an inclusive and multidimensional system for the fashion supply chain sustainability
4sustainability® is an innovative framework and registered trademark for assessing and managing the environmental and social impact of the fashion & luxury supply chain.
The framework is built around four key dimensions for companies operating within the fashion supply chain and includes, for each dimension:
- a harmonised structure for collecting qualitative and quantitative data;
- a data verification and assurance system to assess both data quality and the level of implementation of initiatives;
- a management system aimed at improving performance.
The four dimensions of the framework align with the priorities identified by the Global Fashion Agenda and with the strategic initiatives of leading brands in the market. They are also consistent with the methodologies developed by the sector’s major coalitions and associations (ZDHC, Aii, Textile Exchange, Fashion Pact, OECD, etc.). Each initiative is founded on, and contributes to, one or more of the United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
Ympact is the platform that enables supply chain companies to collect data according to the four dimensions of the framework and initiate the verification process. Companies that undergo a data verification or assurance process for at least one of the four dimensions of the framework are granted the right to use the 4sustainability® trademark. The verification or assurance process is carried out annually, with the report and verification statement updated accordingly.
key differentiators
a multidimensional system for data collection, implementation, reporting and improvement
4sustainability® is a multidimensional system that integrates data collection, verification, initiative implementation, performance assessment and structured reporting.
For each dimension, the model measures the level of maturity achieved by companies through the issuance of a statement reporting the percentage resulting from the assessment, together with the concrete KPIs that determine performance progression providing a clear and transparent view of the sustainability journey undertaken.
This approach enables companies to:
- manage their supply chain sustainability strategy through a single system;
- ensure the reliability of collected data and enhance the value of the actions undertaken;
- identify gaps and improvement priorities;
- manage pathways aligned with the sector’s leading standards and programmes.
a unique data collection and verification system aligned with international standards
The 4sustainability® system stands out for its unique data collection and verification mechanism, designed in compliance with major international standards and guidelines.
Its solid methodological framework meets brand requirements and regulatory expectations, ensuring data reliability, process consistency and credibility of communicated information. Independent assurance strengthens trust among supply chain actors and towards the market, reducing the risk of self-referential or non-verifiable approaches.
the 4 dimensions of the 4sustainability system
The framework consists of a section dedicated to describing the company and its processes, together with four dimensions for data collection and verification aimed at assessing risks and impacts.
The model is updated annually to reflect evolving regulations and ensure alignment and harmonisation with the latest industry initiatives.
Any company within the fashion supply chain can join the 4sustainability® system by activating one or more improvement initiatives and undertaking an annual verification or assurance process covering the relevant data and results achieved.
CHEMICAL MANAGEMENT en
4s CHEM
elimination of toxic and harmful chemicals from production cycles
PEOPLE en
4s PEOPLE
enhancing organisational wellbeing
PLANET en
4s PLANET
responsible use of resources to reduce environmental impact
ETHIC
4s ETHIC
legal, environmental and social compliance of the company
the 4sustainability Report – 4s Report
Following system adoption and each annual verification, companies receive a 4sustainability® Certificate along with a Report highlighting verified environmental and social sustainability performance. The Report serves as a communication and assurance tool, providing evidence of actions actually implemented by the company. Verified results and data are also updated and made available within Ympact, where they can be consulted and shared directly through the platform.