YKK SUSTAINABILITY VISION 2050

YKK Sustainability Vision 2050

In October 2020, we formulated the YKK Sustainability Vision 2050 which sets numerical targets for the Fastening Business from the 2019 YKK Group Environmental Vision 2050. As part of this, we have set targets under five themes: climate change, material resources, water resources, chemical management, and respect people, and are carrying out activities that will contribute to achievement of the 2030 SDGs as well as carbon neutrality by 2050.

climate change
  • Tackle GHG emissions
  • Increase use of renewable energy
7 Affordable and Clean Energy
13 Climate Action

In order to combat global climate change, YKK commits to greenhouse gas emissions reduction targets that are required to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement—to limit global warming to well below 2°C above pre-industrial levels and pursue efforts to limit warming to 1.5°C.

GOALS
  • Reduce emissions of CO2 and other greenhouse gases in our company and supply chain.

    SCOPE 1,2 50% reduction by 2030 (from a 2018 baseline year)

    SCOPE 3 30% reduction by 2030 (from a 2018 baseline year)

  • Be carbon neutral by 2050.
  • Reduce energy consumption through improved manufacturing and auxiliary equipment efficiency, streamlined operations and processes.
  • By 2019, stop the construction of new facilities using coal. By 2030, abolish all coal use in YKK facilities.
  • Install renewable power sources at YKK-owned facilities for power generation where feasible.
  • Reduce our Scope 2 emissions by purchasing renewable energy where possible.
  • Reduce our Scope 3 emissions by switching to 100% sustainable textile materials by 2030.
material resources
  • Increase use of sustainable materials
12 Responsible Consumption and Production

YKK will reduce waste and the use of petroleum derived materials throughout the lifecycle of our Fastening products. We will contribute to the transition to a circular society by eliminating production and plastic waste and developing products designed for circularity.

GOALS
  • By 2030, switch to 100% sustainable textile materials (recycled materials, naturally-derived materials, etc.)
  • By 2030, replace all vinyl/plastic packaging materials with sustainable packaging, including recyclable / reusable forms.
  • Reduce the amount of waste to be landfilled or incinerated at all production sites.
  • By 2030, increase the waste recycling rate to 90%.
water resources
  • Reduce water use and manage wastewater
6 Clean Water and Sanitation

To combat serious water resource depletion and degradation, YKK will reduce its water intakes and strictly manage wastewater.

GOALS
  • We will reduce our water intake through efficient usage, the development of new water saving production methods, and the increased recycling of wastewater.
  • Strictly manage wastewater at all manufacturing sites in accordance with Government regulations and YKK inhouse standards established based on industry standards such as ZDHC* (Zero Discharge of Hazardous Chemicals).
chemical management
  • Manage and reduce chemical usage
14 Life Below Water
15 Life On Land

To ensure a healthy environment for future generations, YKK will reduce the environmental impact caused by chemicals used in the manufacture of our products.

GOALS
  • Manage and further reduce the use of chemical substances in product manfacturing from input to output in accordance with our own standards (YKK Restricted Substance List), which was established based on industry standards such as ZDHC* MRSL (Manufacturing Restricted Substances List)
  • Our finished products meets international textile safety standards such as OEKO-TEX® STANDARD 100 ensuring they are free of harmful substances.
  • Develop new production methods that reduce and eliminate the use of toxic chemicals.
respect people
  • Uphold human rights and ensure fair,
    safe work environments
5 Gender Equality
8 Decent Work and Economic Growth
10 Reduced Inequalities
16 Peace, Justice and Strong Institutions

YKK believes in the universal philosophy of respecting the dignity and rights of all human beings and is committed to contributing to a diverse and sustainable society.

GOALS
  • By valuing diversity, being inclusive, respecting human rights, and improving the work environment, we will create better and safe workplaces throughout our supply chains. We will ensure that each individual can work with peace of mind, make the most of his or her individuality, and lead a healthy and happy life.
  • Implement YGCC audit (YKK Global Criteria of Compliance), a comprehensive standard based upon YKK’s “Cycle of Goodness” philosophy and the ISO26000 guidelines, at YKK Group facilities. Periodic evaluations by 3rd party auditors are conducted to assure transparency and improvement of sustainable practices.