Gildan explains its targets align with the SBTi criteria and recommendations (version 4.2), which it notes is a significant advancement of the company's ESG strategy.
The SBTi’s target validation team has classified Gildan’s Scope 1 and 2 targets and has determined that it is in line with a well-below 2ºC trajectory.
Peter Iliopoulos, senior vice president of taxation, sustainability, and governmental affairs at Gildan says: "The validation of our emissions targets by SBTi further reinforces our commitment and builds on our foundation of strong sustainability practices which include social, environmental, and economic benefits in the communities where we operate. We understand the importance of climate change and over the last year, we have been implementing our new climate strategy across our organisation in order to make meaningful progress to ensure we attain our third generation of GHG emissions reduction targets."
He adds this is a testament to Gildan's commitment towards making purposeful advancements by 2030 in line with its Next Generation ESG strategy.
The Canadian apparel maker unveiled its new Next Generation ESG strategy and targets last year which seek to address global environmental and social priorities and increase the sustainability of products delivered to customers worldwide.
As part of this strategy, Gildan is committed to reducing its absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 30% by 2030 from a 2018 base year.
Gildan has also committed to reducing absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions by 13.5% by 2030 from a 2019 base year. In fact, the company highlights that both targets have now been reviewed and validated by the SBTi.
