The looming threat of climate change has driven many fashion houses to reexamine their practices. Burberry is the first luxury fashion label to obtain the Science Based Targets initiative’s (SBTi’s) approval for its net-zero emissions targets.
The SBTi is regarded the gold standard for companies setting objectives to reduce their emissions and formulate targets in line with the Paris Agreement’s 1.5 C pathway. It was created in partnership between CDP, the United Nations Global Compact, World Resources Institute, and the World Wide Fund for Nature.
Burberry wants to curb climate crisis
“Burberry’s net-zero targets match the urgency of the climate crisis and set a clear example that their peers must follow,” said SBTi CEO Luiz Amaral in a statement. “Climate science tells us that we need rapid and deep emissions cuts if we are to achieve global net-zero and prevent the most damaging effects of climate change.”
Professionals assert it’s crucial that companies follow up on their targets and invest in technologies and research to reduce emissions. Burberry has several commitments to reduce scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions to uphold its net-zero emissions goal.
- Scopes 1 and 2 cover emissions generated from Burberry’s own procedures, such as electricity and gas in stores, manufacturing hubs, and offices – It aims to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 95% by 2023, correlated to 2017 levels.
- Scope 3 relates to emissions in its extended supply chain, such as energy usage by manufacturing and material sourcing partners – Scope 3 emissions will be reduced by 46.2% by 2030, correlated to 2019 levels.
Burberry was one of the first luxury companies to join the SBTi in 2019 and it’s targets for net-zero emissions are a first in the industry. The British luxury brand is currently carbon-neutral across all global operations and has set the target to become climate positive by 2040.
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Both Chanel and Hermès also received approval from SBTI for their emission reduction goals, but Burberry’s targets for net-zero emissions mark a major first for the fashion industry.
“Rooting our commitments in science has always been a priority at Burberry, so we can ensure the steps we are taking will have the necessary impact and bring about lasting change,” said Burberry VP of corporate responsibility, Caroline Laurie.
“We continue to challenge ourselves to drive measurement, improvement, and transparency across our operations, and we are committed to continuing working with our suppliers and partners to accelerate the adoption of more sustainable practices. We hope this encourages others to do the same.” She added encouraging other companies to follow suit.
The validation ascertains the goals Burberry has set to reach net zero emissions are based on the latest climate science and meet the crucial need to keep warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius in line with the Paris Agreement.
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