Environmental certifications play a crucial role in instilling consumer trust and signalling adherence to environmental standards. However, the complexity and lack of consensus in measuring and implementing environmental standards results in confusion and high costs throughout the supply chain. Using qualitative data, we examine the perceived costs and benefits of environmental certification for organizations in the Australian fashion industry. Organizations in this industry encounter significant challenges in accessing and effectively leveraging environmental certification. The complexity of the contemporary certification landscape has led some organizations to turn to more comprehensive certification schemes, such as B Corp which offers a somewhat higher level of rigor in holding organizations to environmental standards. We document the challenges faced by organizations when engaging with certification practices in the Australian fashion industry. We suggest ways to address these issues and enhance the effectiveness of environmental certifications, to promote meaningful change and environmentally sustainable practices within the fashion industry.
