Page 11 - Logistics News June 2016
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sustainability
It is typical for Timberland to not only take reach the 100% mark by 2020.
the lead, but also execute on its responsible- So, as is the case with like-minded companies,
sourcing commitments. Even Greenpeace, which
is notoriously skeptical of companies’ rhetoric on Timberland does not seek perfection, but it
sustainability, has praised Timberland for taking does covet the best possible outcome. Hence
action when it comes to leather, as the company the company’s drive to ensure that at least one
enacted policies to ensure any of that material component in all of its shoes comes from a more
going into its shoes, boots, belts or jackets does responsible material within five years.
not contribute to deforestation.
Timberland is redesigning uppers, outsoles,
But as is the case with many of its peer midsoles and linings. Its shoes now contain
companies, Timberland is struggling to make anywhere from 34% to 42% recycled content;
its supply chain less dependent on chemicals. the company seeks an across-the-board ratio
Take PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is often of 50%. That may be far from perfection for the
used because of its strength, durability and sustainability purist, but considering how many
flexibility. This component is found in many components are in one shoe, Timberland has
of the company’s popular work shoes, largely already reached some impressive metrics. Sure, a
because designers have not been able to find totally closed-loop system, or ‘cradle-to-cradle’,
an alternative material that can match the would be ideal; but on that front, the company
ruggedness of PVC. hopes more consumers will consider Timberland-
branded footwear to make such a vision more of
In many ways, cleansing that supply chain is a reality.
akin to a runner finishing the last segment of a
marathon – the final steps are often the most Making things better takes up a lot of sweat
difficult. The company says it is already mostly equity, but the quality of Timberland’s products
PVC-free, but because of those pesky uppers, – and its reputation – show that all that sweat,
for now Timberland describes its product lines late nights and travels to remote factories to
as 98% free from PVCs. The company hopes to ensure everyone is on the same page with the
company’s mission, are well worth the effort. •
June 2016 | Logistics News 9
