Levi’s Tackles Scope 3 Emissions in New Climate Plan

Levi Strauss & Co. has revealed a sweeping climate transition plan aimed at achieving net zero emissions by 2050.

With a focus on reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across all areas of its operations, the iconic denim company sets ambitious targets, including cutting its Scope 3 emissions by 42% by 2030. 

Levi's is taking a leadership position in the apparel industry with this initiative, which aligns with the global 1.5º pathway to limit climate change. This move sends a strong message to investors, supply chain partners and consumers alike about the company’s long-term commitment to sustainability.

For a company like Levi’s, Scope 3 emissions are generated throughout its extensive value chain, from cotton farming and garment manufacturing to the energy used by consumers when washing their clothes.

Recognising the significant environmental impact of scope 3 emissions, Levi’s has adopted a multi-pronged approach to tackle the issue. It’s not just about reducing the company’s direct operations but also ensuring that every part of the supply chain is engaged in lowering emissions.

Engaging suppliers for Scope 3 success

Levi’s strategy to address scope 3 emissions involves deep collaboration with its global network of suppliers.

This approach is vital as a large portion of these emissions originates from suppliers, especially in areas like fabric production, dyeing and garment assembly.

The company has set Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) aligned goals for its suppliers, a rigorous standard for carbon reduction aligned with climate science.

To support these goals, Levi’s is investing in sustainable materials and providing financing options to help suppliers adopt energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources.

The plan also aims to promote innovation and circularity within the supply chain, ensuring that suppliers can reduce their environmental impact while maintaining productivity.

By focusing on suppliers, Levi’s is effectively addressing two major Scope 3 categories: purchased goods and services and upstream transportation and distribution.

The company’s efforts to optimise logistics, reduce emissions from transporting raw materials and transition suppliers to more sustainable energy sources are critical steps toward the 2030 target.

Tackling the consumer end: Design and education

Levi’s also recognises that a significant portion of scope 3 emissions comes from consumer use, which includes the washing and drying of garments.

To address this, Levi’s is focusing on designing products that last longer and require less frequent washing. Educating consumers about the environmental benefits of lower-impact care practices is also part of the strategy.

By encouraging customers to wash their jeans less often, use cold water and air dry instead of tumble drying, Levi’s aims to reduce the carbon footprint of its products even after they’ve left the store.

The company’s commitment to durability and sustainability in product design is already visible.

It has made strides in using sustainable fibres, with 95% of its cotton being organic, recycled or Better Cotton and 100% of its manmade cellulosic fibres sourced from Canopy Green Shirt-rated suppliers.

Plus, the company is steadily increasing the use of recycled polyester in its garments.

Future focus: Climate governance and collaboration

Levi’s climate transition plan doesn’t stop with operations and supply chain management; the company is embedding climate risks and opportunities into its core business strategies. 

This includes integrating environmental considerations into annual business plans and proactively seeking third-party feedback to refine its climate initiatives. In doing so, Levi’s ensures that its efforts to tackle Scope 3 emissions are sustainable and grounded in expert advice.

A significant part of this forward-thinking approach involves collaboration, not just within its own supply chain but across the entire apparel industry. Levi’s is actively participating in partnerships that drive circularity, promote sustainable cotton farming, and support renewable energy projects.

Chief Sustainability Officer, Jeffrey Hogue, emphasised the importance of collective action in combating climate change, stating: "Our climate transition plan reflects our dedication to fulfilling our responsibilities, achieving our objectives and collaborating with partners throughout our value chain to foster collective efforts against climate change."

Levi Strauss & Co.'s climate transition plan is more than a corporate initiative; it is a call to action for the apparel industry to prioritise sustainability and collective responsibility.

In focusing on Scope 3 emissions, Levi’s addresses the largest and most complex part of its carbon footprint, showing that the company is willing to tackle the toughest challenges in its journey toward Net Zero.

The company’s plan demonstrates that tackling Scope 3 emissions isn’t just an environmental imperative - it’s a business necessity for building resilience in the face of climate change.

As Levi’s continues to refine its strategies and take bold steps towards its 2050 Net Zero goal, the fashion industry will be watching closely.

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