manager_1 YKK has been working with brands and designers for many years and recognizes that sustainability and creativity are the pillars of fashion development.
In 1994, YKK released its first Environmental Charter. It stated that harmony with the environment was the highest priority for all of its business activities. YKK also launched the NATULON(R), a zipper made from recycled material.
Since then, which was almost 27 years ago, YKK continues to be a leader in sustainable products and actions. The Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action established a goal for 2020 for a 30% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions and net zero emissions for the fashion industry. YKK signed up for this in March of the same year. YKK also confirmed its commitment to climate change in October 2020 with the publication of its Sustainability Vision 2050, the company’s roadmap for addressing the issues of climate change, material resources and water resources. It aligned its efforts against no less than ten UN Sustainable Development Goals. Finally, the independent Science Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) approved YKK Corporation’s emission reduction targets in March 2021 as being consistent with the Paris Agreement goals. This includes limiting global warming well below 2 deg C above preindustrial levels, and pursuing efforts for 1.5 deg C.
YKK’s product development team is focusing on the creation of more environmentally-friendly technologies and sustainable materials. The latest results of this effort are found in the EMEA AW22-23 Collection. Here, the principles of circularity, reduction of resource, reuse, and recycling guide customers to concrete solutions to reduce their carbon footprint.
In response to the current global pandemic, the collection will be presented again digitally.
In the new collection, the NATULON(R) series is further extended to various product lines, such as Excella(R)Light Curve, the aluminum zipper with curved chain or Shiny metal zipper, the standard metal glossy chain and Vislon(R) click-TRAK(R), the molded plastic zipper that eases opening and closing operations. The NATULON(R) series aims to reduce the use of petroleum-derived materials, emission of greenhouse gases, and disposal of plastic waste by using recycled polyester yarn for the tape material.
Excella(R), which includes organic cotton tape, enriches the range sustainable products in YKK Collection. Organic Cotton is free of toxic chemicals and respectful to the soil. Organic Cotton also uses 62% less energy and 88% less water than conventional cotton.
Alongside the new version of the item launched during the last collection, Vislon(R) Nylon(R) made with mono-plastic material – the first recycling friendly zip, this time showcased in one of the ten available colours, you will find Nylon mono-plastic material snaps and also AcroPlating(R), Snaps & Buttons that are environmentally friendly.
There are other options for Snaps & Buttons. There are other buttons that can be linked to sustainability. The screw tack button enables the seperation of metal and fabric at the end-of-life of garments, making it easier to recycle them. The new, bio-based carbon content, new sewing button. It is made from renewable resources and reduces GHG emissions. Finally, a cellulose-based, biodegradable button.
About YKK
Since 1934 when YKK was founded in Tokyo, YKK has set industry standards in quality, service and innovation in zippers, hook and loop fasteners and webbing tapes. YKK has integrated production and supply systems throughout 72 countries and regions. This allows the compay to serve the diverse industries, which are becoming more complex and have shorter product cycles. Guided by the CYCLE OF GOODNESS(R) philosophy – no one prospers without rendering benefit to others – YKK aims to contribute to a sustainable society through its products and manufacturing operations and constantly seeks new ways to serve the changing needs of its customers while at the same time investing in its employees and giving back to its communities.
