Crystal International Group Limited (Hong Kong) has been determined to produce sustainable products for years. To step beyond, Crystal International committed to net zero by 2050 earlier this year. Through participating in the HKQAA pilot Net-Zero Certificate Scheme, Crystal Denim (the denim division of Crystal International) even geared up for producing net zero jeans, enabling the Group to recently achieve the first-ever net zero jeans certified by HKQAA (Hong Kong Quality Assurance Agency), a renowned organisation providing conformity assessment and accreditation services of environmental, quality, social and other management systems. Crystal Denim is the only company piloting this award scheme of achieving product-level net zero (Achievement of Net-Zero Certificate), demonstrating its leading capability in the market on low-carbon denim products manufacturing. Crystal International is also recognised as the Pioneering Organisation in Net-Zero Contribution in the pilot scheme.
The First-ever Net Zero Jeans
Further to the Group’s effort in developing and launching eco-collections, Crystal Denim newly achieved and produced the first net zero jeans (Classic 5-pocket denim jeans). As the first phase of producing net zero products, this net zero jeans set out a foundation to accelerate net zero product development, showing the Group’s capability and determination to move towards net zero commitment. To reach net zero jeans, Crystal Denim adopted the cradle-to-gate product lifecycle assessment for carbon accounting method, which was verified by HKQAA. From the product development stage, the company embraces “Good by Design” concept to design the products with low climate impact, with sustainable materials. In addition, Crystal Denim deployed decarbonisation efforts throughout all manufacturing processes, including the application of laser technology, usage of onsite solar PV system for energy saving, adoption of advanced frontloading washing machines, drying hanger system for pre-drying process and advanced energy-saving dryers. The company further offset residual carbon emissions by supporting a reforestation programme in Nicaragua.
Supply chain collaboration is essential to make net zero jeans happen, special thanks to the upstream and accessories partners for supporting the development of Crystal’s net zero jeans, including Advance Denim for supplying the fabrics and Li Wai Metal Manufactory Ltd for providing sampling of shank button according to the requested composition. “We believe net zero product is achievable. The Achievement of Net-Zero Certificate is our first step to identify the significance of climate impact at each stage of the product lifecycle. We always rethink how a product could create lesser climate impact and how we could adopt more green elements from design to manufacturing stages. We also look forward to collaborating with different fashion brands and supply chain partners to further continue the development of more net zero products,” said Miles Lam, Assistant General Manager, Sales and Business Development of Crystal Denim.
Group-level Commitment to Net-Zero Certificate
In addition to the Achievement of Net-Zero Certificate awarded to Crystal Denim, Crystal International also earned the Commitment to Net-Zero Certificate at the group level, signifying the credibility of the dedicated Crystal Net Zero 2050 vision.
Launch of Net Zero Website
Furthermore, the Group newly rolled out a thematic website for Crystal Net Zero 2050 vision, showcasing the vision, multi-pronged net zero strategy, decarbonisation progress and achievements. The website aims to make known to different stakeholders Crystal’s commitment to net zero emissions by 2050, reinforcing that Crystal International supports actions against climate crisis and contributes to limiting global warming to 1.5°C.
Steadfast commitment on low-carbon production is the key to mitigate climate change. Crystal International will continue to collaborate with other stakeholders and support the decarbonisation progress of suppliers, to drive net zero action within fashion industry.
About Crystal International Group Limited
Crystal International Group Limited (“Crystal International” or the “Company”), incorporated in Bermuda with limited liability and registered by way of continuation in the Cayman Islands, is a global leader in the apparel manufacturing industry. Founded in Hong Kong in 1970, the Company and its subsidiaries (collectively, the “Group”, or “we”) have a diversified product portfolio categorised into five product segments, namely Lifestyle wear, Denim, Intimate, Sweater, and Sportswear and outdoor apparel, with leading positions in corresponding categories. Headquartered in Hong Kong, the Group operates a multi-country manufacturing platform, with around 20 production facilities spanning five countries, namely Vietnam, China, Cambodia, Bangladesh and Sri Lanka.
The Group serves a group of leading global brands, through a highly differentiated “Co-creation” business model, offering value-added services and satisfying our customers through accumulated knowledge of the fashion market, promptness of service and creative innovation. We strive to produce the right products at the right time and at the right cost which is critical component to the success of our customers’ global apparel brands in an ever-changing industry environment. The Group maintains a keen focus on sustainability and was ranked 17th out of 50 in the Fortune business magazine “Change the World” list in 2016. The list recognises companies across the world that have made significant social and environmental contributions.
Please visit Crystal International’s corporate website http://www.crystalgroup.com for more information.
