Is Hermes a Sustainable Company?

In recent years, sustainability has become a buzzword in the fashion industry, with increasing pressure on brands to be more socially and environmentally responsible. One luxury brand that has come under scrutiny for its sustainability practices is Hermes.

What is Hermes?

Hermes is a French luxury goods company that specializes in leather, lifestyle accessories, perfumes, and ready-to-wear fashion. It was founded in 1837 by Thierry Hermes and is known for its iconic Birkin and Kelly bags. The brand has a reputation for quality craftsmanship and exclusivity, with products that often carry high price tags.

The Sustainability Scorecard

When it comes to sustainability, Hermes has been making efforts to improve its practices. In 2020, the company released its first-ever sustainability report detailing its progress towards becoming more environmentally friendly.

Environmental Impact

One of the main concerns when it comes to fashion brands is their impact on the environment. Hermes has implemented several initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint and waste production. The company has set a Target of reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 40% by 2025 through measures such as using renewable energy sources and optimizing transportation routes.

In addition, Hermes has implemented eco-design strategies that aim to reduce waste during the production process. For example, the brand uses leftover leather scraps to create small leather goods such as keychains and wallets.

Social Responsibility

Another important aspect of sustainability is social responsibility. This includes fair labor practices and ethical sourcing of materials.

Hermes claims to have strict guidelines in place for suppliers regarding labor rights, working conditions, and environmental impact. The company also supports local communities through various initiatives such as preserving traditional crafts.

Room for Improvement

While Hermes has made efforts towards sustainability, there are still areas where the brand can improve. For example:

  • The company does not use any sustainable materials, such as organic cotton or recycled materials, in its products.
  • Hermes does not disclose the percentage of sustainable materials used in its packaging.
  • The brand does not have a policy in place for the use of hazardous chemicals during production.

Conclusion

Overall, while Hermes has implemented some sustainability initiatives, there is still room for improvement. The brand could benefit from investing in sustainable materials and more transparent reporting on its sustainability practices.

As consumers become more conscious about their environmental impact, it’s important for luxury brands like Hermes to take responsibility and make significant changes towards a more sustainable future.