Premium and sustainable outdoor kidswear brand ISBJÖRN OF SWEDEN has outlined its ambitious sustainability pledge which includes bold Net Zero targets, going completely microplastic-free and becoming a fully circular brand.
Its aim has always been to make premium, fit-for-purpose outerwear for children and teenagers and it was the first outdoor kids brand to become a bluesign® system partner. Protecting both children and the planet has been the company’s focus since its foundation almost 20 years ago.
The team also recognises that the fashion industry is a major contributor in the rise in greenhouse gases and is determined to take a bigger responsibility to reduce CO2 emissions.
Isbjörn is fully committed to reducing emissions by at least 50% by 2033 with the bold aim to become a Net Zero company by 2045. To achieve this, an ambitious roadmap has been launched. It sets out pledges and goals to ensure Isbjörn goes a step further to protect the planet. It aims to do its bit to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2050, in accordance with the UN’s objective.
Selma Jakobsson, Production & Sustainability Manager, said, “We want to leave a healthy planet for future generations of kids. We want them to be able to explore rich forests and see icebergs and this is why we’re taking an even bigger responsibility, setting bold yet achievable targets to become a net zero company.
“We will publish yearly measured reports and be completely transparent as we progress in our journey, aiming to reduce carbon emissions by at least 4.2% each year to achieve our 2033 goal.”
The roadmap to becoming net zero includes becoming fully circular by 2030 with all materials used in its garments being 100% recycled or biodegradable. Customers will also be able to return worn garments for resale or recycling so the loop can be fully closed. Going microplastic-free is also high on the agenda with plans already in place to phase out the use of virgin microplastics completely by 2026.
Jakobsson added, “In order to achieve our reduction goals, we need to be fully circular – using sustainable materials to produce long lasting and durable products, working with renewable energy and continuing to support FSC-certified responsible and sustainable forestry.”
Isbjörn’s roadmap to becoming Net Zero includes:
Renewable Energy
Isbjörn has already start to switch to using renewable energy sources across its suppliers, manufacturers and warehousing as well as its headquarters in Stockholm.
Logistics
Source local materials and use train transportation wherever possible and avoid air shipment.
Circular Business
Use only recycled or biodegradable materials and prolong the lifecycle of Isbjörn’s highly durable garments on the second-hand market.
Upcycling
Reducing waste and reusing to make products; the first product made from waste material will be available from Autumn/Winter 22.
Invest in Nature
Promote healthy forestry to reduce CO2 emissions and protect eco-system and wildlife.
Annual Reporting
Publish a yearly emissions report for complete transparency with results verified by an independent agency.
