Supported by the cluster for the fashion and textile industry in Norway – NF&TA, this two-year initiative aims to develop a practical framework for reliable PEF calculations in line with EU guidelines. “While PEFs are not yet mandatory, they are central to many EU policies and upcoming legislation, so in to support its members as well as the wider apparel and textile community, the NF&TA recognises that it is essential to address the challenges and potential barriers sooner rather than later,” states Gisle Mariani, Head of Development at NF&TA.

Since 2023, Trimco Group, a global leader in supply chain traceability, and Green Score Capital, an expert in science-based environmental metrics, have joined forces to assist brands with PEF calculations. While the PEF method is critical to standardizing environmental footprint measurement, the volume and complexity of data required have created significant hurdles for brands. Recognizing this, the NF&TA supported by Innovation Norway, is funding a project designed to simplify the process and empower the textile industry. Camilla Mjelde, Compliance & Sustainability Director at Trimco Group, explains, “Brands are willing to commit to PEF, but the barriers lie in accessing and managing the necessary data. This initiative aims to streamline data gathering and improve transparency.” Valérie Tiersen, Founder and Chairwoman of Green Score Capital, adds, “This is a first step that will help brands identify the products with the biggest impact. The goal is effectively to demonstrate it is possible to measure and then, to improve.”

The project unites four Norwegian brands

• Bergans of Norway, a leading Norwegian outdoor brand, will focus on PEF impacts unique to this sector.

• Camilla Pihl representing mid and high-end fashion, will explore how LCA and PEF can support the process in making data driven material and supplier choices to reduce the environmental impact across the lifecycle of a garment. Besides, it will strengthen and standardize the data gathering and data sharing, improve the digital sustainability tracking and ensure compliance with EU regulations.

• Holzweiler, a high-end fashion brand already using Trimco’s product DNA solution, will highlight fully integrated digital approaches.

• Sverre W. Monsen, representing workwear, will explore how industrial wash and B2B requirements affect LCA and PEF.

Guiding brands toward a sustainable future

The project aims to identify the exact data required for accurate LCAs, streamline its collection from various systems (e.g., Trimco Group’s ProductDNA, PLM, ERP), and apply advanced tools like Green Score Capital’s technology. This ensures gaps in data can be bridged using EU-regulated emission factors and other innovative methods.

The initiative also recognizes the evolving nature of PEF regulations. While not mandatory under the ESPR (Ecodesign for Sustainable Products Regulation) with its Digital Product Passport (DPP), PEF elements align closely with the CSRD reporting requirements. This puts the project at the forefront, helping brands prepare for future responsibilities and supporting their sustainability strategies. The working team will share findings through regular reports, webinars, and articles throughout the collaboration. These sessions will cover key milestones, such as data collection, calculation methods, and actionable steps for improving PEF results, empowering other brands to join the journey toward increased environmental accountability.