04 CHEMICALS
DOING MORE WITH LESS.
In the textile world, chemicals are a necessary part of the production chain. Used to dye and treat fabrics to make them resist the elements better, many of them do so by causing harm to the environment itself. To prevent hazardous chemicals from entering our production process, we have created a Restricted Substance List, designed in accordance with legislation such as REACH (European Union chemical legislation) and other industry standards. The list prohibits the use of dangerous and unnecessary chemicals in the production of Craft garments, and is mandatory for all our suppliers to follow.
- Anni Sandgren, CSR and Sustainability Manager, New Wave Group
KPIs
"Our products should let people experience nature without harming it."
Our goal is that every garment should live up to the demands specified in the OEKO-TEX Standard 100 product class 2 by 2023. Today, roughly half of our garments meet the specifications of the product class, which regulates chemical use for products that come into contact with skin. To ensure that our suppliers live up to our standards, we regularly test our products for traces of restricted chemicals. In addition, we also demand that our suppliers use chemicals in closed loop systems designed to prevent hazardous leaks and contamination of the surrounding ecosystem, which we check by onsite inspections at production facilities.
Even though some substances are allowed by law, they may still carry unwanted effects on the environment. To keep track of the chemical’s real-world effects, we actively share knowledge and findings with the RISE Chemical Group, a network of companies, scientists and government agencies. What’s more, we also work together with our suppliers to find new compounds and alternative production methods. A good example of the latter is spin-dye techniques, where the color pigment is added to the polyester fiber early in the process instead of dyeing a finished garment. A technique that reduces the need for coloring agents by up to 75%.
Even though some substances are allowed by law, they may still carry unwanted effects on the environment. To keep track of the chemical’s real-world effects, we actively share knowledge and findings with the RISE Chemical Group, a network of companies, scientists and government agencies. What’s more, we also work together with our suppliers to find new compounds and alternative production methods. A good example of the latter is spin-dye techniques, where the color pigment is added to the polyester fiber early in the process instead of dyeing a finished garment. A technique that reduces the need for coloring agents by up to 75%.
