Taking care of biodiversity is a key part of Marimekko’s environmental responsibility. In our value chain, the largest impacts on nature arise from raw material production, which is why we develop our ways of working and collaborate, for example, with our suppliers to promote the well-being of nature.
Assessing nature impacts in line with the SBTN framework
We have assessed the nature impacts of our operations in line with the Science Based Targets Network (SBTN) framework. Our initial assessment focused on land use, freshwater-related risks, and areas significant for biodiversity. The review covered both our own operations and the supply chains of the raw materials we use most, as well as raw materials associated with significant environmental impacts, in line with the SBTN guidance on High Impact Commodities.
Based on the assessment, the most significant nature impact in our own operations relates to water use, while in the value chain the most significant impacts are linked especially to raw material production, including land and water use as well as soil and water pollution.
In the coming years, we will use the assessment results to define our nature roadmap, targets and metrics and to further specify our operating principles.
Reducing nature impacts through material choices
Marimekko has Product Requirements that guide the sourcing of our materials. The Product Requirements prohibit, for example, materials based on plant or animal species classified as critically endangered or endangered on the IUCN Red List; materials from species covered by the CITES convention; and leather originating from the deforested Amazon region or other areas where forests have been cleared for agriculture.
We are committed to sourcing only wood-based materials that are made from recycled raw materials or raw materials certified by FSC or PEFC. Through these choices, we aim to reduce the risk of deforestation in our supply chain.
Marimekko’s own operations and sensitive natural areas
We have mapped the locations of our own sites in relation to biologically valuable and protected areas. Marimekko has no own operations in Key Biodiversity Areas, Ramsar wetland sites, UNESCO World Heritage sites or nationally protected areas.
Long product lifespans reduce nature impacts
We strive to create high-quality, timeless products that are used for a long time. Extending product lifespans and using recycled materials are key ways for us to reduce nature impacts, as they help reduce pressure on land-use change, greenhouse gas emissions and water use. In addition, by following circular economy principles, we can build a value chain that places less burden on nature.