Vaude, the outdoor clothing company has positively eliminated seven chemicals of concern from its manufacturing process. This includes controversial PFCs.

The company has signed the Greenpeace Detox Commitment in 2015 with the goal of systematically eliminating chemicals from its manufacturing process by 2020. Vaude pledges that its apparel collection has been PFC-free since 2018 and this year the brand has done the same for all footwear and backpack as well.

The seven hazardous substance groups have successfully been eliminated from the production process. The brand hopes to make greater changes pertaining to the other four groups. Vaude has been working for years to make the manufacturing process as clean and safe as possible. The company has been a part of the Bluesign system since 2001 by following strict sustainability standards for textiles.

Bettina Roth, the head of quality management at Vaude, stated that they are confident about achieving their goal, which is to completely eliminate hazardous chemicals from production.

There is a couple of hazardous substance that the company uses due to lack of alternatives. The company has gradually begun eliminating these. Chemicals as well. Antje von Dewitz, the CEO of Vaude, stated that when Greenpeace set their sights on the outdoor industry in 2012 with the Detox Campaign, they saw a great opportunity to finally make a difference across the industry and develop alternatives for chemicals of concern. 

Vaude has constantly been working with manufacturers and Restricted Substance List (MRSL) to ensure compliance with stated limits and regulations. The primary partners of the firm have signed with MRSL and have completely committed themselves to compliance with Vadu’s requirements, which has also been verified by periodic wastewater tests.

The company has also committed to developing innovative business models for more sustainable consumptions.