The U.S. multinational Ralph Lauren, one of the most iconic fashion companies of the so-called "American lifestyle", confirmed its entry into the capital of Natural Fiber Welding (NFW) in 2020.
This is an emerging company specializing in developing technologies for the manufacture of sustainable textiles from plants and natural and recycled fibers, in which Ralph Lauren has acquired a minority stake.
This transaction strengthens ties and collaboration between the two organizations, whose provisions include Ralph Lauren's contribution to scaling the manufacturing process patented by NFW and the development of its first garment made from natural and sustainable materials.
In collaboration with this organization, the brand also revamped its polo shirt by using 100% cotton fiber obtained from virgin and recycled cotton, which thanks to NFW's latest textile innovations allows it to show qualities as a high-performance fiber similar to those shown by other fibers such as polyester and nylon.
Also a partner of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation, the brand’s collaboration with Natural Fiber Welding isa strategic investment to advance the principles of circularity and sustainability.
Synthetic fabrics are made from fossil fuels and petroleum derivatives, a resource that this new high-performance natural fiber does not need to offer its wide range of improvements, such as quick-drying and enhanced moisture management while offering comfort and breathability of the cotton.
Team USA Collection
Ralph Lauren demonstrated its ongoing commitment to sustainability by unveiling the Team USA uniform for the Beijing 2022 Winter Olympics. Continuing Ralph Lauren's commitment to sustainability, the company worked to use more sustainable materials and manufacturing practices for the closing ceremony parade uniform for the US team for the Winter 2022 Olympics.
The Team USA Closing Ceremony Parade uniform includes a buffalo plaid hooded jacket with recycled polyester and recycled down; fleece pants for men and fleece legging for women, gloves, and boots made from recycled polyester; and an intarsia turtleneck sweater and hat made from RWS (Responsible Wool Standard) certified U.S. grown wool.
Ralph Lauren sources wool from RWS-certified ranches and, by 2025, is committed to using 100% RWS-certified or recycled wool. All uniform garments are proudly made in the USA.
Ralph Lauren has proudly been an official supplier to Team USA since 2008. Unlike most other countries' Olympic and Paralympic teams, U.S. athletes do not receive federal funding. A portion of Ralph Lauren Team USA Collection sales supports the U.S. Olympic and Paralympic teams.
Design the Change
Design the Change, Ralph Lauren Corporation's strategy, is both a commitment and a journey to create a positive impact on society. It is based on our belief that, together with our industry, we can bring about the change necessary for a more sustainable and equitable future for all.
Design the Change is based on commitments that will drive progress in our three focus areas - Creating Timeless Style, Protecting the Environment, and Championing Better Living - and is underpinned by ambitious goals that guide the company's work in citizenship and sustainability.
Ralph Lauren is a signatory to the We Are Still In statement and the UN Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action, committing to limit our emissions in line with the Paris Agreement targets.
The company is also a member of the G7 Fashion Pact, a group of fashion leaders working to stop global warming, restore biodiversity and protect the oceans. For more information, visit the company's website.