Sustainability compliance processes of the fashion industry within the framework of the European green deal: Policies, programs and future perspective in the context of Turkey

This thesis analyzes the impact of the European Green Deal on the fashion industry at a global level, focusing on the challenges faced by the sector, the innovative strategies adopted to achieve these goals, and the certification systems adopted to assess the fashion industry's sustainability adaptation processes. This assessment aims to demonstrate the capacity of the Turkish fashion industry to adapt to the sustainability transformation process. The study utilizes a qualitative research methodology, using document review and descriptive statistical analysis. Internationally, institutional and sectoral sources such as the European Commission, the United Nations, and the Ellen MacArthur Foundation were reviewed; in the case of Turkey, relevant ministries' documents, associations such as the Istanbul Ready-to-Wear and Apparel Exporters' Association and the Turkish Clothing Manufacturers' Association, as well as public and private sector reports were reviewed. Annual developments, sectoral distributions, and regional trends in certification systems were presented graphically, enabling visual comparisons. Furthermore, certification systems were categorized and tabulated according to predefined criteria. In the data analysis, the level of overlap between each certification and these criteria was numerically assessed, and percentage comparisons were made. Product- and facility-based sustainability certification systems were analyzed according to multidimensional criteria, and comparative analyses supported by graphics and tables revealed the strengths and weaknesses of certifications. The findings revealed that the Turkish fashion industry still addresses sustainability with a largely regulation-focused and fragmented approach, and that SMEs are disadvantaged in this transformation due to their lack of financial and technical iv capacity. It was observed that the fashion industry needs to utilize new technologies, plan personnel training, and invest in supply, production, and distribution infrastructure to adapt. Furthermore, it was understood that the use of industry-recognized certification systems should be expanded, and that the fashion industry has numerous resources to utilize for this restructuring. In conclusion, although the fashion industry's adaptation to the European Green Deal was anticipated to be a long and challenging process, it was understood that this process, in terms of equity sustainability, will be a long-term environmental, social, and economic opportunity.