Gildan has published its first standalone Climate Change Disclosure Report, highlighting how it’s handling climate-related matters.

The Montreal-headquartered global manufacturer of apparel basics said the report is structured in accordance with Task Force on Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (TCFD) recommendations. The report represents a significant step toward aligning with the TCFD framework by 2025, as part of Gildan’s Next Generation environmental, social and governance (ESG) strategy, according to the apparel maker, whose clothing sells extensively in the promotional products and apparel decorating markets.

“Gildan has been monitoring and addressing climate-related risks and opportunities for over 15 years, and the TCFD framework allows us to better understand our physical and transitional risks, as well as opportunities to enhance our resiliency over the long run,” said Peter Iliopoulos, senior vice president of taxation, sustainability and governmental affairs at Gildan.

The climate change report, available in full here, is part of Gildan’s full reporting suite, which included its 2021 annual report and 2021 ESG report, both of which were published earlier in 2022.

In the report, Gildan details its plan to reduce Scope 1 and Scope 2 greenhouse gas emissions by 30% by 2030, compared to a 2018 baseline; to reduce water intensity by 20% by 2030; source 100% sustainable cotton by 2025; achieve zero manufacturing waste by 2027; source 30% recycled polyester or alternative fiber yarns by 2027; and use 75% recycled and sustainable packaging and trims by 2027.

“We plan to attain our climate targets by continuing to increase energy efficiency across our operations, investing in renewable energy, and further reducing our reliance on fossil fuels,” the report states. “At the same time, we plan to further invest in water efficiency, reusing and recycling systems, reduce waste in our manufacturing process, and increase circularity in the manufacturing and packaging of our products.”

The report also looks at various risks and opportunities related to climate change. For instance, Gildan notes that extreme weather events related to climate change have had an impact on operations. In November 2020, its Central American facilities were affected by back-to-back hurricanes, which led to temporary shutdowns and equipment repair and replacement. Gildan details contingency plans in place to handle such situations, including investing in the resiliency of its manufacturing facilities to withstand extreme weather events and working with logistic partners to develop alternative routes.

Gildan brands include American Apparel and Comfort Colors.

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