H&M partners with WWF

H&M has entered a three-year global partnership with WWF to develop a water strategy that will seep into its whole supple chain.“This partnership marks an evolution in the corporate approach to water. H&M understands that its long-term success depends on access to adequate water supplies. It also understands that its social license to operate depends on being a good neighbour and good steward of shared resources,” said Jim Leape, director general of WWF International.“H&M’s water strategy is an integral part of its business plan, and we hope other companies will be inspired to take the same approach.”The strategy will be implemented across all of H&M’s 48 national markets, touching all 750 direct suppliers, designers, buyers and numerous fabric manufacturers with issues dealing with water management – such as the its impact on raw material production, wet processes for different styles and sustainable living.The execution will be carried out by almost 1,000 H&M staff in buying offices, production and sales.“Water is a key resource for H&M, and we are committed to ensure water is used responsibly throughout our value chain. We do this to minimise risks in our operations, protect the environment and to secure availability of water,” said Karl-Johan Persson, CEO of H&M.Last year, the fashion brand and WWF derived a plan based on a comprehensive evaluation of all H&M’s efforts and challenges in relation to water; they will also work with other public policy makers, NGOs and water institutions to better its river basin stakeholders in China and Bangladesh.