The North Face has dared to lead the world forward through exploration for more than 50 years. We’ve helped push the boundaries of discovery and inspired people to have the curiosity and drive to do the same.
We’re all too aware the world is changing, and much more than exploration is threatened. The outdoor playgrounds and communities which we all love, learn from and live in are in danger of being lost forever. We believe it’s our mission to protect these places.
In 1989, we were founding members of The Conservation Alliance, an organisation that has helped protect more than 50 million acres of wild land, 2,991 miles of river and removed or halted 29 dams. As a sustaining member of European Outdoor Conservation Association (EOCA) we have directed vital funds and given support to projects that conserve wild places and critical ecosystems to re-balance the outdoors.
For more than a decade The North Face Explore Fund has donated millions in grants to non-profit organisations that help build equity in the outdoors and connect communities to foster greater understanding of the world around us.
Our European headquarters is LEED platinum certified and 75% of our facilities in Europe are run on renewable energy – a figure we aim to make 100% in just five years’ time.
Along with other brands in the VF Corporation family, we’re committed to Science Based Targets that align with the goals set out in the Paris Agreement. To reach these targets we’re committed to transitioning our key materials to more sustainable alternatives with a goal of transitioning 100% of our polyester, and 80% of nylon to recycled alternatives by 2025.
We recognise our mission is challenging, complex and requires commitment and discipline. Yet we also recognise the opportunity to take huge leaps on this journey and the important milestones that lie ahead.
That’s why today we’ve put our name to the letter penned by Protect Our Winters Europe. Joining athletes, other brands, businesses and organisations in the outdoor industry to urge European leaders to take action on climate change and set a target for carbon emission reduction of 65% by 2030 – going beyond the expected figure of 55%.
With the damaging effects of climate change clear for all to see, the need to reduce carbon emissions has never been greater. By setting this ambitious but very achievable target, Europe will become the first region with commitments compatible with the Paris Agreement and once again continue to lead the way in the fight against climate change.
This single decision has the power to shape the future of our planet and protect some of its natural wonders for generations to come. We recognise the need for all of us to take action, to not wait to be told, to lead by example and set our own standards – we just hope our leaders will do the same.
Read the full letter from Protect Our Winters Europe to European leaders below.
