Iconic French sportswear brand Lacoste is making significant strides in promoting sustainability across its operations, demonstrating a growing commitment to environmental responsibility and a circular economy. Through a range of initiatives, the company is addressing various aspects of its impact, from raw material sourcing to product end-of-life.
A key pillar of Lacoste’s sustainability strategy, dubbed “Durable Elegance,” involves a conscious effort to utilize more sustainable raw materials. The brand is prioritizing organic cotton and recycled polyester in its textile collections, aiming for 90% preferred raw materials by 2026. This shift reduces the reliance on conventional farming practices that can have significant environmental footprints. Furthermore, Lacoste is actively exploring and incorporating recycled cotton derived from production scraps and even end-of-life garments, exemplified by their innovative “Loop Polo,” made with 30% recycled cotton.
Beyond material innovation, Lacoste is focusing on extending the lifespan of its products. Recognizing the environmental benefits of durability, the brand emphasizes quality and timeless design. Additionally, they are exploring second-life solutions for unsold products and textile waste, aiming to give 100% of textile waste from their tier 1 suppliers a second life by 2025. This commitment to circularity is further strengthened by their partnership with the Ellen MacArthur Foundation’s “Make Fashion Circular” initiative.
Lacoste is also diligently working to reduce its carbon footprint across its entire value chain. They have set ambitious targets aligned with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), including a 47% absolute reduction in direct greenhouse gas emissions per product sold by 2030. This involves transitioning to 100% renewable energy for Lacoste-operated sites by 2030 and engaging with their key suppliers to reduce their carbon emissions and phase out coal.
Water conservation and the elimination of hazardous chemicals are other crucial aspects of Lacoste’s environmental strategy. Transparency and traceability within the supply chain are also paramount. Lacoste has partnered with Oritain, a leader in forensic verification of origin, to ensure the traceability of their cotton and guarantee ethical sourcing practices.
Through these multifaceted initiatives, Lacoste is demonstrating a genuine commitment to integrating sustainability into the core of its business. While the journey towards a fully sustainable fashion industry is ongoing, Lacoste’s proactive approach and concrete targets signal a positive shift within the apparel sector.
