Isbjörn Takes The Train To Reduce Environmental Drain

11/07/2019

Isbjörn takes the train to reduce environmental drain

From a/w 19, sustainable children’s outdoor clothing and accessories brand Isbjörn of Sweden will switch its freight from sea, and occasionally air, to train.

The development is part of the brand’s Green @Heart heritage, which sees it continually strive to be as sustainable as possible in all parts of its business.

From a/w 19, therefore, Isbjörn will use the train to transport its range; taking it from the bluesign® approved factories it works with in northeast China, to Sweden.

Switching to train freight means a journey time of just four weeks – it previously took two months by boat.

It also puts an end to last-minute air freighting should any unforeseen delays arise. Airfreight actually accounted for 69% of the carbon dioxide released in transporting Isbjörn products during 2018. This figure could be 16 times smaller by train.

Moving away from sea freight will also reduce diesel pollution. Plus, uncontrollable factors such as strikes by port workers, as well as increasing overall safety.

Another issue is moisture; the cargo hold on a boat can get very hot, which can affect the quality of a garment even before it arrives at its destination.

Subsequently, Isbjörn is changing from silicone to the non-toxic and environmentally-safer Absortech to protect future ranges during transportation.

Commenting is Maria Frykman Forsberg, CEO of Isbjörn of Sweden. “For more than 15 years we have endeavoured to be as sustainable as we possibly can. With China investing significantly in its rail infrastructure, we can now use a much more climate-smarter mode of transport from China to Sweden.

“We will use rail as far as Finland and then the rest of the journey to Sweden will be by road and electric trucks where possible. Reducing, recycling, repairing and reusing are at the heart of everything Isbjörn stands for.

“Our latest transport change coincides perfectly with the launch of our Green @Heart symbol on hangtags and merchandise. Our Green Promise to empower and equip future generations will continue as we do all we can to protect the outdoor playground of young adventurers.”