Making our products more sustainable
Circularity starts with design. That is why our R&D and purchasing teams receive regular training on sustainability. The principles of eco-design and the impact of the materials we use, such as cotton and polyester, two of the most commonly used raw materials in our work clothing, are critically examined.
Raw materials strategy
At Tricorp we are taking big steps towards a more sustainable future. We have set ambitious targets for the use of our most important raw materials. The switch to organic and recycled materials is a crucial step. With this we not only want to make our sector more sustainable, but also reduce our CO₂ emissions and water consumption, and make more use of clean energy.
Since 2023, we have been developing collections that align with this raw materials strategy. Our design process is also becoming increasingly sustainable: thanks to the use of 3D patterns and virtual fitting moments, we can greatly reduce the number of physical samples. This not only saves time and materials, but also reduces our ecological footprint.
We ultimately strive to provide insight into the environmental impact of all our items via an impact sheet. When the environmental impact of a product is known, you will see a download to this Life Cycle Assessment at the bottom of the product page.
Certifications and quality marks
On the way to a fully sustainable chain, we not only want to offer maximum transparency, but also demonstrate that we are actually making progress. That is why we have obtained various certifications.
With our policy on harmful substances, we actively limit their use in our chain. We use our own RSL and MRSL, based on leading guidelines such as ZDHC (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals) and Modint. In addition, we rely on strict certifications such as OEKO-TEX® Standard 100, OCS, GRS and RCS to ensure the safety of materials and processes.
OCS certification: organic cotton
Organic cotton farming uses environmentally friendly methods that keep the soil healthy and respect the ecosystem. This approach uses less water and energy, and contributes to lower CO₂ emissions.
That is why we are increasingly replacing conventional cotton with organic cotton, with an OCS certification. With this type of cotton, every link in the chain, from the farmer to the sewing factory, has been checked and certified according to strict sustainability criteria.
GRS certification: recycled materials
We are increasingly replacing conventional materials such as polyester and polyamide with recycled raw materials. At the moment we mainly work with recycled PET, but our goal is to switch to post-consumer recycled textiles in the future.
We also prefer GRS-certified options for recycled materials. This quality mark guarantees that every link in the chain, from the recycling company to the final supplier, meets strict social, environmental and chemical standards
RCS certification: recycled raw materials
We ensure that traceability of recycled raw materials is guaranteed throughout the entire production chain. This guarantees transparency and involvement of all links within the production chain.
When producing our work clothing, we prefer materials that are RCS certified. This quality mark confirms that the recycled material can be reliably tracked throughout the entire production chain.
OEKOTEX-10: safe and responsible production
At Tricorp we are OEKO-TEX® certified for our products. This means that we can demonstrate that these garments have been produced safely and responsibly. This fits within our broader sustainability ambition and the pursuit of transparency in our chain.
In 2024 we will provide the last articles with a PFAS-free finish. This makes the entire range PFAS-free, with the exception of a few multi-standard items where this is not yet technically possible.
UPV
Since July 1, 2023, Tricorp has been legally responsible for the textile waste that we put on the market. In collaboration with the UPV Textiel Foundation, we are building a national collection system and setting clear goals for reuse and recycling.
The UPV Textiel Foundation connects municipalities, collectors, recyclers and clothing brands to give used clothing a new life. An important step towards a circular textile chain.
Packaging
At Tricorp we are aware of the impact of packaging waste and are constantly looking for the best and most responsible solutions. That is why we consciously choose a plastic shipping bag, developed with sustainability in mind. This shipping bag is made from at least 80% recycled consumer waste. Thanks to the sturdy quality and handy return strip, the bag can be used several times. Is he finally at the end of his life? Then it is 100% recyclable.
We also use FSC-certified cardboard boxes, sourced from responsibly managed forests. This takes people, nature and the environment into account. The boxes are extra sturdy, making them ideal for reuse. These boxes are also 100% recyclable.
Want to know more about our shipping boxes? Then read here further.
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