European fashion online platform, Zalando has committed to zero carbon deliveries and returns from this week. This includes self-operated properties, parcel transportation and packaging. The pledge is part of Zalando’s new sustainability strategy, “do.MORE,” which aims for a net-positive impact for people and the planet.
With this, Zalando will meet the goals of the Paris climate agreement for its own operations ahead of the agreement’s schedule. In 2019, the company switched to over 90% renewable energy across all locations. Carbon emissions that are not eliminated by operational improvements, such as renewable energy, order bundling or green delivery options, are offset.
By 2023, Zalando designs its packaging to minimise waste and keep materials in use, specifically eliminating single-use plastics. Already, Zalando boxes are made from 100% recycled materials, shipping bags from 80% recycled plastics and beauty bags switched to 100% recycled paper.
Co-CEO Rubin Ritter says: “The fashion industry is facing sustainability challenges and we know we have been part of the problem. Going forward, our aspiration is to be part of the solution. We see a clear link between acting sustainably and continued commercial success. Only those who incorporate sustainability into their business strategy will stay relevant for their customers and we believe that it will be a competitive advantage in the future.”
