Vans is a well-known brand that specializes in the production of skateboarding shoes and apparel. The company has been in existence for over five decades and has experienced tremendous growth over the years. However, as the world becomes increasingly aware of the impact of human activities on the environment, more companies are looking for ways to reduce their environmental footprint. Vans is one of such companies, and they have been taking significant steps to become more sustainable. The company has implemented various measures to reduce its environmental impact, starting with the launch of the Vans’ Environmental Responsibility Program (ERP) in 2011.
In 2011, Vans launched the Vans’ Environmental Responsibility Program (ERP), which was a five-year plan aimed at reducing waste and energy consumption across its global operations. The ERP set targets for the company to reduce its waste, water, and energy usage by 25% by 2015. To achieve these targets, Vans adopted several sustainability measures, including using sustainable materials in its products and packaging, reducing energy consumption, reducing waste, conserving water, and using eco-friendly packaging materials.
One of the key sustainability measures implemented by Vans was the use of eco-friendly materials in its products. In 2011, the company launched a range of shoes made from hemp, a sustainable material that requires less water and pesticides to grow compared to conventional cotton. The company also introduced the UltraRange Eco, a shoe made from recycled polyester, and the Eco Theory collection, which uses recycled rubber, water-based inks, and organic cotton. By using sustainable materials, Vans was able to reduce its environmental impact while providing high-quality products to its customers.
To reduce its reliance on fossil fuels, Vans invested in renewable energy sources such as solar panels, which it installed in some of its stores and distribution centers. The company also implemented energy-efficient lighting and heating systems to reduce energy consumption in its facilities. By reducing its energy consumption, Vans was able to lower its carbon footprint and reduce its impact on the environment.
Another significant measure implemented by Vans was the reduction of waste in its facilities. The company set up recycling stations in its facilities to collect materials such as paper, plastic, and metal. Vans also composted food waste and other organic materials generated in its facilities, which helped to reduce the amount of waste sent to landfills. By 2015, the company had achieved its target of reducing waste by 25%, which was a significant achievement towards sustainability.
Vans also implemented measures to conserve water in its facilities. The company used low-flow toilets and faucets in its facilities and introduced waterless printing techniques to reduce water usage in its textile printing process. By conserving water, Vans was able to reduce its environmental impact while reducing its operating costs.
In recent years, Vans has continued to prioritize sustainability by setting new targets to guide its efforts towards achieving a circular economy. The company aims to transition to 100% renewable energy by 2025, with 50% of its facilities currently powered by renewable energy sources. Vans also aims to achieve zero waste to landfill across its operations by 2030, by reducing waste generation, increasing recycling and composting, and diverting waste from landfills through circular solutions.
Vans is committed to using sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and water-based inks in its products and packaging. The company is also working towards eliminating hazardous chemicals from its supply chain and reducing the use of chemicals of concern in its products. By prioritizing sustainability, Vans is demonstrating its commitment to reducing its environmental impact while providing high-quality products to its customers.
Vans is committed to using sustainable materials such as recycled polyester, organic cotton, and water-based inks in its products and packaging. The company is also working towards eliminating hazardous chemicals from its supply chain and reducing the use of chemicals of concern in its products.
Overall, Vans’ efforts towards sustainability have been ongoing for over a decade, with notable achievements such as reducing waste, water, and energy consumption. By setting new targets, Vans is continually improving upon its commitment to further its sustainability efforts for the benefit of our planet. I’d say that’s pretty… Off The Wall.
Danny Theriault 