The audit by Green Threads DPP focuses specifically on down processing, using actual facility and supply chain data to quantify its carbon footprint. The result gives brands a more specific benchmark for evaluating the carbon impact of the down they source and the processes used to prepare it for finished products.
“We've known for years that down plays an important role in building a more circular and lower-impact apparel value chain,” said Daniel Uretsky, president of Allied Feather + Down. “These audited results allow us to put real numbers behind that belief. The data shows that our processing methods deliver a dramatically lower carbon footprint than other down providers, giving brands objective information they can use when making material decisions.”
The audit found that Allied’s processing methods generated 0.48 Kg CO₂e per KG of down, about 85% lower than estimated industry averages (3.2 Kg CO₂e per Kg) for conventional down and 57.9% lower than published figures (1.14 Kg CO₂e per Kg) for recycled down.
The audit also found that the carbon footprint of Allied’s down is 95% lower than the estimated carbon footprint of polyester fibres used in alternative insulations.
Allied said the results are the culmination of years of work across its global facilities and with supply chain partners. Allied’s Hangzhou facility utilises on-site water reclamation, allowing 95% of all water to be reused, with only around 5% lost to evaporation. Solar power, along with efficiencies implemented throughout the facility, has also significantly reduced energy consumption and carbon emissions.
The company's longstanding partnership with its detergent supplier also resulted in the development of eco-friendly detergents designed to perform in cold water and rinse more easily, significantly reducing the water traditionally required for additional rinse cycles while lowering energy and gas consumption.
“These results reinforce what makes Allied’s down unique within the global insulation category,” added Uretsky. “Not only is down a renewable material that already exists as a byproduct of the food industry, but when combined with our processing methods, it also creates significantly less carbon. That's a powerful combination for brands looking to reduce environmental impact without compromising performance.”
