NEWS
At Clarks, sustainability has always been at the forefront of our operations. Our dedication to preserving the environment is deeply embedded in our business practices, and we are continually evolving to meet the growing need for eco-friendly approaches. Today, this commitment is stronger than ever. In early 2022, we formalised our environmental efforts by establishing a clear and actionable pledge to reduce our environmental impact. This pledge guides every aspect of our business, from the way we design our products to the partnerships we forge.
It is no secret that industries across the world, particularly the automotive sector, are significant contributors to carbon emissions. However, change is happening. The Society of Motor Manufacturers and Traders (SMMT) 2021 annual report revealed that the automotive industry emitted 81,095 fewer tonnes of carbon dioxide (CO2) compared to the previous year. This significant reduction, part of a broader 70% decrease in emissions since 1999, underscores the importance of sustained environmental efforts. As Clarks, we aim to be a part of this positive momentum by actively implementing strategies that contribute to the global goal of reducing carbon emissions. By working collaboratively with like-minded partners and continuously reviewing our operations, we are doing our part to protect the environment.
In 2022, we introduced our “Environmental Pledge,” outlining a comprehensive approach to minimising our environmental footprint. This pledge touches on all areas of our business and is designed to challenge us to constantly improve.
Our Aim is to;
These goals are not just aspirations; they are actionable steps we are taking to make a real difference.
Reducing waste is one of the cornerstones of our environmental strategy. Our whole facility has been working to ensure that waste is kept to an absolute minimum. This includes optimising van conversions by smart ordering processes that reduce the need for excess material transportation. In addition, we actively sort, recycle or donate leftover materials.
For instance, office and production waste at our conversion centre is sorted to ensure that nothing is sent to landfill. By focusing on smarter production processes, we are minimising our impact on the environment while also driving efficiency within our business. Waste reduction is not only about environmental impact - it’s also about operational effectiveness. The less waste we produce, the more streamlined and cost-effective our processes become.
Our sustainability efforts extend beyond our own operations. A key element of our pledge is to partner with suppliers who share our values. By working with suppliers who are equally committed, we create a network of eco-conscious partners that amplify our environmental impact.
An example of this commitment is our transition to 100% renewable energy providers. This move has significantly reduced our reliance on fossil fuels, aligning with our broader goal of lowering emissions. In addition, we continuously evaluate our supply chain to ensure partners we work with share our vision. This collaborative approach is vital to achieving the goals laid out in our Environmental Pledge. When companies work together toward a common goal, the impact is far greater than when efforts are made in isolation.
Sourcing materials and services locally is another crucial aspect of our environmental strategy. By working closely with local businesses, we can significantly reduce the carbon footprint associated with transportation. Partnering with local suppliers means shorter transportation routes, leading to fewer emissions and contributing to our overall sustainability goals.
In collaboration with the Doncaster Chamber, we are also actively involved in nurturing local talent by offering apprenticeships and creating job opportunities within our community. Investing in the local economy not only reduces our environmental impact but also fosters stronger ties with the surrounding community. Sourcing locally also aligns with our goal to purchase goods and materials that require less energy to transport, further reducing the carbon emissions from our operations.
At Clarks, we are committed to continually updating our equipment to make it more energy-efficient and environmentally friendly. Our pledge includes replacing outdated or broken equipment with greener, more efficient alternatives whenever possible. This not only reduces our emissions but also improves the overall efficiency of our operations.
For instance, we recently invested in new equipment that allows us to work with lighter, stronger eco-friendly materials that are both recycled and recyclable. This ensures that the materials we use have a longer life cycle and that they can be repurposed at the end of their initial use, whilst reducing the overall weight of our conversions, thus reducing fuel costs and emissions.
As part of our Environmental Pledge, Clarks has partnered with Yorkshire Wildlife Trust, a charitable organisation dedicated to nature conservation. In collaboration with them, we have committed to planting at least one tree for every van conversion we complete.
So far, we have planted over 2,000 trees, helping to offset our carbon emissions and restore natural habitats. Trees play a crucial role in absorbing carbon dioxide, and by increasing the number of trees we plant, we are taking a proactive approach to reducing the environmental impact of our operations.
Sustainability isn’t just a part of our operations - it’s integrated into the very fabric of our business. From the way we handle waste to the suppliers we work with, every decision is made with the environment in mind. Our employees are encouraged to adopt eco-friendly practices, such as reusing and refilling water bottles and being mindful of their energy use. We also closely monitor our utilities providers, and as part of our sustainability efforts, we have transitioned to more environmentally responsible suppliers.
At Clarks, our Environmental Pledge is more than just a statement - it’s a roadmap for the future. We believe that every action we take, no matter how small, contributes to the larger goal of protecting the environment. By working together with our suppliers, customers, and employees, we are confident that we can create a sustainable future for generations to come.
As we continue on this journey, we are constantly looking for new ways to improve our environmental practices and reduce our impact on the planet. Whether it’s through reducing waste, sourcing locally, investing in greener equipment, or planting trees, we are committed to doing our part. Sustainability is a shared responsibility, and at Clarks, we are proud to be leading the way in creating a more sustainable future for all. Together, we can make a difference.
Our Environmental Pledge is just the beginning. As we move forward, we will continue to innovate, collaborate, and take action to ensure that our business leaves a positive legacy for the environment. We are excited about the future and are committed to working toward a greener, more sustainable world.
Together, we’re working to create a sustainable future!
Read more about our Environmental Pledge