The fashion and apparel sector is a cornerstone of Sri Lanka's economy, providing employment to over 350,000 individuals directly and up to 1 million indirectly. Contributing approximately 7% to the national GDP, with export earnings exceeding USD 5.5 billion in 2023, the sector plays a pivotal role in the nation’s economic growth. However, the sector’s significant economic contribution is increasingly threatened by the impacts of climate change, which bring both direct and indirect financial challenges.

Climate-related disasters such as floods, storms, and temperature variations pose substantial risks to manufacturing hubs, supply chains, and local communities in key areas like Biyagama. These challenges have brought climate resilience into focus as a priority for the industry, necessitating urgent action to safeguard the sector's sustainability.

In response to these mounting challenges, this workshop assesses the impact of climate change-induced disasters on key hubs in the fashion and apparel sector, while evaluating existing disaster risk management mechanisms and preparedness within the sector

• Introduction to SLYCAN Trust’s ongoing initiatives addressing climate and disaster risk management in the fashion and apparel sector.
• Identify key entry points for strengthening collaboration, joint innovation, and coherence among fashion and apparel stakeholders to foster long-term resilience in the sector.
• Share insights on climate adaptation strategies and explore opportunities for integrating climate risk management into business practices.
• Build capacities and technical expertise among stakeholders, facilitating an exchange of information on effective climate resilience measures.