Eliminating PVC

In 2000, we were one of the first companies in the global consumer goods sector to decide to eliminate PVC from our products.

Alternatives have been found and introduced for most uses. Nearly all styles of our global product range are PVC-free. However, in a few countries, alternatives are not available so some local production of athletic footwear products still uses PVC.

During 2006, as a result of the integration process, the Group’s policy to eliminate PVC was rolled out to the new Group entities, where no such programme existed.

In 2007 we specifically analysed those product categories where we still see significant technical challenges in removing PVC ingredients from certain product styles, for example in the continued use of plastisole high-solid prints on tee-shirts. Since this is an industry-wide challenge and there is no technically viable option available to date, we developed a three-year plan to work with ink suppliers and factories on technical solutions that will also meet our quality standards.

And we continue to engage with material scientists to understand the environmental impact of other chlorine-based materials that are widely used in the industry as PVC replacements.

• Alternatives have been found and introduced for most uses. Nearly all styles of our global product range are PVC-free.

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