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The report finds that global fashion brands are increasing their dependence on synthetic fibres to sustain the 'fast fashion' business model while using 'distraction and delay' tactics to avoid meaningful action on microplastic pollution. Despite scientific evidence linking microplastics to severe health risks, most brands lack transparency, with 54% of surveyed companies failing to respond fully to the inquiry. The study highlights that recycled polyester from plastic bottles is an ineffective solution that does not address microplastic leakage. Furthermore, the industry shows minimal support for binding legislation, such as the EU's textile strategies, preferring weak voluntary initiatives.

The Corporate Climate Stocktake 2023 reveals that while clean technology adoption is accelerating in sectors like power and road transport, systemic barriers—including infrastructure gaps, high 'green premiums', and workforce shortages—persist. The report argues that national emissions targets alone are insufficient and calls for multilateral coordination of industrial policy and sector-specific strategies to drive the diffusion of clean technologies.