SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY & SUSTAINABILITY
Fair, Safe and Conscientious
Our goal is to minimise and prevent negative environmental impacts resulting from how we produce New Balance Industrial footwear whilst also ensuring that the people who make our products are fairly compensated and work in a safe environment.
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Responsible Supply Chain
Our suppliers commit to abiding by the basic standards and expectations as listed in New Balance's Code of Conduct. The Code of Conduct is based on international laws such as the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and the International Labor Organization (ILO)'s Core Conventions as well as national and local laws. Our suppliers have also passed a social and environmental compliance audit.
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Dignity and Respect
Our suppliers must respect the right of employees to freedom of association and collective bargaining while also developing and implementing effective grievance mechanisms to resolve workplace disputes. Employees are interviewed (anonymously) to ensure workplaces are free of discriminatory behaviour and harassment.
Fire Safety
Our suppliers are required to be very diligent with fire safety. Supplier facilities are inspected for fire hazards and other safety concerns. Facilities are checked for functional fire alarms and extinguishing equipment and that they maintain unobstructed exits and evacuation paths. Suppliers are also checked for 'fire readiness' with evacuation plans examined and staff training assessed.
Chemical Management
New Balance has an extensive Restricted Substance program designed to protect the environment where products are made, the health of workers in the manufacturing facilities and the health of the wearer. The program is designed to drive safer and more sustainable chemical choices. New Balance's Restricted Substances Manual incorporates legislation and regulations covering the US, Europe, Japan, China and other countries, along with California's Proposition 65.
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Waste Management
Our suppliers are monitored for correct waste disposal. Suppliers must identify, prioritize and understand the significant environmental impacts of their operations with a qualified staff member designated to oversee the facility's efforts to improve environmental performance. Waste disposal must take place via officially authorised waste and recycling contractors. Any hazardous waste must be treated and not landfilled.
Continuous Improvement
We engage third party supply chain and sustainability consulting services to design, build and manage data driven projects to improve our suppliers with programs built around baseline reviews, collaborative goal setting, regular attendance for advisory services, analytics and assessment that drive positive impact.
Best Practice Materials
We only work with materials that can meet our high standards and "Fair, Safe and Conscientious" objectives. For instance, our leather is traceable and assessed for environmental compliance to promote sustainable environmental practices including minimising energy and water use.