UPDATE: Corporate Water Leaders (CWL) has just announced a groundbreaking partnership with the ZDHC Foundation to accelerate water stewardship in the textiles and leather industries. The Memorandum of Understanding, revealed today, aims to deliver practical tools and harmonized guidance to tackle urgent water challenges faced by these sectors.
This alliance, confirmed on October 1, 2025, is set to reshape water management practices, focusing on data systems and sustainable methodologies that benefit brands, suppliers, and local communities. The CWL Textiles & Leather Task Force, consisting of eight leading global fashion brands, will spearhead this initiative, enhancing collaborative efforts that drive significant change across the industry.
Jess Chapman, Head of CWL, stated, “This MoU recognizes the leadership and credibility of the CWL Textiles & Leather Task Force. It sends a clear message that collaboration is how the industry will move forward on water.” Meanwhile, Frank Michel, CEO of ZDHC, emphasized the importance of this partnership: “Together, we can elevate water protection from individual factories to the ecosystems and societies that depend on it.”
This partnership is critical as the textiles and leather industries face growing scrutiny over their environmental impact. By uniting efforts, CWL and ZDHC are setting a new standard for water stewardship, with a focus on sustainable practices that resonate with both consumers and stakeholders.
The implications of this collaboration extend beyond corporate responsibility; they address a pressing global issue. With water resources dwindling and climate change exacerbating water scarcity, effective management is more crucial than ever. This initiative promises to transform how the industry approaches water usage, fostering resilience that will benefit future generations.
As CWL and ZDHC work together, industry leaders are urged to adopt these new guidelines and practices. The partnership aims to create a ripple effect, encouraging companies to integrate water resilience into their operations comprehensively.
Stay tuned for further developments as these organizations mobilize their efforts to redefine water stewardship in the textiles and leather sectors. The world is watching as this critical initiative unfolds, promising a sustainable future that prioritizes both environmental health and community well-being.
For more information on this partnership, visit the official CWL website at https://www.corporatewaterleaders.com.
