As consumers, we are becoming increasingly aware of the impact our purchases have on the environment. We want to know that the companies we buy from are taking steps to reduce their carbon footprint and are committed to sustainable practices.
One brand that has been on our radar lately and that has been featured in many of our selections and comparisons is Arc’teryx.
Arc’teryx is a Canadian outdoor clothing and equipment company known for its high-quality products and innovative designs.
But as we become more environmentally conscious, we can’t help but wonder: Is Arc’teryx sustainable? That’s the question we’ll be trying to answer in today’s article!
Through our research, we will explore Arc’teryx’s sustainability practices and initiatives. We will look at their materials sourcing, manufacturing processes, and environmental impact.
By the end of this article, we hope to have a better understanding of whether Arc’teryx is truly committed to sustainability and what it’s doing to reduce its impact on the planet.
Let’s begin!
Contents:
- 1. The Importance of Sustainability in the Outdoor Industry
- 2. Arc’teryx’s Sustainability Efforts
- 3. Product Examples
- 4. Manufacturing Facility Reporting
- 5. Can Arc’teryx Improve its Sustainability Efforts?
- 6. Conclusion
1. The Importance of Sustainability in the Outdoor Industry
As outdoor enthusiasts, we are passionate about exploring the natural world and preserving it for future generations. That’s why sustainability is so important in our opinion.
Besides, what’s more beautiful than a natural environment without any external human intervention?
Unfortunately, the outdoor industry has not always been the most environmentally friendly. From harmful chemicals in clothing like PFCs to wasteful packaging, our gear and apparel can have a significant impact on the planet.
Thankfully, many companies are starting to take sustainability seriously. By using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and investing in renewable energy, these brands are helping to protect the environment and preserve the outdoor spaces we love.
Brands like these include Patagonia, Columbia Sportswear, The North Face, Keen Footwear, and as we’ll see, Arc’teryx.
Arc’teryx is at the forefront of the sustainability movement. They have made a commitment to sustainability that goes beyond just reducing their environmental impact. They are actively working to create positive change in the industry and inspire others to do the same.
This kind of leadership is essential if we want to create a more sustainable future for the outdoor industry.
Read also: Why is Arc’teryx so Expensive? Are Their Jackets Worth the Price?
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2. Arc’teryx’s Sustainability Efforts
At Arc’teryx, they are committed to reducing their environmental impact and promoting social responsibility by adopting long-term thinking when it comes to product manufacturing.
In this section, we will discuss Arc’teryx’s efforts in materials and production, environmental impact, and social responsibility.
Materials and Production
The brand’s commitment to sustainability starts with the materials they use. They strive to use sustainable materials whenever possible, such as recycled polyester and organic cotton. They also work with suppliers who share the same values and are committed to sustainable practices.
In addition, they are constantly looking for ways to reduce waste and minimize their environmental impact in the production processes. They have implemented a number of initiatives, such as:
- Reducing water usage in manufacturing processes;
- Recycling and reusing materials whenever possible;
- Implementing energy-efficient practices in their facilities;
- Introducing the first products made with a PFC-free GORE-TEX ePE membrane;
- Adopting the Bluesign® system Restricted Substances List (RSL) that includes a selection of materials that must be used carefully as they can have a negative impact on the environment.
Environmental Impact
Almost all human activities can have an impact on the environment, and at Arc’teryx they are committed to minimizing that impact. Some of their initiatives include:
- Using 100% renewable energy for their owned operations by the end of 2020;
- Put in practice renewable energy projects with their partners in their supply chain;
- Reducing their carbon emissions related to Arc’teryx’s headquarters, Canadian production facility, global retail stores, distribution centers, etc.;
- Promoting their Arc’teryx ReGEAR program which accepts used Arc’teyx gear that’s still in good condition, repairs it as needed, and resells it online, putting it again in circulation and extending its active life.
Social Responsibility
Social responsibility is just as important as environmental responsibility. Arc’teryx is committed to treating its employees, suppliers, and customers with respect and fairness, and they strive to make a positive impact in the communities where they operate.
Some of Arc’teryx’s initiatives to promote social responsibility include:
- Ensuring fair labor practices in their supply chain;
- Partnering with organizations to support local communities and promote the protection of the outdoors;
- Promote finding inspiration in nature.
3. Product Examples
Let’s now take a look at some Arc’teryx products that use recycled and sustainable materials and processes:
Men’s Cerium Hoody
Image from arcteryx.com
Check it out at arcteryx.com
This light and warm down hoody uses recycled nylon and responsibly sourced 850 fill-power down. It’s great for hiking, alpine climbing, skiing, and for use in the city.
Women’s Atom Hoody
Image from arcteryx.com
Check it out at arcteryx.com
The women’s Atom hoody is a versatile jacket with synthetic Coreloft Compact insulation, great for trekking, climbing, or casual wear. The jacket is made using dope dye which reduces CO2 emissions and saves water.
4. Manufacturing Facility Reporting
While doing research for the previous section (Product Examples), we came across an interesting report in the product description. Few outdoor brands do this at the moment, and it’s a great way to improve production transparency.
We are talking about the reporting of the manufacturing facility where the product was made, as you can see in the image below.
It’s reported the name of the company that manages the facility and the country where it’s based. If you click on the link, it takes you to a page with various data and information about that company.
This data is not reported for all products but it seems Arc’teryx is moving in the right direction.
Image: Arc’teryx Manufacturing Facility Reporting
5. Can Arc’teryx Improve its Sustainability Efforts?
Yes, Arc’teryx jackets and outdoor gear are among the most durable in the market. They can last you for 10+ years as many of their customers can attest. This is an important point to combat fast fashion and reduce waste.
Arc’teryx has also begun keeping track of its emissions since 2018 and publishing a yearly Climate Report that highlights its sustainability efforts and future targets to reach.
What they can improve on in our opinion, is educating more people about the importance of keeping the outdoors clean and leaving them just as we found them. They have many community events like this, but we believe the more the better.
This can be done both online and offline with specific programs, articles, tutorials on how to care for your outdoor gear (like Fjällräven does for example), etc.
Because educated customers can make smart choices in the best interest of our natural environment.
Don’t miss: 8 Quality Brands like Arc’teryx: Our Top Picks
6. Conclusion
After conducting extensive research on Arc’teryx’s sustainability efforts, we have come to the conclusion that the company is making commendable progress toward becoming more environmentally responsible.
From their use of recycled materials to their commitment to reducing their carbon footprint to transparent reporting, Arc’teryx is taking steps to minimize their impact on the environment.
However, there is always room for improvement, and we would like to see the company continue to innovate and implement more sustainable practices.
Overall, we believe that Arc’teryx is a responsible and ethical company that is dedicated to making positive changes in the outdoor industry.
By supporting them, we can help encourage other companies to follow in their footsteps and prioritize sustainability.
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Read next: Arc’teryx vs The North Face: Which Brand is Better?
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