Our footprint
We’re reducing our environmental footprint
Pillar 2 of our sustainability framework, “Our Footprint,” focuses on the impact of the production and use of our clothing. Because every garment we produce has an impact on people and the environment. For example, through the materials used, the dyeing of fabrics, transportation, and even when consumers wash the clothing. CRG aims to quantify the full impact within the lifecycle of our clothing as accurately as possible - and then reduce it. Because to measure is to know.
Addressing Hotspots
CRG’s impact on climate change is divided into three so-called “scopes.” Scope 1 emissions are direct emissions from sources owned by CRG or over which we have control, such as our company vehicles and the heating in our buildings. Scope 2 emissions are indirect and, in our case, represent the emissions from purchased electricity. Scope 3 encompasses all emissions resulting from activities in our value chain over which we have no direct control. Examples include the production of the garments we sell, their transportation, the impact of their use, and the eventual disposal of this clothing.
The Start: Baseline Measurement
In the spring of 2024, we will work with Vaayu to map our climate emissions as accurately as possible. This renowned software company has won numerous awards for its CO2 software and approach, including the 2023 German Innovation Award for B2B Excellence and the 2022 EU Hottest Climate Tech/Sustainability Startup Award. Their methodology for calculating the carbon footprint is certified by the independent TÜV Rheinland and aligns with the requirements of the international Greenhouse Gas Protocol (GHG). The calculations are fully automated based on primary and secondary data. This takes into account the entire lifecycle of our garments. For the first time, we are calculating our emissions within Scopes 1, 2, and 3, while accounting for uncertainty factors. This calculation serves as our baseline measurement.
Reduction Targets and Actions
After determining our climate footprint, we will establish reduction targets and a reduction pathway, including concrete actions. In doing so, we will align with international targets for the fashion industry to the extent that this is practically, technically, and financially feasible. These additional actions will be in addition to our ongoing initiatives regarding material selection, energy consumption, and transportation.
What about water?
We actively monitor and reduce the water footprint within our own operations. For example, we use various methods to conserve water in our own buildings and stores. At JBC’s headquarters, for instance, we flush the toilets with rainwater and have installed tap water dispensers to avoid the use of bottled water. These measures are crucial to minimizing our own water consumption. However, the greatest impact on water consumption and water pollution comes from the production of our garments. Water consumption for growing cotton, dyeing and washing garments during production, and consumers washing their clothes are all significant factors.
Want to know more?
Would you like to learn more about our sustainability strategy? Read all about it in our 2025 sustainability report, or visit the websites of our brands CKS, JBC, and Mayerline.