The greatest contribution to environmental protection that we can make as a company is in the development and production of our products. Here is where we can put selective measures into action...
Eco Audit – VAUDE has voluntarily complied with monitoring by independent environmental experts
The Eco Audit, also known as EMAS – the Eco-Management and Audit Scheme, was introduced by the European Union.
When undertaking an Eco Audit, a company implements a thoroughly structured environmental management plan. The audit itself is designed to monitor and improve companies’ environmental performance. As the first European Outdoor company, VAUDE has voluntarily complied with monitoring by independent environmental experts. An independent verifier checks the VAUDE environmental management plan. VAUDE has successfully completed the audit and is now a proud owner of the EMAS certificate: We have used the audit as a chance for ongoing improvements and have committed ourselves to reaching far beyond the bare minimum of legal environmental compliance. The EMAS verifier, Dr. Udo Ammon, highly praised the VAUDE Eco Audit: „The implementation of EMAS at VAUDE is exemplary. Particulary impressive is that the commitment of all involved doesn’t stop at the company’s doorstep. It can also be seen in VAUDE’s innovative products and their deep environmental commitment to nature - a place worthy of our protection.“
bluesign® – VAUDE was the first sports gear manufacturer to adapt its production to this stringent environmental standard
bluesign® is an independent, international quality standard. It guarantees ecologically compatible textiles, environmentally friendly production processes and resource conservation. In bluesign® products, components and processes that are completely harmless while conserving resources to the greatest possible extent are exclusively used. The entire production chain is strictly controlled. Only those products and companies that fulfill the strict conditions of bluesign® are given the blue label.
VAUDE recognized the value of the powerful bluesign® concept long ago. In 2002, we were the first manufacturer in the sports sector to produce an entire product line (Base Layer) under this standard. We were also the first European outdoor supplier to become an official member of bluesign®. With this membership (since 2008), VAUDE is supporting sustainability in other product areas as well. Here at VAUDE, taking on responsibility for the environment hasn’t been a result of competitive pressure – it has emerged out of deep personal conviction. People with sensitive skin or allergies are still benefiting today from our Base Layer Collection with the bluesign® label.
BaumInvest – VAUDE invests in sustainable forestry
BaumInvest promotes the reforestation of rain forests in Costa Rica. Using ecological and socially responsible methods, the rain forests are being reforested with high quality woods in a mixed forest covering while also creating ecological agriculture. The region’s farmers can plant their own crops between the rows of trees and then market their harvest with the help of BaumInvest. Additionally, nature reserves are being created without human interference, so that native flora and fauna can develop freely in areas established by BaumInvest. We at VAUDE have been impressed with BaumInvest since its beginnings, which is why we participated as a founding member in the initiative. With this partnership, VAUDE is making a contribution to climate protection by actively compensating for its CO2 emissions.
Photovoltaic Installation – VAUDE produces green electricity
VAUDE’s photovoltaic installation produces renewable energy. Solar panels that are often seen on housetops turn solar radiation into electrical energy. This photovoltaic conversion is a good method for winning alternative energy.
VAUDE, too, uses this method to produce eco-electricity. All buildings suitable for solar panels at the company’s headquarters in Obereisenbach and at the company headquarters of our brand partner EDELRID in Isny are having photovoltaic panels installed. VAUDE has over 2,200 solar panels covering a surface of more than 1,700 square meters to date. By the end of 2008, the entire process will be finished with approximately 2,800 square meters of solar panels (including EDELRID). 70 4-person households could be supplied with electricity for one year from the amount produced – 275,000 kilowatt hours. Just one more way that we here at VAUDE are making a significant contribution to the sustainable conservation of natural resources for climate protection.
Cocona® – VAUDE uses ecological material technology for performance clothing
Cocona® is a natural fabric technology that produces performance fibers incorporating activated carbon particles. These activated carbon particles are extracted from coconut shells using an environmentally friendly process (natural technologyTM) and permanently embedded within the fiber. This ecological technology can be used with different fibers, such as cotton, polyester or nylon.
VAUDE particularly benefits from Cocona®, because features such as temperature regulation, odor management and UV protection are always needed in performance apparel and gear. We count on Cocona® in all four product lines. Apparel that contains these valuable fibers is labeled accordingly.
TENCEL® – VAUDE uses natural, sustainably produced fibers
TENCEL® is a fiber that is up to 100% biodegradable. It’s made from wood – a renewable resource - that comes from sustainable forests. The international PEFC seal of approval (Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification schemes) und FSC (Forest Stewardship Council) confirm that the wood used to make TENCEL® is produced from environmentally responsible forestry. TENCEL® is used in many fields and is for example also a great choice for baby clothing. VAUDE uses this ecological fiber in specially labeled apparel from the “Mountain” and “Trek & Trail” product lines.
