BREAKING: Corporate Water Leaders (CWL) has just finalized a pivotal Memorandum of Understanding with the ZDHC Foundation to revolutionize water stewardship in the textiles and leather industry. This urgent partnership, announced October 1, 2025, aims to equip companies with essential tools for sustainable water management, making immediate impacts felt across global supply chains.
The collaboration is set to streamline guidance and enhance data reporting systems, ultimately driving effective water management practices that benefit brands, suppliers, and local communities alike. As water scarcity intensifies worldwide, this initiative responds to an urgent need for coordinated action in the fashion industry.
The CWL Textiles & Leather Task Force, comprising eight leading global fashion brands, is at the forefront of this movement. Their initiatives encompass policy engagement, knowledge sharing, and the development of actionable tools designed to translate ambitious global goals into real-world impact. By aligning efforts and resources, the task force is determined to elevate water stewardship standards across the industry.
“This MoU recognizes the leadership and credibility of the CWL Textiles & Leather Task Force, and its alignment with ZDHC,” said Jess Chapman, Head of CWL. “It sends a clear message that collaboration is how the industry will move forward on water.”
“This partnership represents a natural progression for ZDHC,” remarked Frank Michel, CEO of ZDHC. “Together, we can elevate water protection from individual factories to the ecosystems and societies that depend on it.”
The urgency of this initiative cannot be overstated. As industries face increasing scrutiny over their environmental impact, the CWL and ZDHC partnership is not just a strategic alliance; it is a call to action for corporate responsibility in water stewardship. This collaboration is expected to set new benchmarks for sustainability, ensuring that water resilience becomes a top priority in corporate operations.
For those involved in the textiles and leather sectors, this announcement marks a critical turning point. With more than 380 signatories already engaged in the ZDHC Foundation’s Roadmap to Zero Programme, this partnership signifies a collective commitment to sustainable practices. The implications for local communities and global ecosystems are profound, emphasizing the pressing need for industries to adopt sustainable water management strategies.
As the CWL and ZDHC prepare to implement their joint initiatives, stakeholders are urged to stay tuned for updates on how these transformative strategies will reshape water stewardship practices in the coming months. This development is set to influence not only brand strategies but also the livelihoods of countless individuals reliant on sustainable water resources.
Follow this urgent story as it unfolds, and learn how this landmark partnership aims to create a more sustainable future for the textiles and leather industries worldwide.
For more information, visit Corporate Water Leaders and stay informed about the latest developments in water stewardship.
