Wild Country
Our Rating: 3 Stars - It's a start
Price: $ $ $ $
Country of origin: Italy
Official brand website: Visit
Wild Country: A Brand Working Towards Sustainability
Wild Country, owned by Oberalp Group, is a brand that values sustainability and strives to make a positive impact on the environment. As a leading manufacturer in the outdoor industry, the brand focuses on creating products that are not only high quality but also sustainable. In this article, we will explore Wild Country’s efforts to promote sustainability and improve its environmental practices.
Planet: Not Good Enough
When it comes to environmental policies in their supply chains, Wild Country has some areas for improvement. Their current rating in this category is “Not Good Enough”. Let’s take a closer look at a few factors influencing this score.
- Lower-Impact Materials: Wild Country uses few lower-impact materials in its products. While this is a step in the right direction, there is still room for improvement to further reduce the brand’s environmental footprint.
- Biodiversity Protection: Unfortunately, there is no evidence that Wild Country is taking actions to protect biodiversity in its supply chain. This is an important aspect that the brand should consider to minimize its impact on ecosystems and wildlife.
- Renewable Energy: Wild Country uses renewable energy in its direct operations, such as stores or offices. However, it does not extend this practice to its supply chain. Encouraging the use of renewable energy throughout its entire production process could significantly reduce the brand’s carbon emissions.
- Hazardous Chemicals: The brand currently lacks meaningful action to reduce or eliminate hazardous chemicals in its manufacturing process. Implementing safer alternatives and stricter regulations can help protect both the environment and the health of its workers.
People: It’s a Start
Wild Country recognizes the importance of workers’ rights and has made some progress in this area. Its current rating in the “People” category is “It’s a Start”. Here are a few factors influencing this score:
- Certification and Code of Conduct: Most of Wild Country’s final production stage is certified by the Business Social Compliance Initiative Code of Conduct or Fair Wear Foundation. This ensures that workers are treated fairly and their rights are respected.
- Workers’ Rights: The brand’s Code of Conduct covers the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Four Fundamental Freedoms principles, which protect workers’ rights around the world.
- Diversity and Inclusion: There is currently no evidence that Wild Country supports diversity and inclusion in its supply chain. Embracing diversity and creating an inclusive work environment is essential for fostering equality.
- Living Wages: While the brand claims to have a program to improve wages, there is no evidence that workers in most of its supply chain are paid living wages. Ensuring fair wages for all workers should be a priority for Wild Country.
- COVID-19 Response: During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, Wild Country disclosed adequate policies to protect workers in its supply chain from the virus. This demonstrates the brand’s commitment to the well-being of its workers.
Animals: Good
Wild Country scores well in terms of animal welfare policies and the sourcing of animal-derived products. Its current rating in the “Animals” category is “Good”. Here are a few factors influencing this score:
- Animal-Derived Materials: The brand uses few animal-derived materials in its products, minimizing its impact on animals.
- Animal Welfare Policy: While there is no evidence of a specific animal welfare policy, Wild Country does have a policy to source wool from non-mulesed sheep. This indicates a commitment to ethical sourcing practices.
- Avoidance of Harmful Materials: Wild Country does not use leather, down, fur, angora, exotic animal skin, or exotic animal hair in its products. This further exemplifies the brand’s dedication to animal welfare.
Overall Rating: It’s a Start
Based on all publicly available information reviewed, Wild Country receives an overall rating of “It’s a Start”. While the brand has taken steps towards sustainability, there is still work to be done in various areas.
Wild Country should focus on using more lower-impact materials, protecting biodiversity in its supply chain, and implementing renewable energy practices throughout its operations and supply chain. Additionally, it should prioritize the reduction and elimination of hazardous chemicals in its manufacturing processes.
In terms of workers’ rights, Wild Country should continue to improve wage conditions and prioritize the support of diversity and inclusion in its supply chain. Strengthening these areas will contribute to a more equitable and fair work environment.
Furthermore, Wild Country should consider developing a comprehensive animal welfare policy to ensure the ethical treatment of animals throughout its supply chain. This will strengthen the brand’s commitment to sustainability and animal welfare.
Overall, Wild Country is moving in the right direction and is dedicated to making positive changes in terms of sustainability. With continued efforts and improvements, Wild Country has the potential to become a leader in the outdoor industry by prioritizing the environment, people, and animal welfare.
