Tue, 23 Sep 2008 10:14

Ethical clothing should become the "norm", an industry expert has claimed.However, according to Rebecca Peake, marketing manager at ethical fashion retailer Adili, this can only happen if there is a fundamental shift in "standards".Figures from the Fairtrade Foundation show that ethically and environmentally-sourced produce, such as organic workwear, is growing in popularity.Between April and June 2008 ethical trade increased by £63 million compared to the same period in 2007.However, in terms of the fashion industry and corporate clothing, Ms Peake suggests that more needs to be done.She told the Independent: "You should pay people a decent wage and take responsibility for the effects your business has on the environment – it's a no-brainer!"We need to shift our standards and make being ethical the norm."Meanwhile, figures from the Fairtrade Foundation forecast that the market will grow by 138 per cent over the next three years.