Norrøna issues response to Greenpeace criticism
14/07/2016
In its response, the Oslo-based brand acknowledged “the challenge of PFCs in outdoor clothing” and said it aims to eliminate PFCs from its products by the end of 2020. It also said it remains committed to publishing its progress towards these targets on its website. It pointed out that it has become a bluesign system partner and that 87% of the fabrics it uses have been third-party certified to ensure sustainability.
“We are dedicated to make the best outdoor products available in a sustainable and safe manner,” the company said. “Both Norrøna and our suppliers are working to find a PFC-free DWR (durable water repellant) to treat our garments with.”
On the subject of air samples, it emphasised the seriousness with which it takes the health and wellbeing of employees. Then it went on to say that it has observed discrepancies between the findings of Greenpeace studies and the findings that have emerged from independent studies it has commissioned itself, working with the Norwegian Institute for Air Research and testing agency Intertek, for example.
“We will take a closer look at the methods and results used and presented by Greenpeace to evaluate the need to conduct an independent study to get a proper foundation, accurately evaluate the situation and decide on the possible actions to take,” Norrøna said.
In conclusion, the outdoor brand pointed out that it has seen research suggesting that, at worst, only 8.2% of people’s exposure to PFCs is likely to come from the air we breathe, with other sources, including food, also contributing.
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