Sustainability

Frequently Asked Questions

Sustainability & Governance

Q: Does Deane Apparel have a sustainability strategy?

Yes. Our Sustainability Strategy, developed with Go Well and launched in late 2023, outlines nine key impact areas including responsible materials, ethical sourcing, emissions, and community support.

Q: How does Deane monitor sustainability progress?

We track our progress through annual reporting. In December 2024, we completed Year 1 of our 3-year strategy, delivering 59 initiatives. Our Sustainability Progress Report 2025 shares our achievements and learnings.

Environmental Impact

Q: What environmental initiatives is Deane involved in?

We’re proud members of APCO and participate in schemes like Future Post (soft plastic recycling) and Upparel/BlockTexx/ImpacTex (textile recycling). We also run internal waste reduction programmes like our Keep Cup Library.

Q: Does Deane measure and report on environmental performance?

Yes. We measure and report annually on carbon emissions, water and energy use, waste generation, and packaging volumes. Our goals include becoming carbon positive by 2028 and ensuring 100% sustainable packaging by 2025..

Q: What steps has Deane taken to reduce packaging waste?

We’ve removed 72,000 single-use plastic bags, transitioned to recycled materials, and introduced sustainable packaging standards including recycled cardboard wraps and swing tickets.

Q: How is Deane reducing transport-related emissions?

We’ve mapped our emissions and developed a carbon reduction plan. Freight transport accounts for 93.6% of our emissions, and we’re actively exploring ways to reduce airfreight.

Production & Materials

Q: What is Deane doing to improve fabric sustainability?

We aim for 100% of our fabrics to be recycled, organic, or traceable by 2028. Trials with recycled polyester are underway, targeting a 47% transition from virgin polyester by end of 2025.

Q: How does Deane minimise water and energy use in production?

We work with suppliers who follow our Environmental Policy, which sets standards for responsible water and energy management.

Diversity & Inclusion

Q: Does Deane work with diverse and Indigenous suppliers?

Yes. We’re members of Supply Nation and partner with Outback Global, an Indigenous supplier. We also collaborate with social enterprises like Reemi to support menstrual health initiatives.

Ethical Supply Chain & Modern Slavery

Q: How does Deane ensure ethical practices in its supply chain?

All Tier 1 factories are audited via the Working Conditions Assessment (WCA) and have signed our Code of Conduct. We conduct supplier screenings and maintain a Modern Slavery Policy.

Q: Who oversees modern slavery risk at Deane?

Our Supply Chain team, led by our Divisional Manager, manages compliance and audits. Our Supply Managers assesses new suppliers, and provides on-site oversight and quality control.

Q: Are Deane staff trained on modern slavery awareness?

Yes. All staff complete induction training covering our Code of Conduct and business ethics. Ongoing learning is part of our compliance framework.

Q: How does Deane respond to modern slavery allegations?

Any breach of the WCA audit disqualifies supplier engagement. Corrective Action Plans are enforced based on severity, with strict timelines for resolution.