Activewear Goes Solar | “Sustainable” is Obtainable 

North America is spearheading the global activewear market, which is projected to reach $451.10 billion by 2028. However, with this growing success, the industry faces increasing pressure from eco-conscious consumers and active outdoor enthusiasts to lead by example in environmental impact and sustainability. 

Some brands dare ignore consumers’ environmental concerns, procrastinate on their public pledges, or purchase Renewable Energy Credits (RECs) in hopes to appease their critics. While the latter is admittedly more admirable than the former, a growing number of industry leaders in active, outdoor gear and apparel are finding favor with eco-conscious consumers by demonstrating authentic dedication to sustainability through their direct investment in on-site solar energy.

PUMA

In 2003, PUMA, one of the world’s leading sports brands, reduced its CO2 emissions 23.2% per piece of garment, 40.7% per square meter of leather produced, and 9.2% per ton of textile produced. PUMA credits these reductions to a three-year climate initiative consisting of various actions including installation of rooftop solar projects at multiple locations and the participation of core suppliers in cleaner production and renewable energy.

The global apparel and footwear industry is responsible for 2.1 billion tons of carbon emissions, equivalent to the emissions of France, Germany and the U.K. combined.

ImpactAlpha (June, 20202)

HEADSWEATS

Dawned on the domes of countless Tour de France riders, Ironman winners, marathoners, and elite bike racers around the world, Headsweats claims “more triathlon finishers and podiums than any other headwear company.” Inspired by the success of their solar covered factory in El Salvador, Headsweats has expanded is sustainability efforts with photovoltaic panels atop their fully vertical integrated manufacturing facility in Boulder, Colorado.

REI CO-OP

Then, of course, there’s REI, whose well-known obsession with outdoor living, camping, sport and adventure runs deep in its community’s culture and public mantra: “We believe a life outdoors is a life well-lived!” Though REI-branded apparel grabs more market share every year, the company is best known as a powerhouse retailer for other, popular head-to-toe outdoor apparel brands. They have leveraged this role by promoting REI Product Impact Standards and practicing unapologetic preference to partnering brands that meet said standards.

REI Co-Op first announced its commitment to becoming carbon neutral is 2006. Through the installation of solar power systems atop several dozen retail stores, REI’s electricity has been 100% renewable since 2013. Then, at the time of its construction in 2016, the company’s 400,000-square-foot distribution center in Goodyear, Arizona, became the largest net-zero and LEED Platinum building in America. Upon achieving carbon neutrality in 2020, REI announced an ambitious initiative to not only continue sourcing complete renewable energy, but also cut their carbon footprint in half by 2030.

28% of consumers say they have stopped buying from brands with poor ethical or sustainability values. 

World Economic Forum (March, 2022)

WHAT’S THEIR WHY?

Why don’t these active apparel brands just stay in their lane? Why would activewear leaders like PUMA, Headsweats, and REI Co-Op, not to mention the usual suspects (Patagonia, Salomon, On, KEEN, etc.), invest the time, energy, and presumably large sums of money to plan and execute peripheral, sustainability goals? With apparel recognized as one of the worst polluting industries, more and more brand leaders are acting out of a strong sense of personal and corporate responsibility. Even more, these brands know their customers. The more time consumers spend on outdoor exercise and recreation, the more passionate they seek to support brands who share their environmental convictions.

MAKES “SUSTAINABLE” OBTAINABLE

Solar One is here to help your gear and apparel brand achieve its sustainability and environmental impact objectives by creating a customized, energy-saving solar power system tailored to your specific needs. Our systems are already powering headquarters, manufacturing plants, and large distribution centers across the United States. We excel in navigating federal, state, and industry incentives, using the safest, most cost-effective equipment and best practices for easy maintenance and long-term efficiency. Start the conversation with Solar One today, and take a step closer to fulfilling both your and your customers’ sustainability goals.

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