A presentation on ‘the Status of European Fashion’ report by Elke Timmerman, Board Member of EFA. The study showed that the negative image of the industry is mainly influenced by fast fashion, but that a positive change is influenced by the creative SMEs. According to the survey participants, three main solutions would help improve public opinion: consumer education, regulatory action and sustainable business models. One further main learning of the survey is that SMEs are not fully prepared for the upcoming EU regulations. Important and well overdue CSR-manager positions mainly can’t be created due to missing resources. The following panel discussions on policy, education and innovation, led by prominent figures from the fashion industry, allowed panellists to share their perspectives and expertise on navigating the evolving sustainability landscape.