THE BLUE ECONOMY IN FASHION

Reimagining Fashion for Ocean Futures

As climate change intensifies, coastal erosion accelerates, and marine biodiversity faces increasing threat, the global fashion industry stands at a critical intersection—between creativity and climate responsibility.

AFWA 2025 pioneers this conversation by embedding the Blue Economy into the heart of fashion. We explore how ocean-centered innovation can redefine how we design, produce, consume, and recycle fashion—for people and the planet.

What Is the Blue Economy?

The Blue Economy refers to the sustainable use of ocean resources for economic growth, improved livelihoods, and jobs—while preserving the health of ocean ecosystems.

It’s about harmony with our coasts, waters, and communities. In fashion, this means shifting towards:

• Marine-inspired materials: Seaweed-based fabrics, fish leather, ocean plastics turned into garments.

• Eco-conscious production: Reducing waste, water use, and harmful dyes in fashion supply chains.

• Ocean-positive storytelling: Celebrating coastal identities, marine folklore, and aquatic aesthetics in fashion narratives.

Why It Matters for Fashion

• 70% of the planet is ocean—but most fashion systems ignore it.

• Coastal African cities face rising sea levels and plastic pollution—fashion can’t afford to remain silent.

• Fashion is the second most polluting industry globally—yet it holds untapped potential for blue innovation.

By connecting coastal communities, designers, scientists, and entrepreneurs, we are creating new ecosystems where fashion becomes a force for ecological restoration and circular economies.

How AFWA 2025 Is Leading the Way:

• Curated collections focused on marine themes and recycled materials

• Panels exploring ocean sustainability, innovation, and eco-policy

• Exhibitions linking cultural storytelling to marine stewardship

• Diaspora collaborations highlighting the resilience of coastal traditions

Join the Blue Shift

Be part of a movement where fashion meets purpose. Where creativity protects coastlines. Where African innovation leads the world into a cleaner, bluer future.