AMHSSC Launches eLearning Course on Apparel Sustainability in Partnership with bluesign

NEW DELHI: The Apparel Made-Ups & Home Furnishing Sector Skill Council (AMHSSC), in collaboration with bluesign®, has launched a pioneering eLearning course titled “Foundation to Apparel Sustainability.” This initiative aims to elevate the Indian apparel sector’s proficiency in sustainable practices and foster a culture of environmental responsibility.

AMHSSC is committed to enhancing skill development within the apparel industry, ensuring a workforce that aligns with evolving industry standards. bluesign®, renowned for its gold-standard in sustainable textiles, joins this venture to provide a comprehensive eLearning programme focused on sustainable practices.
The course is meticulously designed to impart essential knowledge on implementing sustainability principles in the apparel industry. It aligns with global development goals, addressing critical environmental issues such as greenhouse gas emissions, water scarcity, pollution, and social challenges including working conditions and labour rights.
Participants will explore a range of topics crucial for understanding and implementing sustainable practices. The curriculum covers principles of sustainable fashion, including the shift from fast fashion to slow fashion, sustainable design, and the circular economy. It also delves into responsible manufacturing practices and the use of alternative materials like recycled and organic fibres.

A key component of the course is its focus on best available techniques (BAT) in the apparel industry. This includes mechanical and chemical recycling, upcycling, downcycling, closed-loop and open-loop recycling, fibre-to-fibre recycling, and apparel reuse and recovery technologies. Advanced methods such as anaerobic digestion, fermentation, composting, thermal recovery, and converting apparel waste into building materials are also covered.

The course highlights the importance of consumer education in driving demand for sustainable fashion, encouraging informed purchasing decisions, and promoting brands committed to ethical practices.
Padma Shri Dr. A Sakthivel, Chairman of AMHSSC, expressed, “This eLearning course represents a crucial step for the Indian apparel sector, addressing the urgent need for sustainability and equipping our industry to meet global standards. It will benefit current professionals and inspire future generations to adopt and champion sustainable practices.”
Dr. Vijay Kumar Yadav, CEO of AMHSSC, added, “This course is a significant stride towards a sustainable future for the Indian apparel industry. By providing our workforce with the knowledge and skills to implement sustainable practices, we are contributing to global sustainability goals and ensuring the long-term viability of our industry.”
Mr. Daniel Rufenacht, CEO of bluesign® Technologies AG, noted, “With the global shifts in the textile industry, it’s crucial that India’s apparel sector understands industry challenges and is updated on global legislation. We are pleased to collaborate with AMHSSC to equip the industry with sustainable practices and reduce future impact.”
Ms. Katharina Verena Mayer, CRM Director for South Asia at bluesign®, added, “Our partnership with AMHSSC underscores our commitment to environmental responsibility and continuous improvement in performance. This course will help the industry meet global sustainability standards and reduce its environmental footprint.”
This collaboration marks a transformative moment for the Indian apparel sector, paving the way for a new generation of professionals adept in sustainability principles. By bridging the knowledge gap and offering practical solutions to environmental and social challenges, AMHSSC and bluesign® are shaping the future of fashion towards a healthier planet and a more equitable society.