PROTACT 2024
the ortovox sustainability strategy
ProtACT2024 is our next step towards more sustainability. Based upon our core values, protACT2024 combines existing initiatives with binding goals, which will be implemented by 2024.
ortovox Protects...
ORTOVOX PROTECTS SHEEP
Animal protection – in particular the welfare of sheep – determines our actions as wool experts. In 2017, we used this as a basis for developing its own wool standard. All the merino wool we source from Tasmania is currently fully verified with the OWP.
GOAL: 100 % OWP-VERIFIED WOOL
The goal is to further strengthen the ORTOVOX WOOL PROMISE by 2024. As part of this, SWISSWOOL, the traditional wool from the Swiss Alps used primarily as insulation material, will also be included in the OWP. Integration is planned for 2021/2022. Furthermore, we have set ourselves the goal of demonstrating transparency in all processes and procurement steps.
ORTOVOX PROTECTS PEOPLE
The fair treatment of employees, customers and business partners is our highest priority. We have been a member of the PARTNERSHIP FOR SUSTAINABLE TEXTILES initiative and the FAIR WEAR FOUNDATION (FWF) since 2015.
Our commitment to fair working conditions was rewarded once again in 2019 when it received FAIR WEAR FOUNDATION LEADERSHIP STATUS – the FWF’s highest accolade. Since 2018 we maintain the status.
GOAL: MAINTAINING FWF LEADER STATUS
We have set ourselves the goal of maintaining LEADER STATUS within the FAIR WEAR FOUNDATION. The status of the FWF is reviewed annually and as such calls for a process of continuous improvement. In concrete terms, this means we are committed to continually making production planning more efficient and socially acceptable. The status also includes payment of a living wage in a safe, healthy working environment. For example, as part of the roadmap of the PARTNERSHIP FOR SUSTAINABLE TEXTILES, We are also committed to improving chemical and environmental management among all manufacturers.
ORTOVOX PROTECTS REGIONAL UNIQUENESS
We use and nurture natural resources and traditional expertise from around the globe, and have also relied upon local raw materials and regional craftsmanship since our early days. Our textile production chain currently comprises 45 companies in 13 countries, and 59.55% of all textile products are made in Europe.
GOAL: 60% OF PRODUCTION IN EUROPE
We aim to continue manufacturing at least 60% of our production volume in Europe. By working closely with local stakeholders, we are also committed to supporting special activities at international locations.
ORTOVOX PROTECTS THE MOUNTAINS
Protection of the environment is part of our self-image and influences the company’s actions. Our declared goal is to achieve climate neutrality at all company sites and for all products. Initially this means accurately measuring the carbon footprint, then developing a strategy to reduce this to a minimum and offset the remainder.
GOAL: CLIMATE NEUTRALITY
We will measure our carbon footprint – taking into account energy, water, heat and paper consumption, the commutes that our employees make to and from work and the production of climate-neutral products – before drawing up and implementing measures to maximize its reduction. Unavoidable CO2 emissions will ultimately be offset by compensatory measures. We will therefore be completely climate-neutral by 2024.
ORTOVOX PROTECTS YOU
ORTOVOX products protect athletes by means of reliable functionality and the high quality of materials. The products facilitate rapid, life-saving action in emergency situations and guarantee protection against the adversities of nature. For the brand, this safety focus also means ensuring that all suppliers fulfil their promises with regard to aspects of chemical management and work together to improve standards on an ongoing basis.
goal: 100 % PFC-free
As a member of ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) – an association of textile and shoe manufacturers with the common goal of eliminating pollutants from production processes – this includes the Manufacturing Restricted Substances List (MRSL) and the Restricted Substances List (RSL) of the stringent bluesign® standard.
Furthermore, we have set ourselves the goal of offering a completely PFC-free range by 2024. Efforts will initially focus upon backpacks and SWISSWOOL products, followed by softshell products, until finally hardshell products are also produced free from PFC.
ORTOVOX PROTECTS USING SUSTAINABLE INNOVATION
Our passion for the mountains drives us to take new paths when designing functional and sustainable products and processes. When it comes to technical innovation, we have been one of the outdoor industry’s leading brands since our foundation in 1980. From the outset, the issue of durability has also been a decisive factor in the development of our products. This approach will now be strengthened through our Second Life efforts and initiatives.
goal: MOUNTAIN SECOND LIFE
Durability and reparability have a significant influence upon the sustainability of a product and are, therefore, of particular importance to us. Our Second Life strategy focuses upon the best possible use and care of our products, further optimization of reparability and the development of solutions that will facilitate and simplify the recycling of used products.