Burberry, a prominent luxury brand, has recently garnered recognition for its sustainability initiatives, earning the top spot in the 2018 Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI). This accolade is a testament to Burberry’s ongoing commitment to driving positive change and making substantial progress towards its responsibility goals for 2022.
Despite facing criticism for destroying nearly £30 million worth of products, Burberry has remained steadfast in its dedication to sustainability. The DJSI evaluates companies based on economic, environmental, and social criteria, underscoring Burberry’s impressive performance in the ‘Textiles, Apparel & Luxury Goods’ sector for the fourth consecutive year. This achievement is particularly significant for socially-conscious investors who prioritize sustainability in their investment decisions.
In addition to its inclusion in the DJSI, Burberry is actively engaged in various other ethical and sustainable initiatives. The brand unveiled its new responsibility agenda, ‘Creating Tomorrow’s Heritage,’ which focuses on revaluing waste, striving for carbon-neutrality in operations, and partnering with sustainable luxury company Elvis & Kresse to upcycle leather offcuts into innovative new products.
Burberry’s dedication to driving positive change extends across its supply chain, with a commitment to ensuring that 100% of its products contribute to social and environmental improvements. The brand actively supports communities that sustain its business, collaborating with organizations like Oxfam and Pur Projet in Afghanistan to promote a more inclusive and sustainable cashmere industry.
Despite facing backlash for its handling of unsold products, Burberry has taken significant strides towards sustainability by announcing the cessation of fur usage in its collections. Leanne Wood, Burberry’s Chief People, Strategy, and Corporate Affairs Officer, has expressed pride in the brand’s sustainability achievements and underscored their unwavering commitment to social and environmental responsibility.
As Burberry continues to expand its sustainability efforts, the brand remains focused on surpassing its responsibility goals well beyond 2022, solidifying its position as a leader in sustainable luxury.
Learn more about Burberry’s sustainability efforts on their official website or explore sustainable luxury options at Business of Fashion.
