Corporate Social Responsibility means that, in the ordinary course of business, a company is operating in ways that enhance society and the environment instead of contributing negatively to them.

In 2019, Cotton Australia recognised it needed to work hard on a CSR initiative to protect the industry and supply chain partners including brands and retailers from the impact of practices occurring downstream from Australian cotton growers.

To discuss the CSR activity and its impact on communication activities and brand management, I am joined by Brooke Summers. Brooke is Supply Chain Consultant Cotton to Market for Cotton Australia.

Brooke discusses how workers’ rights in the textile and garment industries have come under particular and increasing scrutiny from governments, nongovernmental organisations (NGOs), and consumers.

Once the cotton enters global value chains, visibility is lost. It could be argued that because of that loss of visibility across the supply chain from cotton to retail in terms of sustainability, labour conditions, human rights, solving these issues for the fashion industry is difficult. Brooke explained why Cotton Australia started this lengthy and, expensive process. Listen as she explains the hands on communications strategy, its obstacles and successes as well as what’s at stake if they don’t succeed.

The University of Queensland is situated on the land of the

Turrbal/Jagera people.

Recorded in collaboration with

The University of Queensland

Producer David Gilchrist

Production support Jesslyn Tan and Iwina Gan

Technical Advisor Paul Smith

University Liaison Dr Caroline Wilson-Barnao