Berghaus, an outdoor brand said it has joined the international Bluesign sustainability system, which is part of an ongoing programme designed to eliminate harmful substances from the firm’s supply chain.
“Berghaus will do so by identifying and working with responsible textile mills and component suppliers,” it said in a press release.
In recent years, Berghaus said, it has dedicated more resources to reducing the environmental impact of its activities.
A particular focus has been placed on water use in product manufacture, recognising the increasing pressure that is being put on this limited resource by growing populations and industrialisation.
The textile industry in particular is highly water intensive, both in terms of extraction and pollution, with an estimated 20 per cent of global industrial water pollution coming from the textiles industry alone.
“Berghaus’ commitment extends to working with suppliers and textile mills which are able to demonstrate they can manage water in the cleanest and most efficient ways.
“This will help minimising the impact on the water systems in the countries from which they source,” it added.
In 2014, the company revealed details of a new colouring technology it introduced for a range of woven products.
This technology helps reduce water use by 89 per cent compared to traditional methods, while also reducing chemical use by 63 per cent and significantly reducing CO2 emissions.
Bluesign is a global initiative which works with chemical suppliers, textile mills and component manufacturers to eliminate harmful substances from the supply chain.
Berghaus has worked with Bluesign and its supply chain to ensure that its products meet demanding requirements in terms of hazardous substances, worker safety and environmental protection.
Consumers will soon be able to find numerous products in the current Berghaus range which contain bluesign approved fabrics, including the award winning ECO Wovens apparel.
The company is aiming for 70 per cent of its products to contain a Bluesign approved fabric by Spring/Summer 2016.
Corporate sustainability officer Elaine Gardiner said, “We have put a great deal of work into this project and this is a very significant moment for the brand.”
“Bluesign has major credibility around the world and will give retailers and consumers assurance that our products not only perform but are more environmentally friendly than ever,” she too added
“We will however continue the drive to design and develop socially and environmentally responsible products in every part of the Berghaus collection,” Gardiner observed.
