Summary
H&M Group demonstrates a strong commitment to sustainability across various categories, with notable progress in material sourcing, emissions reduction, and transparency. While they have set ambitious goals and achieved significant milestones, there are areas, such as ethical labor practices and animal welfare, where more detailed information and transparency would further strengthen their sustainability profile.
Categories
10 total
H&M Group demonstrates a strong commitment to transparency by publishing comprehensive annual sustainability reports detailing their progress and challenges. They disclose information on material sourcing, supply chain practices, and environmental impact, aligning with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS).
In 2023, 85% of the materials used in H&M Group's products were recycled or sustainably sourced, with a goal to reach 100% by 2030. They are also focusing on increasing the share of recycled materials, aiming for 50% by 2030.
H&M Group adheres to various international standards, including the UN Global Compact, and their sustainability reports act as their Communication on Progress. They also align with the European Sustainability Reporting Standards (ESRS) and have their climate targets verified by the Science Based Targets initiative.
H&M Group has implemented water recycling initiatives in their supply chain, achieving a 19.6% recycling rate in 2024, up from 12.2% in 2022. They are also working towards reducing freshwater consumption in production processes.
H&M Group achieved a 24% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions in their own operations and a 22% reduction in their supply chain from the 2019 baseline. They are investing in renewable energy projects, such as co-investing in a wind farm in Bangladesh.
H&M Group has set science-based targets to reduce absolute emissions by 56% across scopes 1, 2, and 3 by 2030, with a net-zero goal by 2040. As of 2023, they have achieved a 24% reduction in scopes 1 and 2, and a 22% reduction in scope 3 emissions from the 2019 baseline.
H&M Group has transitioned their online packaging from plastic to paper, completing this shift in 2023. They are also working on replacing inner care bags with paper alternatives, moving towards fully plastic-free packaging.
H&M Group is investing in circular business models, such as launching Looper Textile Co. for garment reuse and recycling. They are also expanding their second-hand fashion offerings and working on designing products for longer use and easier recycling.
H&M Group is committed to supporting women both in and outside the workplace, being ranked #7 out of 400 in Forbes' top companies for women in 2023. However, specific details on fair wages and labor practices in their supply chain are less transparent.
H&M Group has policies in place to ensure animal welfare, such as banning the use of real fur and angora. However, detailed information on their overall animal welfare practices and certifications is limited.