Farfetch aims at becoming the most sustainable online luxury retailer in the world

It's no secret that sustainability has become the trickiest - and most challenging - topic in the fashion industry. After decades of not paying attention to the environmental impact and more generally to waste and the methods used in the supply chain, small and big brands are now working to improve their green approach. A shift in the way of producing and selling products that will also significantly affect online retailers, as evidenced by the new ambitious plan that Farfetch plans to implement between now and 2030 and which revolves around environmental sustainability. 

The luxury retailer, which also controls Browns, New Guards Group and Stadium Goods, stated that the long-term goal, to be implemented over the next ten years, is the increase and growth of the secondary market, in particular through the resale of bags and through sales and donations of vintage or pre-worn products, for a turnover that should double that of the primary market, until now Farfetch's main field of action. However, the plan would affect the entire company philosophy, with the aim also of reducing carbon emissions in order to obtain an ethical and inclusive business. The objectives to be achieved over the next ten years have been divided into four macro-areas: circularity, inclusion, conscious products and carbon neutrality. 

One of the main issues that the retailer has to face is in fact the high amount of carbon emissions due to the shipments that the platform carries out all over the world, a problem that has already been partially solved, thanks to the use of a carbon offsetting system, more efficient packaging and the use of renewable energy sources. By 2030 Farfetch intends to reduce its emissions to zero, in addition to working exclusively with renewable energy in its offices. The objective of circularity will be achieved thanks to the services offered by the platform, from the sale of used items to the repair of vintage objects, which will also be fundamental to reduce the environmental impact of the fashion industry and to fight at least partially the problem of overproduction. Also by 2030, all products sold on Farfetch or its platforms will eventually be "conscious" and ethical. This means that they will be products made with recycled and upcycled materials, in organic fabrics or from fair trade markets. It's a little less clear how the element of inclusiveness will instead be implemented within the company. Farfetch has so far spoken about its anti-discrimination culture and has also expressed its desire to offer commercial support and visibility to brands founded by designers from minorities.