Selfridges has launched Project Earth, a transformational sustainability initiative with five-year commitments and ambitions to change the way consumers shop. The initiative will help consumers to reduce waste, choose forest friendly products and choose recycled or ‘pre-loved’ products.
“Project Earth is about us taking radical action in response to the climate crisis,” says Daniella Vega, director of Sustainability for Selfridges. “Our ambitious commitments to science-based targets and a net zero future underpin this, alongside our commitment to ensuring that the most environmentally impactful materials used right across our business come from certified, sustainable sources.”
Anne Pilcher, managing director of Selfridges Group, says that the launch of Project Earth is particularly timely as the pandemic marks “a moment of change in our customers to a more considered mindset,” with Alannah Weston, Selfridges’ group chairman, concurring: “Now more than ever we must double down on our efforts to reinvent retail with sustainability at its heart and a way of working that is regenerative for humans and nature.”
Black + Blum, whose product range includes re-usable water bottles – a top selling products sector for many gift retailers – is among the brands that are highlighted by the department store for reducing waste. Commenting, Nick Cornwell, managing director of black + blum, states: “It is great to see a retailer of the stature of Selfridges recognising one of the key tenets of the black + blum brand. We put sustainable design at the top of our agenda. By trying to use the right materials and by designing products built to last, we aim to contribute to the world’s challenge of reducing CO2 emissions and general waste. I am sure that we will be seeing more and more retailers following this excellent initiative by Selfridges.”
The department store is also introducing a refill service and hopes to instil a greater appreciation of longevity and re-use.
Project Earth webinar discussions on sustainability will be taking place as follows: Ethical Consumerism on September 18, and Eco Innovations on October 15.
Top: Above: The façade of Selfridges Oxford Street shows Project Earth’s mission to change the way consumers shop.
