STRATHBERRY X SUSTAINABILITY
At Strathberry, we acknowledge that our activities have a potential impact on the environment and, therefore, we have a duty to ensure we implement sustainable practices and, as a company, adopt a strategy that is both responsible and ethical.
This is an evolving goal for us and, while we acknowledge that we’re not perfect, we want to make a real difference and contribute proactively to the welfare of our planet and people. We’re learning day by day and we are passionate about sharing our journey with you.
We are truly committed to reducing our environmental impact by working hard to ensure that every aspect of our business incorporates the principles of sustainability and both social and environmental responsibility.
Our Products
Leather
With so much time and care taken to handcraft a Strathberry bag, it is imperative to us as a brand that the leather we use is of the highest standard, has been sourced responsibly and is produced in a sustainable and socially responsible environment.
The majority of our tanneries, based in both Spain and Italy, are in possession of an audited certification from the Leather Working Group (LWG). The Leather Working Group is the number one, globally recognised, auditing body representing responsible leather sourcing to the industry and consumers. Through their LWG accreditation, we can ensure that all these tanneries have been assessed as compliant with environmental best practices within the leather manufacturing industry and are following guidelines for continual improvement. Those not currently in possession of this certification are either in the process of being audited by LWG or possess certifications including UNIC’s Code of Conduct and Social Accountability.
Our products are produced in limited runs and designed to be cherished for years to come. In supporting the independent leather industry and the work of talented and skilled artisans, we aim to promote a more conscious and sustainable approach to fashion
Leeanne Hundleby
Our products are created in small batches and are not mass-produced. Each Strathberry piece takes some of the world’s most talented artisans a minimum of 20 hours to meticulously craft by hand.
Our talented Customer Service team is here to advise on how to look after and, with the correct after care, extend the life of your Strathberry product. Our pieces are designed to be enjoyed season after season. As our Strathberry products are guaranteed for six months from date of purchase, we will ensure to repair or replace your item if there is a proven Quality Control or manufacturing issue.
Cashmere
As a brand, we will never knowingly source raw materials if there have been any concerns over environmental impact, herder wellbeing or animal welfare.
All our Scottish weavers are members of the Sustainable Fibre Alliance, a global initiative, encouraging the adoption of responsible production practices that minimise environmental impact, safeguard herder livelihoods and meet high animal welfare standards. We can track each batch of cashmere, from suppliers in China and Mongolia, to its specific goat farm and de-hairer, ensuring farming methods are sustainable and the ongoing assessment of living conditions for the livestock meet the Bureau of Animal Husbandry guidelines.
Our Chinese knitters work with a supplier which is also a member of the Sustainable Fibre Alliance and sources the best quality cashmere fibres from the Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region. Additionally, as their supplier is a member of The Good Cashmere Standard (an independent standard for sustainable cashmere) they must adhere to a clear and comprehensive set of criteria that govern all aspects of sustainable cashmere production. In doing so, they work to improve the welfare of cashmere goats, the lives of farmers and farming communities.
Silk
We only work with natural materials and our silk supplier is committed to never using synthetic fibres, sourcing only the highest standard of silk from China.
All our intricate silk designs are digitally printed; a technique, which has been proven to be a more environmentally friendly form of textile printing, with the lowest carbon footprint of any of the printing processes. Through digital printing, there is a proven reduction in the use and waste of water, as well as a significant decrease in energy usage, when compared with traditional printing.
All the inks used in the printing process are non-toxic, water-based and, together with the finished product, carry certifications from Oeko-Tex to assure they have been tested for harmful substances and are harmless to human health. While the printing process minimises ink waste, it also ensures the fabrics do not require a post-production treatment, further minimising impact on the environment.
Operations
Sustainability and the impact our company has upon the environment is central to our business practice, and we aim to continually review and improve all our processes. We have a duty to act now and make a difference to safeguard our planet and resources for future generations.
Guy Hundleby
We remain committed to ensuring all internal energy usage throughout our Head Office and retail stores will be provided by a 100% renewable energy provider, and aim to have made all necessary changes by the end of our fiscal year.
In working with a global shipping company, committed to minimising their environmental impact, we hope to minimise our carbon footprint on all deliveries and internal stock movements - both domestic and international.
By conducting annual audits and identifying ongoing opportunities for improvement within our internal operations, we strive to create awareness and encourage sustainable staff practices. We operate and promote an active recycling system, seeking to Reduce, Reuse and Recycle, where possible. We also ensure all our office, retail and production sites are accessible by public transport and actively promote and encourage sustainable travel options to staff.
