NWG // SUSTAINABILITY REPORT
Policies and guidelines related to climate change mitigation and adaptation New Wave Group ' s CSR and environmental policy governs how we address issues related to climate change, including mitigation and adaptation. The focus is on integrating sustainable practices into our core processes. This includes increasing knowledge( internally and externally) on sustainability matters, improving energy efficiency, transitioning to renewable energy, efficient use of natural resources, using more preferred fibers and materials in products, and advancing chemical management efforts.
As part of supplier audits, we also apply the Codes of Conducts for amfori BSCI and amfori BEPI. The amfori BSCI Code of Conduct includes the principle of " Protection of the Environment ", which requires environmental management systems. This is further reinforced in the amfori BEPI Code of Conduct, which also requires efficient management practices for energy use and emissions. These codes of conduct are signed by manufacturing suppliers as part of the business agreement.
Actions and resources related to climate change Design, product development, and choice of material Design and product development are the first steps toward creating sustainable products- whether clothing or crystal art glass. Our products are designed to enable a long lifespan, which is the most important step in reducing the environmental burden caused by a linear industry. Research shows that extending the active lifespan of a garment by two, i. e., using the garment twice as many times compared to the average, reduces its climate impact by 49 %( Mistra Future Fashion, 2019). To enable a long lifespan, quality and timeless design are essential aspects of product development.
Regarding choice of material, there is no simple or universal answer to which fibers or materials are the most sustainable. All materials have advantages and disadvantages from a sustainability perspective, with quality being the most central aspect. Regardless of the material, we have a responsibility to use resources as wisely as possible. A key part of transitioning to a more sustainable industry is developing products and packaging using preferred materials and / or smarter manufacturing processes.
Risk assessment and actions in the supply chain Extending the lifespan of products by two and producing them using renewable energy results in a combined reduction in climate impact of 67 %( Mistra Future Fashion, 2019). Energy, therefore, is a critical area for reducing emissions across the Group. A significant focus is placed on energy use and energy sources among our suppliers. Different countries and suppliers have varying access to renewable energy sources and required investments. Currently, much of the effort involves raising the issue in discussions to explore possibilities and include suppliers in training on emissions and energy use.
New Wave Group benefits from its procurement strategy as dialogues are conducted directly with manufacturing suppliers, without agents or intermediaries. In many cases, fabrics are also purchased directly, where a significant part of the impact lies due to the large amounts of energy, water, and chemicals used in production. Thus, the company has good opportunities for direct influence on critical processes.
Furthermore, we have started working with amfori BEPI for environmental risk assessments of suppliers. This framework helps us identify key environmental issues in the supply chain to effectively locate and manage potential risks.
Education and knowledge sharing Adding to extended product lifespans and renewable energy in production, if consumers walk or take the bicycle to stores instead of driving, this results in a total reduction in climate impact of 78 %( Mistra Future Fashion, 2019). This underscores the need for broader systemic change among both producers and consumers. New Wave Group plays an active role in spreading knowledge and information on sustainable consumption, incorporating this as a natural part of collaboration and communication with stakeholders, including through internal and external training and lectures.
Transport and logistics Most New Wave Group ' s transports is container-based sea freight between Asia and Europe. For goods traveling long distances, shipping by boat or air is often the only option. Air freight contributes the highest greenhouse gas emissions, so its use is limited to situations where it is absolutely necessary, such as urgent deliveries critical to major business agreements.
Key measures include reviewing logistics, creating efficient routines, and planning purchases well in advance. The Group strives for consolidated shipping among its companies so that shipping containers are always optimally filled during transport. We are also meticulous about choosing partners and work only with well-known transporters that are considered to be at the forefront of sustainability efforts, for both sea freight and land transport.
Challenges in shipping include emissions, pollution, and waste from vessels. The most significant environmental gains can be achieved through better fuels and ships with improved environmental performance. New Wave Group is therefore a member of the Clean Shipping Index. Founded in 2007, the Clean Shipping Index has developed a tool to help companies evaluate different vessels based on their environmental performance. Through a database, we gain access to measurable data, such as emissions and chemical pollution from different vessels. The purpose is to create market incentives for shipping companies to improve their environmental efforts.
070 // ANNUAL REPORT