University of Huddersfield and UKFT launch sustainability-focused CPD course
The University of Huddersfield has worked with the UK Fashion and Textiles Association (UKFT) to develop a new online short course designed for professionals working in the fashion and textile industry and its supply chains who aim to improve their sustainable practices.
Sustainable Practices in the Textile and Fashion Industry, a Continuing Professional Development course (CPD), launches from May 2025, with further intakes throughout the year.
The course will explore the concepts of sustainability in fashion and textiles and enhance knowledge and understanding of sustainable processes and practices. It will examine strategies to improve sustainability in various aspects of textile processing such as yarn and fabric manufacturing, textile dyeing and finishing processes.
It will introduce learners to Life Cycle Assessment (LCA), which will enable learners to evaluate the environmental impact associated with different textile and fashion products and processes throughout their entire lifecycle. It will also outline how to use an LCA toolkit effectively and apply this knowledge to individual business practices.
This short course is delivered 100% online and comprises approximately 50 hours of study.
Discover more about the Sustainable Practices in the Textile and Fashion Industry course
Learners will have access to all teaching and learning materials, including content from the UKFT’s library and via Brightspace, the University’s interactive Virtual Learning Environment.
The fee for UK and international students on this course will be £1,600.
Parik Goswami, Professor in Technical Textiles and Director - Research, Innovation, and Knowledge Exchange, commented, "This shows the University working with an industry association to identify essential skill requirements and to create a targeted short course. It also underscores the University's commitment to the UN Sustainable Development Goals and collaboration with stakeholders to achieve them.
“The initiative aims to bridge the skills gap within the fashion and textiles industry and foster a more sustainable and ethically aware workforce. By aligning the course content with the industry's specific needs, the University ensures that learners are well-equipped to tackle contemporary challenges and contribute meaningfully to their fields.”
Lizzy Dakin, Sustainability Manager at UKFT, said: “At UKFT, we are committed to driving sustainability across the fashion and textile industry. This new online short course, developed in collaboration with the University of Huddersfield, provides professionals with the essential knowledge and practical tools to implement more sustainable practices within their businesses.
“By exploring key concepts such as Life Cycle Assessment and responsible textile processing, learners will gain valuable insights into reducing environmental impact while maintaining industry excellence. We are excited to offer this opportunity to help people in our industry to make meaningful change across the supply chain."