Elk has released its annual Transparency Report, detailing its areas of impact, progress and improvement.
The 2022 Transparency Report details where, who and how Elk makes its products as well as the social and environmental impacts of its operations.
This year's report marks the fourth consecutive year the business has released the report, demonstrating its commitment to transparent operations and circular fashion.
In a statement, Elk founders Adam Koniaras and Marnie Goding (pictured) said the driving force behind the Transparency Report is a deep desire within the business to make sure it is having the lightest impact possible.
"Around us we see and feel the effects of the worsening climate crisis and it is frightening. As business founders we continually question whether what we are doing is just.
"'How much are we contributing to this escalating disaster? Can we run and grow a business whilst limiting our effect on the environment at the same time?'
"The answer is that as a traditional fashion business, no we cannot.
"The most vital thing is for us is to keep our eyes open, to see opportunities for improvement and to see where we can invest time, finance and energy into change and innovation.
"To be the responsible business we claim to be and to cement our position as a purpose led brand we have to live and lead by example," Goding and Koniaras said.
And while there is always more work to be done to improve, Elk has achieved some impressive milestones in its mission to become better.
Key highlights in the brand's 2022 Transparency Report include:
- A 90% reduction in absolute scope one and two emissions, working towards a target of 100% reduction by 2030.
- Elk has been powered by solar energy since April 2021. Onsite solar provides 45% of power, with the balance purchased as 100% GreenPower.
- The 2021 collections were made with 45% environmentally preferred materials, up from 27% in 2020.
- Avoided using 978kg of new plastic through expanding the use of FSC certified paper garment bags. Overall, 99% of the brand's packaging is now recyclable or compostable.
- When it comes to fabrics, Elk used more organic cotton and introduced its first Australian grown cotton garments. Additionally, the business reduced its leather footprint by using vegan styles with natural and synthetic materials. Further, Elk traced more of its man-made cellulosic fibres, with 92% coming from CanopyStyle Green Shirt rated producers. The business also launched its (Re)New program, which sees vintage and repaired Elk pieces sold in-store.
- The business has supported the TreeProject to plant 69,131 native seedlings since 2020. It also joined 1% for the Planet, committing to donate 1% of all sales to environmental not-for-profits. Additionally, Elk donated $126,000 in cash, product, and paid volunteer hours to its charity partners, up from $85,000 in 2020. The business also launched its charity product label, Elk Giving, which donates 100% of profits from selected sales to Positive Change for Marine Life.