The revised framework introduces five assessment categories, simpler colour ratings and a stronger focus on next-generation fibres, traceability and forest conservation.
Canopy, an environmental non-profit organisation, has announced updated criteria for its annual Hot Button Report. The report assesses man-made cellulosic fibre (MMCF) producers on responsible forest sourcing and their progress in developing next-generation fibres.
The new framework aims to drive change across the viscose, rayon and wider MMCF industry. It places greater emphasis on next-generation fibres, supply chain transparency and forest conservation. At the same time, it continues to prioritise responsible sourcing.
The changes mark the next phase of Canopy’s Hot Button initiative. Over the past decade, the initiative has helped address forest-related risks in textile supply chains. Now, climate pressures and changing regulations are creating new challenges. Therefore, the updated framework aims to improve industry accountability and support a circular, resilient fibre system.
Key Changes to the Hot Button Report
The revised framework makes the assessment process simpler. It also sets clearer expectations for fibre producers.
Key changes include:
- Five assessment categories: Canopy has reduced the number of categories from seven to five. This makes the evaluation process simpler.
- Three-colour rating system: The report will use green, yellow and red shirts to rate producers. This replaces the previous rating system.
- Clearer performance targets: The criteria set targets based on both volumes and percentages. They also consider the different capabilities of small, medium and large producers.
- Stronger risk assessment: Producers with known high-risk sourcing will receive a red shirt rating.
- Greater focus on next-generation fibres: The framework rewards producers that invest in scaling alternative fibre solutions, including fibres made from recycled textiles.
- Better traceability and conservation: The report will give more attention to supply chain transparency and conservation projects across landscapes.
Supporting Responsible Fibre Sourcing and Circularity
The Hot Button Report assesses producers of viscose and other man-made cellulosic fibres. These include lyocell and acetate. It examines their forest sourcing practices and efforts to scale next-generation fibres.
Producers earn buttons when they meet specific criteria. Canopy then assigns an overall shirt colour rating. A green shirt indicates low or no known risk of sourcing from Ancient and Endangered Forests or using controversial fibre in the producer’s supply chain.
The report also helps brands make sourcing decisions. More than 550 brands in CanopyStyle use it as a reference to reduce forest-related risks in their textile supply chains.
Furthermore, the updated criteria place greater emphasis on recycled textile feedstocks and other next-generation solutions. Through this approach, Canopy aims to reduce the industry’s reliance on conventional forest-based raw materials. It also seeks to support more circular material systems.
Industry Consultation and Regulatory Alignment
Canopy developed the revised criteria after consulting all 28 MMCF producers assessed under the report, along with selected brand partners. The organisation also conducted a legal review to align the framework with international legislation.
The updated criteria aim to create a consistent and fair assessment system. They will help producers plan investments and track progress. At the same time, the framework recognises that producers may follow different paths towards environmental goals.
Maryann Ramirez, Senior Lead at Canopy, said: “The Hot Button helped change the conversation about where fashion’s fibres come from. Ten years ago, the industry was asking whether viscose could be sourced without destroying the world’s most vital forests. Today, we have the opportunity to build a fibre system that is circular, resilient, and keeps forests standing.”
Ramirez added: “Hot Button is a system that must feel fair, equitable, and consistent year-to-year so producers can plan with confidence. At the same time, it must remain flexible enough to credit diverse pathways to impact”
Canopy will apply the revised criteria in the 2027 Hot Button Report. This marks the next stage in its efforts to promote responsible fibre sourcing, protect forests and increase the use of next-generation materials across the global fashion and textile industries.
