3 Ways to Implement Sustainable Practices in 2021
Sustainability is an increasingly important concern for consumers and many are actively seeking out companies that align with their own values around the environment. And when it comes to fashion, the concern is particularly acute.
Business Insider reports that 6 billion pounds of textiles end up in landfills each year – stark facts that are leading to more and more shoppers to change their buying habits. How so? A report in 2019 by Hotwire found that 47% of online shoppers across the world had stopped buying from brands that went against their personal values, and the environment was top of that list.
But what steps can you start to think about implementing as a retailer? Let’s take a look at three ways you can introduce sustainable practises in 2021.
1. Set yourself achievable goals with a sustainability programme
While it may not be possible to make every part of your supply chain sustainable, set realistic goals in an official sustainability programme. For example, if you plan to use only recycled packaging by 2023, communicate this to your customers and make sure you can deliver on your promises. In the meantime, tell customers which elements of your existing packaging can be recycled so that they feel you are doing as much as you can.
You should also consider re-assessing your current packaging and removing any unnecessary cardboard and plastic - looking to minimise waste wherever possible. This includes switching to recycled shipping boxes, environmentally-friendly fillers, and cutting back on paper use. Nothing makes a conscious customer feel more guilty than an order arriving in excessive packaging, and it may lead to them bypassing you as a brand completely.
2. Add sustainable lines and fabrics to your product offering
UK consumer insights expert Martin Newman explains that sustainability is particularly important for the younger generation who expect it as standard. “Gen Z expects brands to enable them to take action by offering sustainable clothing, thrifting, and second-hand items,” says Martin. For example, consider adding upcycled second-hand pieces to your clothing range and call out the use of sustainable fabrics wherever possible. This allows consumers to make considered purchases.
A great example of this in action is Clearpay retailer, Rixo – a premium womenswear brand based in the UK. While their main collection isn’t sustainable, next year they plan to release the Rixo Recycle Collection. Each piece in the range will be made from 100% upcycled fabric that’s sourced in India and would otherwise have gone to waste. It’s a shrewd move that is not only better for the environment but an active step in answering consumer needs.
3. Gain third-party certification
Making smaller changes is a step in the right direction but there’s nothing like demonstrating your commitment to sustainability by earning third-party certification. These kinds of certificates help to grow consumer loyalty and ultimately earn their trust. Beauty retailers should look at those such as the British Allergy Foundation Seal of Approval, and The Soil Association that certify that all processes and ingredients are ethical and sustainable, while certifications such as Blue Angel show the products or services offered focus on one of four different protection goals: health, climate, water, and resources.
Additionally, The Good Shopping Guide informs customers of those brands that aim to help people make informed decisions about which brands are best for the planet, best for animals and best for people across the world. For example, sustainable fashion brand People Tree, available on Clearpay retailer ASOS, scores a top rating of 96 on The Good Shopping Guide’s ethical company index score.
Find out how Clearpay can help drive your business forward in 2020 by scheduling a meeting with one of our Retailer Team Members today at sales@clearpay.com.
