practices and worker welfare
Long-term commitment to responsible business practices

Brands that truly implement these principles do not just make promises — they support their claims with data, certifications, and measurable targets that can be audited. This is what makes consumers feel confident and secure when choosing your products.

Why Brands That Care About Sustainability Are More Trusted

1. Consumers Are Smarter and Demand Transparency

Recent data shows that more consumers want to understand where materials come from and how products impact the environment. According to the 2025 sustainability report, the use of certified materials increased from 58% in 2023 to 67% in 2024 among brands reporting their data to independent organizations, indicating a growing focus on sustainable materials across the global industry.

In addition, surveys reveal that eco-certified labels and sustainability claims can increase consumer trust by around 30%, as people feel they are purchasing products that align with their values.

2. Global Regulations Are Becoming Stricter

In many developed markets, including the United States and the European Union, brands are now required to meet reporting standards related to carbon footprint, water usage, and specific material use in order to sell their products.

This means that companies without credible sustainability reporting may struggle to access global markets and export opportunities. Meanwhile, businesses that adopt transparent reporting systems early are perceived as more professional and more trustworthy.

3. Increasing Competition Makes Sustainability a Key Differentiator

The textile industry accounts for nearly 8–10% of global greenhouse gas emissions, even higher than international transportation. This highlights the significant environmental impact of the industry — and consumers are becoming increasingly aware of it.

Brands that begin adopting more sustainable approaches, such as using organic cotton, recycled polyester, and regenerative-based materials, not only reduce their negative impact but also offer added value to consumers who want to support socially and environmentally responsible products.

Today’s consumers are no longer satisfied with “eco-friendly” claims without real evidence. They want to see certifications, data, and transparent supply chains behind the products they purchase.

4. Trust = Loyalty + Recommendation

Trust is not just about one-time purchases. Brands that are transparent about their sustainability commitments tend to build long-term loyalty, because you as a consumer feel that the brand is not just selling products, but also supporting values you believe in.

This is especially important in the era of social media and online reviews, where positive customer experiences — particularly around sustainability — can quickly spread and significantly enhance your brand reputation.

Relevance for You as a Textile Business Player

For those of you in the textile business, this means that your products must not only deliver high quality, but also position sustainability as part of your value proposition. This can be achieved through:

The use of certified materials
Reducing production waste
Transparency in material sourcing
Clear sustainability certifications

This approach not only helps you become part of the global industry’s positive transformation, but also enables you to build stronger consumer trust in 2026 and beyond.

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