As an inaugural signatory to the Fashion Pact, BESTSELLER is committed to restoring biodiversity. By limiting – or even counteracting – the rate of extinction, we are contributing to a more balanced natural environment. There is a deep connection between climate change and nature loss. We cannot contain global warming without addressing nature loss and we cannot reverse nature loss without a stable climate.
For example, we can support biodiversity and healthy ecosystems by sourcing more branded and certified cotton and man-made cellulosics (MMC) as these materials are proven to have less environmental impact on the climate, when compared to conventional materials of the same category. Examples of this could be the preservation of water resources, using renewable energy and safer chemicals during production.
Chemical management and waste water management are key priorities in the environmental programmes we run with our supply chain partners. These programmes help protect waterways and soil in the areas where our clothes are produced, which is integral to the health of local wildlife, agriculture and communities.
Additionally, through a number of multistakeholder organisations, we seek to improve our understanding and abilities to protect biodiversity.
For example, we are a member of the Corporate Engagement Programme (CEP) of the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN). As part of the CEP, we are contributing to the creation of guidance, methods and tools that are cost-effective, practical, and user-friendly and to promote the business case for setting science-based targets. The CEP is an important resource when we increase our biodiversity work, as it allows us to learn from what other stakeholders are already doing.
In order to better understand the impact of our products on biodiversity, we have started an assessment of our viscose and cotton supply chains. These assessments will serve as the basis for further developing our biodiversity strategy that will highlight which areas in our supply chain should be prioritised to prevent loss or degradation of natural ecosystems, as well as how we can support nature restoration.
