The LYCRA Company, renowned for its fiber and technology solutions in the apparel and personal care sectors, has announced that its near-term greenhouse gas (GHG) emission reduction targets have been validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). The company’s goals align with the 1.5°C global warming trajectory, reflecting its commitment to sustainable practices. These targets encompass reductions across Scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions, marking a significant step in the industry where many companies struggle with Scope 3 targets.
Other news sources have reported on the growing trend among textile companies to abandon or scale back their Scope 3 targets due to challenges in achieving them. In contrast, The LYCRA Company has not only maintained but also set ambitious Scope 3 targets, aiming for a 25% reduction in GHG emissions from purchased goods and services by 2030. This approach distinguishes LYCRA from its peers and underscores its proactive stance on sustainability.
The company’s historical shift to sustainable products in recent years also provides context for its current initiatives. While initially created to address resource shortages during World War II, LYCRA has evolved to incorporate renewable and recycled ingredients, boosting circularity and reducing waste. This evolution has laid the groundwork for its current sustainability targets, highlighting a consistent trajectory towards environmental responsibility.
Ambitious Scope 3 Targets
The LYCRA Company aims to reduce absolute GHG emissions from purchased goods by 25% by 2030. With many textile companies dropping such targets for being too challenging, LYCRA’s commitment sets it apart. Additionally, the company plans to cut Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 50% from a 2021 baseline, underscoring its comprehensive approach to reducing its environmental footprint.
“We are committed to making positive change in our industry and have set ambitious emission targets because we believe it’s essential for business success, but more importantly, it’s the right thing to do. By making these changes, we can help reduce not only our emissions but those of our customers as well.”
Transitioning to Cleaner Energy
The LYCRA Company is actively working to meet its Scope 1 target by switching to low-impact energy sources at its production sites. For instance, its facility in Maydown, Northern Ireland, is being converted to use cleaner fuels. For Scope 2 reductions, the company is transitioning purchased electricity to renewable sources through Energy Attribute Certificates, with sites in China and Ireland already converted and more to follow.
To tackle Scope 3 emissions, LYCRA collaborates with ingredient suppliers to adopt lower-impact inputs. Within the next few years, nearly 30% of its spandex capacity will be converted to bio-derived LYCRA fiber. This multi-faceted approach demonstrates the company’s commitment to sustainability across its entire supply chain, aligning with global climate goals.
“This has been a two-year effort to identify and select the best options for our business and create a road map for carbon reduction. That plan includes changes to our processes, products, and key ingredients, as well as securing buy-in from internal and external stakeholders.”
The LYCRA Company’s comprehensive GHG reduction strategy highlights its dedication to sustainability amid broader industry challenges. By maintaining ambitious Scope 3 targets and implementing substantial changes at its production sites, LYCRA sets a benchmark for other companies. The company’s history of innovation and adaptation, from addressing resource shortages during WWII to pioneering sustainable fibers, supports its current efforts and provides valuable insights into the importance of integrating sustainability into business operations. LYCRA’s clear and measurable goals could serve as a model for others in the industry, fostering greater environmental responsibility.
