The report underscores the company’s commitment to a sustainable and circular fashion industry amid global social, environmental, and economic challenges.
H&M has released its Annual and Sustainability Report for 2023, detailing the company’s strides towards sustainability targets.
Highlights include a 22 per cent supply chain GHG emission reduction, 85 per cent use of sustainable materials and a 55 per cent cut in plastic packaging, aligning with its commitment to a sustainable and circular fashion industry.
The company also reported that 85 per cent of its materials are now recycled or sustainably sourced, with a goal to reach 100 per cent by 2030. Notably, recycled materials accounted for 25 per cent of the total, a figure H&M aims to double within the next seven years.
In addition, H&M Group achieved a 29 per cent reduction in electricity intensity per square metre and opening hour in its stores, surpassing its 25 per cent reduction target seven years ahead of schedule. The company also reported a 55 per cent reduction in plastic packaging since 2018, moving closer to its objective of using solely recycled or sustainably sourced packaging materials by 2030.
The report also highlighted the engagement of over 200,000 workers from more than 750 supplier factories in a worker voice survey. This initiative is designed to establish clear priorities and develop effective roadmaps, improving grievance mechanisms within the supply chain.
Leyla Ertur, H&M Group’s head of sustainability, emphasised the importance of integrating ambitious environmental actions with equitable transitions within the fashion sector. “Ambitious and concrete actions to reduce emissions and resource use must go hand in hand with contributing to a just transition for the millions who rely on the fashion industry for their livelihood.”
Fibre2Fashion News Desk (RM)