Staff Writer
PUMA has introduced Vision 2030, a comprehensive sustainability plan that targets bold improvements in climate action, circularity, and human rights. Building on its successful 10FOR25 framework, the sportswear giant aims to tackle environmental challenges, enhance ethical practices, and redefine industry standards.
Ambitious Climate Commitments
PUMA is dedicated to achieving a 90% reduction in Scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2030, with a 33% reduction target for Scope 3 emissions within its supply chain. These goals are benchmarked against a 2017 baseline and align with scientific recommendations to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius.
Key climate initiatives include:
- Renewable Energy: PUMA is increasing renewable energy usage across its operations and aims for 25% renewable energy adoption by core suppliers by 2025.
- Carbon Reduction in 2023: The company reduced its emissions by 24% compared to 2022 through renewable electricity, electric vehicles, and low-carbon shipping options.
- Scope 3 Focus: The supply chain remains critical, and investments in low-carbon materials and partnerships are being made to reduce logistics-related emissions.
Circularity: Innovating for a Sustainable Future
PUMA is making significant strides in reducing waste and extending product lifespans:
- Recycled Materials: By 2030, all polyester used in apparel will be recycled, with 30% being fiber-to-fiber recycled. Additionally, 20% of cotton fabrics will be sourced from recycled materials.
- Breakthrough Products: Initiatives like RE, which repurposes textile waste into new products, and RE, a compostable sneaker set for release in 2024, highlight PUMA’s focus on innovation.
- 2023 Progress: Eight out of ten PUMA products were made with recycled or certified materials, and new take-back programs were launched to promote recycling.
Human Rights and Ethical Practices
PUMA is addressing labor rights and workplace equity in its global supply chain:
- Worker Training: By 2030, the company will train 400,000 workers on human rights and equitable practices. In 2023 alone, over 220,000 workers received training.
- Gender Pay Gap: PUMA is committed to closing the gender pay gap across its operations and supply chain to ensure equitable wages at core supplier factories.
- Community Impact: In 2023, employees donated 57,000 hours to community engagement efforts, supporting initiatives focused on education, empowerment, and environmental conservation.
Navigating Challenges
Despite its progress, PUMA has faced scrutiny over ethical and environmental concerns:
- Forced Labor Allegations: Reports linked PUMA to forced labor practices in Xinjiang, China, raising questions about supply chain transparency.
- Investor Divestment: ASN Impact Investors withdrew $74 million from PUMA in 2024, citing insufficient sustainability progress.
- Environmental Critiques: The company’s reliance on synthetic fibers has drawn attention to its dependence on oil-based materials, pushing PUMA to shift to recycled alternatives.
The Road Ahead
PUMA’s Vision 2030 outlines clear and ambitious goals to address climate change, promote circularity, and improve human rights in its supply chain. The company aims to lead the sportswear industry toward a more sustainable future by focusing on renewable energy, innovative materials, and ethical practices.
