a conversation on
TAKING RESPONSIBILITY FOR THE IMPACT WE HAVE
ARKET Head of Production and Sustainability
Environment Fashion is one of the world’s most resource-intensive industries, with a large climate footprint. But for many of us working here at ARKET, it is precisely the ability to be part of the progress and make contributions towards a circular economy that motivates us to do what we do.
‘I have been in the textile industry for over 20 years and I’ve spent much of that time working in production, visiting factories and collaborating hands-on with suppliers. It’s a known fact that garment production is extremely resource intensive. It takes a lot of energy and water to produce a T-shirt or a pair of jeans. One of the greatest responsibilities we have is to make sure we do everything we can to reduce the environmental impact of our products. It’s also a strong driving force for me personally – to be able to shape and influence change.
‘It is a strong driving force for me personally; to be able to shape and influence change.’
environment Sofia Snöborgs
We have a much more direct relationship with the garment makers, who knit and sew our products, compared to the suppliers who produce our materials. The tighter the collaboration, the bigger opportunity we have to make specific demands and drive the sustainable development forward. We are currently reducing the number of suppliers we’re working with, on all levels. It helps us build even stronger relationships with selected partners, which in turn opens up for us to impact the whole production chain from raw material to the finished product. Together we can define clear and measurable goals for reduced water usage and renewable energy. And we can support smaller initiatives directly by co-investing in their development, such as solar plants at the factories or programs for rainwater harvesting. These are mutually benefitting projects between us and our partners. We have to create a meaningful and sustainable business for both parties, and our suppliers need to know their investment will pay off. But under all circumstances, it’s not an alternative to just continue increasing the use of resources.
Many times, the customer will not notice the great improvements we’re making. In just a few years, we have significantly reduced the amount of water used for our denim products. Our suppliers in Turkey and Bangladesh are using a special technology for dyeing and washing denim garments which requires much less water but results in an identical look and feel.
We always have to consider the quality and desirability of the products we’re making. If the garment isn’t beautiful enough or if it wears out quickly, then sustainable materials and practices will not change anything. It needs to be something that our customers will use and cherish for many years, otherwise it’s never going to be sustainable in the long run.’
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