BELLA+CANVAS 2024 impact report: key sustainability milestones in people, planet, and product
BELLA+CANVAS, a leader in sustainable apparel manufacturing, has demonstrated its commitment to transparency and responsibility through its inaugural Impact Report for 2024, outlining 2024 performance metrics and goals across its three sustainability pillars: People, Planet, and Product. This report highlights the company’s significant strides in reducing its environmental footprint, supporting its workforce, and contributing to the communities in which it operates. The company’s mission is to integrate social and environmental considerations into every aspect of its operations, setting a new standard in the apparel industry.
People: Fostering Ethical and Inclusive Practices
BELLA+CANVAS has placed a strong emphasis on its workforce, ensuring ethical practices throughout its supply chain. In 2024, the company achieved Fair Labor Association (FLA) accreditation, reflecting its dedication to worker rights. The company has also developed comprehensive training programs, ensuring that employees are well-equipped to meet the challenges of a rapidly evolving industry.
The company’s commitment to employee well-being goes beyond compliance with labor standards, offering mental health programs, family planning benefits, and on-site health services. With over 59,000 health clinic visits and 15,000 hours of training in 2024, BELLA+CANVAS has created a supportive environment for its workforce. The organization also celebrated its first-ever People Day, where employees participated in wellness and sustainability programs.
Planet: Advancing Environmental Stewardship
BELLA+CANVAS’ environmental efforts have laid a strong foundation for a sustainable future. In 2024, the company completed its first greenhouse gas (GHG) inventory and lifecycle assessment, establishing clear metrics to track its environmental impact. The company’s climate strategy includes investments in renewable energy projects across its facilities in Maryland and Nicaragua, with a focus on reducing GHG emissions and energy consumption.
Notable achievements include a 51% reduction in textile waste during production and a 33% decrease in water use compared to conventional alternatives. The company also partnered with Altus on a 1.1 MWh solar project in Maryland, which, when completed in 2025, will power local communities with renewable energy. These actions reflect BELLA+CANVAS’ ongoing commitment to environmental stewardship.
Product: Sustainability in Design and Production
Product innovation remains a key area of focus for BELLA+CANVAS. The company’s EcoMax Tee, made from 100% recycled materials, is a prime example of how sustainability can be integrated into fashion. The product has earned Global Recycled Standard (GRS) certification, validating the company’s efforts to reduce waste and minimize its environmental impact.
Additionally, BELLA+CANVAS has made significant strides in chemical management, ensuring that all materials and processes comply with strict environmental standards like bluesign® certification. The company also emphasizes the importance of water-efficient dyeing processes, using advanced technology to reduce water consumption by half compared to older methods.
Community Engagement and Philanthropy
BELLA+CANVAS’ community engagement initiatives further highlight its commitment to social responsibility. In 2024, the company donated over $500,000 in monetary and in-kind contributions, including support for refugee children through UNHCR. The company also organized tree planting and health fairs in Central America and Los Angeles, contributing to local reforestation efforts and providing vital healthcare services to underserved communities.
Through these initiatives, BELLA+CANVAS demonstrates that corporate success is not only about profit but also about making a positive impact on society and the environment.
