The tools award points to each process or material based on its ability to improve against a set of environmental criteria. In the Footwear Guideline Tool, a weighting system is applied, which gives large parts (outsoles, base uppers) and large processes (pattern efficiency) more points when they reduce waste or energy than the smaller processes (closures, laces)....
The tools award points to each process or material based on its ability to improve against a set of environmental criteria. In the Footwear Guideline Tool, a weighting system is applied, which gives large parts (outsoles, base uppers) and large processes (pattern efficiency) more points when they reduce waste or energy than the smaller processes (closures, laces).
The Apparel Tool is based upon the same principle, with large processes carrying more weight, and action required in these areas for the product to pass the minimum level.
Points are then totalled up, and a product is ranked against three levels:
- Baseline level, containing a minimum of 5% sustainable content or process improvements
- Competitive, requiring a majority of sustainable content or process improvements
- Technically advanced in the area of sustainability, with 100% sustainable content and technology innovations.
After reviewing this methodology against industry experts, adidas created the first generation of Better Place products which was released in the marketplace in January 2009.