The email came in just after opening, but I did not read it until nearly eleven. Mornings at the boutique often moved in a rhythm of their own—checking displays, greeting customers, adjusting fabrics in the light. It was only when Claudia stepped out to take a call and the shop was quiet that I sat at the counter with my tea and opened my inbox.

The subject line read: Invitation to Join the National Sustainability Council for Fashion.

I read it twice before leaning back in my chair. The ...