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Burberry commits to toxic-free fashion

UK luxury brand Burberry made a commitment last week to eliminate the use of hazardous chemicals from its supply chain by 1 January 2020, according to environmental activist group Greenpeace.

Burberry’s move comes after two weeks of people powered campaigning on the brand’s social media channels, reaching an audience of millions, while last week Greenpeace volunteers held protests at stores from Beijing to Mexico City.

Last month, Greenpeace revealed the result of a new investigation which found a broad range of hazardous chemicals in children’s clothing and footwear across a number of major clothing brands, including Burberry, Uniqlo, H&M, Gap, Nike and Adidas.

The study follows on from several previous investigations published by Greenpeace as part of its Detox campaign, which identified that hazardous chemicals are present in textile and leather products as a result of their use during manufacture. It confirms that the use of hazardous chemicals is still widespread – even during the manufacture of clothes for children and infants.

"Burberry’s commitment to rid us of these hazardous little monsters opens a new chapter in the story of toxic-free fashion. In taking this landmark step, Burberry has listened to its customers demands, joining the ranks of brands acting on behalf of parents everywhere to give this toxic nightmare the happy ending it deserves," said Ilze Smit, Detox campaigner at Greenpeace International.

As part of its commitment to eliminate all hazardous chemicals from all the products the brand produces or sells, Burberry will first prioritise apparel. In addition, by no later than end of June 2014, Burberry will start disclosing the chemical discharges of its suppliers in the global South. And, by no later than 1 July 2016, Burberry has committed to eliminate all per- and poly- fluorinated chemicals in its supply-chain.

"Burberry’s move raises the bar for the luxury sector. With the Fashion Weeks coming up, brands like Gucci, Versace and Louis Vuitton risk getting left behind. From budget to luxury, people have a right to demand our clothes are free from hazardous chemicals and big brands have a responsibility to do something about it," added Smit.