The North Face Leads in Regenerative Sourcing for Sustainable Materials

Outdoor gear manufacturer The North Face is setting a high standard in sustainable material sourcing with its commitment to regenerative agriculture practices. The company’s sustainability strategy focuses on four key pillars: materials, packaging, circularity, and suppliers.

Carol Shu, senior manager of global sustainability at The North Face, emphasized the importance of responsibly sourced products that aim to have a positive impact on nature and resources. To achieve this, the company is working towards having 100 percent of its leading apparel fabrics originating from recycled, responsibly sourced renewable, or regeneratively grown sources by 2025.

Regenerative agriculture, a key focus for The North Face, involves holistic farming practices that prioritize soil health and biodiversity. One of the company’s initiatives includes sourcing cotton and rubber from farms that practice regenerative agriculture.

In the realm of cotton sourcing, The North Face recognizes the environmental impacts associated with conventional cotton farming, such as water-intensive cultivation and extensive pesticide use. Regenerative cotton cultivation addresses these issues by implementing practices like cover cropping, crop rotation, and minimal tillage.

For rubber, which is vital in outdoor footwear and accessories, regenerative rubber cultivation aims to support healthy ecosystems, preserve biodiversity, and positively impact local communities. The North Face is working with partners to promote agroforestry, a practice that involves growing rubber trees alongside other vegetation to mimic natural ecosystems and support wildlife habitats.

To transform its complex supply chain, The North Face collaborates with industry stakeholders, NGOs, and other brands under its parent company, VF Corporation. The company is focused on scaling regenerative materials and leveraging collective resources to address sustainability challenges.

Building strong connections with farmers is a priority for The North Face. Through partnerships with organizations like Regenerative Design Studio, the company is actively engaging with cotton and rubber farmers to promote regenerative practices and provide premium incentives for adopting sustainable farming methods.

The North Face’s efforts in regenerative sourcing demonstrate a commitment to sustainability and innovation in the business world. By embracing regenerative agriculture practices, the company is paving the way for a more circular and environmentally conscious future in the apparel and outdoor gear industry.