Name of CEO/Founder: Ralph Lauren
State | Country: New York City, U.S
Date of incorporation: 1967
Link: https://www.ralphlauren.global/in/en/
Vision and Mission Statement
VISION – To Inspire the dream of a better life through authenticity and timelss style.
MISSION – We will be a leading luxury lifestyle company.
Multiple Initiatives - One Aim
Ralph Lauren Corporation, a global leader in premium lifestyle products, has long been synonymous with timeless style and quality. In recent years, the company has embarked on a significant journey towards sustainability, integrating environmental consciousness into its core business strategies. This case study delves into Ralph Lauren’s sustainability initiatives, highlighting key programs, goals, and statements from top executives that underscore the company’s dedication to a more sustainable future.
The Earth Polo Initiative
In April 2020, Ralph Lauren expanded its Earth Polo offering, reinforcing its commitment to environmental protection. The Earth Polo is crafted from thread derived from recycled plastic bottles and dyed using an innovative process that eliminates water usage. Each Earth Polo shirt is made from an average of 12 plastic bottles, addressing the pressing issue of plastic waste. David Lauren, Chief Innovation Officer, emphasized the significance of this initiative: “Changing the way we innovate, design and produce our products is the first of many steps we are taking as a Company to be more sustainable. For us, it all started with the Earth Polo.” This initiative aligns with Ralph Lauren’s goal to use 170 million recycled plastic bottles in its products and packaging by 2025.
Global Citizenship & Sustainability Strategy: Timeless by Design
Ralph Lauren’s sustainability strategy, known as “Timeless by Design,” is grounded in the philosophy of creating products that are enduring and can be cherished across generations. This approach reflects the company’s purpose: “to inspire the dream of a better life through authenticity and timeless style.” The strategy focuses on embedding this purpose throughout the business, ensuring that sustainability is integral to the company’s operations and culture.
Water Stewardship and Environmental Partnerships
Recognizing the critical importance of water conservation, Ralph Lauren has committed to reducing water consumption across its value chain and to replenishing and safeguarding water resources in communities. The company collaborates with organizations such as WaterAid to implement clean water systems and hygiene education in regions like Budhni, India. This program aims to impact the lives of 25,000 people by providing access to clean water in homes, schools, healthcare centers, and local communities. Additionally, Ralph Lauren is working to deliver essential water, sanitation, and hygiene services in factories, in coordination with partners like HERproject™.
Climate Action and Waste Management
Addressing the climate crisis requires significant reductions in global greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Ralph Lauren has developed an ambitious roadmap with bold near-term and long-term targets to reduce absolute GHG emissions across its operations and value chain. The company is also committed to minimizing waste in its operations and diverting waste from landfills and incineration to donation, reuse, and recycling. The goal is to incorporate zero waste principles throughout business practices, reflecting a comprehensive approach to environmental stewardship.
Chemical Management and Sustainable Materials
Ralph Lauren monitors and reduces hazardous chemical use and discharge to meet its goal of eliminating hazardous chemicals from product manufacturing and the supply chain. The company is launching a recycling program for 100% cashmere garments in partnership with Re-Verso™, developed as part of the Cradle to Cradle (C2C) initiative. This program exemplifies Ralph Lauren’s dedication to sustainable materials and circular fashion.
Executive Leadership and Vision
The commitment to sustainability is championed at the highest levels of Ralph Lauren Corporation. David Lauren, Chief Innovation Officer, has been a vocal advocate for integrating sustainable practices into product design and innovation. Halide Alagoz, Executive Vice President, Chief Supply Chain and Sustainability Officer, emphasized the company’s long-term vision: “When Ralph founded our company more than 50 years ago, he did so with the idea that whatever we create is meant to be worn, loved, and passed on for generations. It’s with this spirit of timelessness that we approach sustainability.”
Progress and Reporting
In June 2019, Ralph Lauren published its comprehensive Global Citizenship and Sustainability Report, outlining its strategy and goals. The company pledged to achieve zero waste to landfill across its distribution centers by 2023. By 2025, Ralph Lauren aims to achieve at least a 20% reduction in total water use across its operations and value chain, and ensure that 100% of its key production and packaging materials are recyclable or sustainably sourced. The 2024 Global Citizenship & Sustainability Report provides further details on these initiatives and progress made towards these goals.
Ralph Lauren’s sustainability initiatives reflect a deep-seated commitment to environmental stewardship and social responsibility. Through innovative programs like the Earth Polo, strategic partnerships, and a comprehensive sustainability strategy, the company is making significant strides towards a more sustainable future. The leadership’s vision and dedication to integrating sustainability into the core of the business serve as a model for the industry, demonstrating that timeless style and environmental consciousness can go hand in hand.
