SMI ESG Strategy - Flipbook - Page 30
WORKING WITH ROKWEAR
This innovative global brand is at the forefront of
the market, providing SMI with an exclusive brand
of durable and affordable workwear and safety
products. As a key component within SMI’s value
chain the sustainable vision for Rokwear is aligned
with our own to become the leading sustainable
workwear provider. Rokwear commitment to lowering
its ecological footprint follows the ESG framework,
focusing on carbon emissions, plastic consumption,
ethical practices, and accountability. In recent years
these key areas have been analysed and innovative
solutions and changes have been implemented.
We are focused on our ecological footprint
including the materials used in our product
packaging. The fact that plastic is not easily
biodegradable and takes hundreds, if not
thousands of years to break down is common
knowledge. With a worldwide movement set in
place across businesses and consumers to reduce
the level of plastic consumed. In line with this
Rokwear are focusing on reducing the amount of
plastic used in their products packaging, starting
off with replacing the plastic used for Rokwear
gloves with cardboard packaging. Cardboard
is 100% recyclable and biodegradable, and the
manufacturing process requires 60% less carbon
emissions in comparison to other materials. This
makes cardboard one of the most environmentally
friendly materials, helping to improve the positive
impact Rokwear can have.
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We are committed to understanding our
logistics including Rokwear products which are
manufactured in 14 factories worldwide, this
supply chain is mapped across countries in Asia
and are imported to Southampton in the UK before
reaching their destination at SMI’s distribution
centre in Fareham. The emissions associated with
the transport of these products was a significant
percentage of Rokwear’s carbon footprint and
presented a challenge regarding the business’s
sustainable goals. In response to this Rokwear
looked at manufacturing facilities in Europe and
have successfully moved to a factory in Italy and
Turkey, reducing the distance travelled and the
amount of carbon emissions associated with the
transportation of these goods.
ENVIRONMENTAL I SOCIAL I GOVERNANCE