The commitment includes engagement with the whole supply chain to ensure “zero discharges of all hazardous chemicals from the whole lifecycle and all production procedures that are associated with the making and using of all products Burberry Group Plc produces and/or sells” according to the company’s new policy.

It also sets out greater transparency on both usage and progress against identified targets. The company has committed to full public disclose of the discharges of hazardous chemicals (beginning with 11 identified priority groups) by June this year.

The announcement, which is part of Burberry’s on-going programme to reducing the environmental impact of its supply chain, follows a protest campaign from Greenpeace volunteers, both on social media, and in stores across the world.

Commenting on the news, Greenpeace International Detox campaigner Ilze Smit said: “Burberry’s commitment to rid us of these hazardous little monsters opens a new chapter in the story of toxic-free fashion. In taking this landmark step, Burberry has listened to its customers’ demands, joining the ranks of brands acting on behalf of parents everywhere to give this toxic nightmare the happy ending it deserves.

“Burberry’s move raises the bar for the luxury sector. With the Fashion Weeks coming up, brands like Gucci, Versace and Louis Vuitton risk getting left behind. From budget to luxury, people have a right to demand our clothes are free from hazardous chemicals and big brands have a responsibility to do something about it.”

Burberry’s full commitment can be read here.

edie staff

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