Chemical Journeys

Untangling sustainability in the apparel industry - Libby Sommer

Chris Hughes Season 1 Episode 8

In this episode I am joined by Libby Sommer, an independent consultant working on sustainability in the apparel industry. 

Libby and I discuss:

  • Libby’s background and early career
  • Her work on sustainability and life cycle assessments in the apparel industry
  • Working with start-ups
  • Drivers of innovation
  • How sustainability focus areas have evolved over the years
  • The environmental and human costs of textile waste
  • Biodegradation and recycling of textiles
  • Reducing and mitigating environmental emissions
  • The Association for the Advancement of Alternatives Assessment (A4)
  • A4’s links with SETAC and the Safe and Sustainable by Design (SSbD) initiative


Libby’s website: Libby Sommer

Biomimicry Institute Design4Transformation initiative: Resources

Association for the Advancement of Alternatives Assessment (A4) website: Home — Safer Alternatives