Significant reductions in carbon emissions have been achieved by Primark as they transition to renewable energy sources. This is a noteworthy achievement for the high street retailer. Here are the key points highlighting their progress in sustainability.
- Primark’s annual report for Sustainability and Ethics shows an 11.6% reduction in carbon emissions for the year ending 31 July 2024.
- The reduction in emissions is primarily due to a 21% decrease in Scope 1 and 2 emissions, stemming from increased use of renewable energy and biofuel in logistics.
- Primark made significant advancements in recycled and circular textiles, with 66% of its clothing now comprising recycled or more sustainable materials.
- With an aim towards 100% sustainably sourced cotton by 2030, Primark has already achieved 57% of its cotton clothing being sustainable.
Primark has reported a substantial reduction in carbon emissions for the first time in three years, marking a pivotal moment in its sustainability journey. For the 12 months ending 31 July 2024, the retailer saw an 11.6% year-on-year decline in total carbon emissions. Compared to its baseline year of 2018/2019, emissions have also dropped by 1.9%.
This environmental progress was largely driven by a 21% decrease in Scope 1 and 2 emissions. These are direct emissions from owned or controlled sources and indirect emissions from the generation of purchased electricity. Primark has switched 64% of its electricity needs to renewable sources in its stores, headquarters, and depots. This includes a noteworthy partnership with Maersk to replace traditional fuels with biofuels for shipments, which emit about 40% less greenhouse gas.
In addition to energy changes, Primark’s steps toward using recycled and circular textiles have been impactful. According to their latest report, 66% of all Primark clothing sold between 1 August 2023 and 31 July 2024 contained either recycled or sustainably sourced materials. This is a considerable jump from the previous year’s 55%, aligning with their 2030 goal for all clothing to be made from sustainable materials.
Primark’s Sustainable Cotton Project, which began in 2013, continues to expand its influence. The programme, renamed to align with the EU’s Green Claims Directive, has contributed to the retailer achieving 57% sustainable cotton clothing throughout the last year. This includes organic, recycled, or cotton sourced through this initiative, showcasing a steady increase from the previous year.
Primark’s commitment to innovation and sustainability is further exemplified by its introduction of the Circular Product Standard in April 2023. This year, 3% of all Primark’s clothing was designed to be circular, enhancing durability and recyclability. These include the Rita Ora and Disney’s The Lion King ranges, developed in line with the principles set out by the Ellen MacArthur Foundation.
The focus on durability is not limited to product lines alone. Primark has partnered with WRAP and followed guidance from research conducted by Hubbub and the University of Leeds. This collaboration has led to the development of a Durability Framework, which stresses that clothing should withstand 45 machine washes and remain wearable. Lynne Walker, Primark Cares Director, emphasised the shared responsibility between the company’s teams and suppliers.
Moreover, Primark has been proactive in educational initiatives, offering circular design training to its employees. To date, 529 colleagues, representing 80% of the eligible staff, have completed this training. This educational push fits into a broader strategy of ‘greening’ the workforce, ensuring that team members across the company understand and contribute to sustainability goals.
Primark’s latest progress report reflects significant strides towards sustainability, showcasing its commitment to reducing environmental impact and promoting responsible practices within the fashion industry.
