Zalando has pledged to cut carbon emissions in its own operations by 80% before 2025.
The fast fashion retailer also said that over the same period it would cut 40% in emissions per €1 million of gross profit from private label production compared to 2018.
Measures taken will include powering all sites with electricity from renewable sources such as solar panels, as well as retrofitting existing warehouses.
The news comes after the company said it would require 90% of its partners, including brands and logistics partners, to reduce their own emissions.
Kate Heiny, director of sustainability at Zalando SE, said: “Having our science-based targets approved is an important milestone for our sustainability strategy. We believe there is a clear link between sustainability and continued commercial success in selling fashion online.
“The global coronavirus situation has shown us how flexible and fast the economy can be when change is needed, and this should be used as a blueprint when it comes to sustainability. Now is the time for a clear sustainability strategy and ambitious goals. As a platform we want to do more and thus did not limit our science-based targets to our own business but will join forces with our partners.”
