Under Armour, a renowned brand in the world of sportswear, has been making strides towards sustainability, but there's still a long way to go. This blog post will delve into the various aspects of Under Armour's sustainability efforts, from CO2 emissions and labor practices to renewable energy sources and waste management.
CO2 Emissions and Renewable Energy
Under Armour's CO2 intensity, a measure of greenhouse gas emissions in relation to the company's revenue or employees, is a key indicator of their carbon footprint and commitment to reducing emissions. The company has also committed to using renewable energy sources, with 15% of its energy consumption currently coming from renewable sources. In 2021, Under Armour set an ambitious goal to achieve 100% renewable energy usage by 2030. They are working towards this by installing solar panels on their facilities, using energy-efficient lighting and appliances, investing in energy-saving technologies, and promoting employee engagement in sustainability initiatives.
Labor Practices
Under Armour's commitment to ethical labor practices has room for improvement. The company lacks a public commitment, an action plan, and separate labor costs. There is also a lack of concrete evidence of fair wages across its supply chain, although signs indicate that the brand is aware and steps are being taken to address the issue.
Warranty and Second-hand Support
Under Armour offers a limited warranty on most of its products, covering defects in materials and workmanship for a period of one year from the date of purchase. However, the company does not currently offer any direct support for second-hand services or thrift stores. They do have a recycling program that allows customers to return used Under Armour products to any Under Armour store or authorized retailer. These products are then recycled or donated to charity.
Transparency and Eco-friendly Initiatives
Under Armour's Fashion Transparency Index score is 21.9, which assesses brands' transparency regarding their social and environmental policies. The company also supports a number of environmental organizations, including the Conservation Alliance and the National Park Foundation, by donating money and providing employees with opportunities to volunteer their time.
Sustainable Materials and Waste Management
Under Armour is making efforts to use sustainable materials. As of the end of 2021, approximately 40% of the fabrics used in Under Armour’s apparel and accessories were made from materials capable of being recycled. However, the company's waste management practices need improvement, with only 15% of waste being recycled and 85% being sent to landfills or incinerated.
Under Armour sustainability conclusions
In conclusion, while Under Armour is making progress in some areas of sustainability, there are still significant areas for improvement. The company's commitment to achieving 100% renewable energy usage by 2030 is commendable, but more needs to be done in terms of labor practices, waste management, and transparency. As consumers, it's important for us to continue to hold brands accountable for their sustainability efforts and push for more sustainable practices in the fashion industry.
Read the full report here.