Words by Smiley Team
Excessive consumption, promoted by fast fashion is quickly depleting the world’s natural resources. To lessen its toll on nature, Adidas is adjusting its production and supply chains to meet the needs of an increasingly fragile planet.
Among various other endeavours, the brand promises to make more than 60 per cent of its products from recycled polyester this year, raising this to 100 per cent from 2024.
In collaboration with the environmental organisation Parley for the Oceans, the clothes brand aims to make 17 million pairs of shoes with recycled plastic waste collected from beaches and coastal regions, up from more than 15 million in 2020.
It is also expanding its vegan ranges and developing plant-based leather, recycled cotton as well as a climate-friendly running shoe.
To top it all, Adidas intends to reduce its carbon footprint by more than 50 per cent compared to 2015 and to achieve global climate neutrality by 2050 by divesting from fossil fuels.
Adidas CEO Kasper Rorsted said: “Sustainability is an integral part of the Adidas business philosophy. We have continued to invest in sustainability initiatives during the coronavirus pandemic and we will significantly expand our range of sustainable products in 2021.”
The fashion industry is responsible for 20 per cent of global water wasted and 10 per cent of carbon emissions. So companies’ attempts at going green are vital for the planet to survive.
Hoping to encourage others to manufacture more responsibly, Rorsted said: “Not only does our commitment make Adidas more sustainable, but it also drives the development of the whole industry.”
Buying recycled clothing is just one step you can take to reduce your personal carbon footprint. But remember, the most environmentally-friendly clothes are the ones already in your closet.
