PUMA's sustainable edge: Boosting profits, cutting emissions
In a remarkable stride towards environmental stewardship, PUMA has demonstrated a commendable reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, cutting them by 24% in 2023. This achievement comes at a time when the renowned sports company has also reported significant sales growth, underscoring its commitment to sustainability without compromising on its commercial success.
Renewable energy: Game changer
A pivotal factor in PUMA's sustainability success story is the doubled use of renewable energy by its core suppliers. This leap in green energy adoption has played a crucial role in diminishing the company's overall GHG emissions.
Key sustainability measures
PUMA's sustainability efforts are multifaceted, involving strategic changes across its operations, products, and partnerships:
Material innovation: The company has significantly increased the use of materials that are less carbon-intensive, thereby reducing the environmental footprint of its product range.
Partnership with Maersk: PUMA has collaborated with its logistics partner, Maersk, to introduce low carbon shipment tariffs. This initiative is aimed at greening the company's "most important" sea freight routes, particularly between Asia and Europe.
Renewable energy: PUMA has committed to sourcing 100% renewable electricity for its own offices, stores, and warehouses, either through renewable electricity tariffs or renewable energy attribute certificates.
Electric vehicle investment: The company is also transitioning its car fleet to electric vehicles, further supporting its carbon reduction goals.
Circular economy and material recycling
Anne-Laure Descours, PUMA's Chief Sourcing Officer, expressed pride in the company's sustainability achievements in 2023, emphasizing not only GHG reduction but also advances in circularity and recycling:
Expansion of take-back programs: PUMA has extended its product take-back programs to three new countries, enhancing its circular economy efforts.
Recycled polyester use: Almost 65% of the polyester used in PUMA’s apparel and accessories now comes from recycled materials, significantly reducing the demand for virgin materials.
Achieving science-based targets
PUMA's 2023 sustainability report heralds the achievement of its science-based GHG reduction target seven years ahead of schedule, with an 85% reduction in its own emissions and a 65% reduction in supply chain emissions relative to sales. Looking ahead, PUMA has set ambitious goals for 2030:
Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions: PUMA aims to reduce its absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 90% from a 2017 baseline.
Scope 3 GHG emissions: The company commits to a 33% reduction in absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions from its supply chain and logistics compared to 2017.
PUMA's journey towards sustainability is a testament to the company's innovative approach to reducing its environmental impact while continuing to grow its business. By investing in renewable energy, adopting low-carbon materials and logistics solutions, and embracing circular economy principles, PUMA is setting a benchmark for sustainability in the sports industry.
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