The Fashion industry, a global powerhouse worth $1.7 trillion, is facing an unprecedented challenge: extreme heat. As temperatures rise, so do the consequences for the millions of workers who power this industry, particularly in Asia. The impact is not just on human health but also on productivity and the
In the sprawling garment manufacturing facilities of eastern India, the effects of extreme heat are stark. The Epic Group‘s Khordha campus, a 40-acre site intended to employ up to 10,000 staff, is a case in point. Despite advanced cooling systems, the outside temperatures hover around 93 degrees, with humidity adding to the discomfort. This scenario is not unique to India; it is a growing concern across major garment production hubs.
The Human Cost of Extreme Heat
The human cost of extreme heat in the fashion industry is significant. Workers, predominantly women, face higher absenteeism and health issues. A study by the NYU Stern Center for Business and Human Rights found that productivity losses can reach up to 10% during peak summer months. The physical toll includes heat-related illnesses, with 87% of garment workers in India reporting such issues in the past year.
The industrial architecture of many factories was designed to protect machinery rather than workers. This oversight is now proving costly. Vidhura Ralapanawe, executive vice president for innovation and sustainability at Epic Group, likens the situation to a crab in a boiling pot. The gradual increase in temperatures goes unnoticed until it’s too late.
Innovative Solutions to Combat Heat
To mitigate the effects of extreme heat, some companies are taking innovative approaches. Epic Group’s Trimetro facility in Khordha is designed to limit temperatures through thermal insulation and efficient cooling systems. The facility uses oversized pipes and industrial heat pumps to reduce energy consumption while maintaining a comfortable working environment.
The adaptations go beyond cooling systems. The facility’s exterior walls are made from modified clay material, and the roof is heavily insulated to block ambient heat. These measures are part of a broader strategy to ensure worker comfort and productivity. The facility’s design has also been influenced by funding requirements, including a $100-million debt financing package from the International Finance Corp. (IFC) that includes strict targets on lowering greenhouse gas emissions and freshwater usage.
The Broader Impact on the Fashion Industry
The impact of extreme heat extends beyond individual factories. The fashion industry’s supply chain is increasingly vulnerable to weather extremes. A report by Cornell University’s Global Labor Institute and the IFC found that over the past two decades, roughly three-quarters of major global production hubs have experienced a 10% or more increase in the average number of days with temperatures above 95 degrees.
The consequences are far-reaching. Extreme heat and humidity can damage equipment and spoil the garment assembly process. Vijay Subramanyam Renduchintala, a general manager at Epic Group, emphasizes the need to care for fabric as one would for food. The industry must adapt to ensure both worker safety and product quality.
As the fashion industry grapples with these challenges, the need for climate-resilient clothing is becoming more apparent. Brands like Uniqlo are already developing ranges geared towards UV protection, while innovative fabrics that reduce skin temperature are on the horizon. The industry’s future may hinge on its ability to adapt to a warming world.
