More than a line of sustainable apparel and much more than a selection of polos, C-FREETM, or carbon-free, is a testament to SanMar’s commitment to reduce our environmental impact. We recognize that making and selling apparel results in carbon emissions. But with newly-formed partnerships, improvements to the way our products are manufactured and making better choices in our materials, we are embarking on a more sustainable future one recycled tee at a time.
How To Achieve Carbon Neutrality
Carbon neutrality means having a balance between emitting carbon and absorbing carbon from the atmosphere in carbon sinks. Removing carbon oxide from the atmosphere and then storing it is known as carbon sequestration. For humans to achieve net-zero emissions, all worldwide greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions will have to be counterbalanced by carbon sequestration.
Another way to pursue carbon neutrality is to offset emissions made in one area by reducing them somewhere else in the world. This can be done through investment in renewable energy, energy efficiency or other clean, low-carbon technologies.
Our Steps To Carbon Zero
C-FREE products are carbon neutral by the latter method. Our process is simple. We calculate the emissions generated throughout the products’ lifecycle and then purchase offsets that invest in anything from energy efficiency, renewable energy and forestry projects. Our third-party provided offsets are sourced and verified via CarbonFund.Org, an esteemed leader in the fight against climate change.
Now This Is Purchasing Power
The first carbon emissions reduction project has installed wind turbines in India. The project generates power from wind energy and replaces an equivalent amount of power that would otherwise be generated from non-renewable sources. This project has offset our initial C-FREE collections’ carbon footprint to zero.
Meet The First C-FREE Five
Using 100% recycled polyester, our first C-FREE polos start with a lower carbon footprint when compared to conventional polos emissions. The Port Authority C-FREE Snag-Proof Polos and 1/4-Zip are snag proof and they wick moisture. The Port Authority C-FREE Performance Polos resist snags, wick moisture and provide UV protection.
While we’re starting with Port Authority products, C-FREE isn’t brand specific. We want to keep the door open to create C-FREE carbon-neutral styles in our other brands, too. C-FREE helps firmly establish SanMar as the place for carbon-neutral products in our industry. Look for more C-FREE arrivals from your favorite brands this fall.
Our reduction in our environmental impact is just one facet of our bigger initiative to be better, together for good. Learn more about our evolving commitment to our people, the planet and our product and read the highlights from our latest Corporate Responsibility Report.