The data company Google and the nature conservation organization WWF want to help brands with data to better understand the environmental risks and effects of their procurement and to make more sustainable decisions.
The new tool is a digital platform called “Global Fiber Impact Explorer”, or GFIE for short. The platform combines the technical capabilities of Google Cloud with the expertise of the World Wide Fund for Nature, better known under the abbreviation WWF, in the field of environmental protection. The main goal of the tool is to identify high-risk fibers in the raw material portfolios of the brands and then to give them recommendations on how various measures can offset or prevent the environmental impact.
The first step is crucial
The raw material procurement phase in the supply chain is the largest contributor to the environmental impact of the fashion industry. Because of this, GFIE’s focus is on getting to the root of problems and helping brands make better sourcing decisions from the start.
The GFIE enables companies to view their portfolios in terms of five key categories: air pollution, forests, biodiversity, climate, and water use and quality. The tool also offers users a number of alternative fiber options that can be considered for production. The tool also shows measures that can be taken to reduce risk, such as exchanging fiber components, using certified raw materials or promoting local agriculture.
What data does the Global Fiber Impact Explorer work with?
The data available come from a variety of sources. One of them is Google’s Earth Engine Data Catalog, a cloud-based geospatial analysis platform available through partnerships with academic institutions that enables users to visualize and analyze satellite images of the planet.
In combination with data on existing sustainability risks and effects, there are various levels of analysis that are used within the tool. These sources allow the tool to identify risk factors by region and fiber.
This translated and edited post previously appeared on FashionUnited.uk. Translation and editing: Karenita Haalck.