Actively advocating for sustainable fashion, the Ghana Used Clothing Dealers Association (GUDCA) has confirmed participation in Landfills2Landmarks 2025, a conference addressing textile waste, circular economy, and economic transformation in Ghana's second-hand clothing sector. Scheduled for May 22-23, 2025 in Accra, this event will help foster collaboration among industry leaders and policymakers.
During a meeting with Henry Treku and Samuel Ofori-Gyampoh, Co-founders of the event, GUDCA reaffirmed its commitment to achieving 100 per cent textile waste diversion by 2050. However, they raised critical concerns regarding data transparency, media misrepresentations, the impact of fast fashion, and the need to modernize the Kantamanto market.
A central issue was the discrepancy in textile waste figures. GUDCA disputed claims of 40 per cent waste, asserting a more accurate figure of 5 per cent. They stressed the importance of reliable data for informed policy decisions and industry accountability.
GUDCA criticized fast fashion brands for manipulating sustainability narratives while contributing to the waste crisis. They challenged the credibility of brands promoting themselves as solutions without addressing overproduction. The association also questioned the effectiveness of Shein’s $15 million grant to The OR Foundation, arguing it doesn't solve the root problem of overproduction and declining garment quality.
GUDCA called for increased transparency in global sustainability efforts, emphasizing measurable impact over superficial appearances. They advocated for stronger import regulations to protect Ghana’s second-hand clothing sector and hold brands accountable for their environmental footprint.
The importance of modernizing Ghana's second-hand clothing market was highlighted to align with the 100 per cent waste diversion goal. Market modernization would improve waste management, create jobs, and mitigate risks like fires.
GUDCA reiterated the need for Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) policies to promote garment reuse and recycling, urging policymakers to implement these measures without harming livelihoods.
Treku emphasized addressing imbalances in the global second-hand clothing trade, advocating for transparency and fairness. He positioned Landfills2Landmarks 2025 as a vital platform for integrating sustainability into brand strategies, emphasizing the need for responsible production, waste reduction, and circular economy participation.
Ofori-Gyampoh introduced the CremeXchange Textile Traceability App and marketplace to improve data accuracy and transparency, and announced training programs for digital tools in circular commerce and waste tracking.
