International fashion brands are working with the University of Leeds to understand how textile manufacturing impacts the environment.
Staff from Spanish multinational Inditex, whose brands include Zara and Zara home, Massimo Dutti, Bershka, Stradivarius and Pull & Bear, are taking part in online professional development courses run by the University's School of Design.
Echoing one of the School's focus areas of research and education in environmental sustainability, Inditex partnered with Leeds to establish the Sustainable Fashion School.
The courses provide commercial teams with detailed practical knowledge of sustainable garment manufacturing. This has encouraged participants to consider how choices through design and production phases impact the environment.
These online courses were recognised in this year's Knowledge Exchange Framework (KEF). The framework measures how the higher education sector has a positive effect on the wider world.
Adrián Castro Rodríguez, Shirting and Knitwear Designer at Pull & Bear, said "As a fashion designer, it made me more aware of all the processes and the waste that our decisions can cause.
"I will definitely be more conscious about how to construct a garment and what kind of finishings I request.
"It helped me to open my eyes at work but as a consumer as well."
The School of Design has a long history of strong ties to industry, dating back to 1874 when the Yorkshire textile industry recognised the need for technical training and education for cloth workers.
The School has now launched the Professional Academy for Creative Enterprise (PACE), furthering collaboration with the fashion industry and Inditex by adding new modules to the Sustainable Fashion School.
PACE is an opportunity to bring research and practice together to enhance industry response to demands and challenges."
The new PACE academy will deliver innovative education, expert testing and consultancy services, as well as production and design services, all tailored to industry. Through combining the latest advancements in design and technology with innovation and collaboration a positive impact can be made across industry.
Professor Maria Lonsdale, Head of the School of Design and Director of PACE, said: "PACE is an opportunity to bring research and practice together to enhance industry response to demands and challenges.
"PACE seeks to equip professionals with the concrete knowledge and tools they need to excel and make a tangible contribution to industry and society on a global scale."
The online courses are designed to accommodate the schedules of busy professionals, with short courses covering a diverse range of subjects, including textiles and fashion, design, marketing and colour. Upon completion, participants receive a certificate from the University of Leeds.
PACE additionally offers on-site courses giving participants the opportunity to interact with academics and experts in a hands-on learning experience.
