Sustainable outdoor kidswear brand, Isbjörn of Sweden, has outlined an ambitious sustainability pledge, including net zero targets, going completely microplastic-free, and becoming a fully circular brand.
Isbjörn’s DNA has always been to make premium, fit-for-purpose outerwear for children and teenagers. It was also the first outdoor kids’ brand to become a bluesign® system partner. Protecting both children and the planet has been at the company’s forefront for nearly 20 years. The Isbjörn team also recognises the fashion industry is a major contributor to the rise in greenhouse gases. It is therefore determined to take a bigger responsibility to reduce CO2 emissions.
Isbjörn aims to reduce emissions by at least 50% by 2033 and become a net zero company by 2045.
To achieve this, Isbjörn has launched a roadmap with a set of pledges and goals. The aim is to ensure it goes a step further to protect the planet and do its bit to limit the global temperature rise to 1.5 degrees Celsius by 2050, as per the UN’s objective.
Commenting is Selma Jakobsson, Production and Sustainability Manager at Isbjörn. “We want to leave a healthy planet for future generations of kids. We want them to be able to explore rich forests and see icebergs, and this is why we’re taking an even bigger responsibility, setting bold yet achievable targets to become a net zero company. Isbjörn will publish yearly measured reports and be completely transparent as we progress in our journey, aiming to reduce carbon emissions by at least 4.2% each year to achieve our 2033 goal.”
Isbjörn’s roadmap to becoming net zero includes becoming fully circular by 2030, with all materials being 100% recycled or biodegradable.
Customers will also be able to return worn garments for resale or recycling, fully closing the loop. Going microplastic-free is high on the agenda too. Plans are already in place to phase out the use of virgin microplastics completely by 2026.
Jakobsson continues; “To achieve our reduction goals, we need to be fully circular – using sustainable materials to produce long-lasting and durable products, working with renewable energy, and continuing to support FSC-certified responsible and sustainable forestry.”
Isbjörn’s roadmap to becoming net zero includes:
- Renewable Energy
Isbjörn has already started to switch to using renewable energy sources across its suppliers, manufacturers and warehousing, as well as at its headquarters in Stockholm. - Logistics
Source local materials and use train transportation wherever possible and avoid air shipment. - Circular Business
Use only recycled or biodegradable materials and prolong the lifecycle of Isbjörn’s garments on the second-hand market. - Upcycling
Reducing waste and reusing to make products. The first product made from waste material will be available from a/w 22. - Invest in Nature
Promote healthy forestry to reduce CO2 emissions and protect the ecosystem and wildlife. - Annual Reporting
Publish a yearly emissions report for complete transparency, with results verified by an independent agency.
“Sustainability work has always been the DNA of Isbjörn,” concludes Jakobsson. “With our new roadmap, we can deliver a positive impact for future generations of outdoor enthusiasts.”
For further information on Isbjörn of Sweden, please click here.
