CNA Nazionale has launched a strategic initiative to map and catalogue sustainability practices implemented by companies within the CNA system. The purpose is to understand how micro, small and medium-sized enterprises (MSMEs) interpret and apply sustainability in their daily operations and to design CNA-wide actions based on real practices and needs.

Timeline & Methodology:

• November 2023 – Launch of national survey among CNA companies
• January 2024 – Closure of data collection

The questionnaire investigated practices across three dimensions: governance, process, and product.

Key Results from the Mapping:

• High engagement: Companies from all regions and sectors participated

• Priority areas of sustainable practices identified:

  - Environmental practices (e.g. waste management, energy use)

  - Workplace practices (e.g. inclusion, health & safety)

  - Product innovation (e.g. use of sustainable materials, eco-design)

   

The most reported types of activities include:

• Slow Fashion;
• Reduction of environmental impact;
• Improvement of internal organisational processes;
• Commitment to transparency and ethical business models;
• Actions towards community and territory engagement.

Next Steps (2024 and beyond):

• Dissemination of results through CNA sectoral unions and regional structures
• Design of targeted tools and actions, including training, advisory services, and SME support strategies
• Ongoing promotion of virtuous practices through institutional and public engagement

The first dissemination milestone was achieved during the G7 ACT on Circular Textiles and Fashion held in Rome (December 2024), where CNA contributed to the international dialogue by sharing preliminary insights from the mapping. CNA also presented insights during the Circular Value Forum 2025 in Genoa (8–9 April 2025), participating in the session on textiles and apparel, with a focus on the mapping results.

Similar initiatives have been and will continue to be promoted, both nationally and internationally, to enhance awareness and reinforce the strategic role of SMEs in the sustainable transition of the textile and fashion sectors.