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The Adidas Sustainability Report 2025 hasn’t been released yet, but based on recent public disclosures, verified climate targets, and game-changing product innovation, we have a strong sense of what it may include.
A detailed look at Adidas’ progress through 2024 reveals key efforts that are likely to shape its 2025 sustainability narrative. From reducing virgin plastics and lowering emissions to pioneering circular footwear, Adidas continues to set a high bar for the sportswear industry.
In this article, we explore what to expect in the Adidas Sustainability Report 2025, drawing directly from verified initiatives and sustainability milestones.
Adidas’ Sustainability Strategy: Leading with Purpose
Scope, Focus, and Transparency
Adidas structures its sustainability strategy around six key areas: nature, climate action, circularity, human rights, materials, and supply chain. These aren’t buzzwords, they’re actionable pillars that influence everything from product design to packaging.
One standout move? Adidas is aiming for a 70% reduction in greenhouse gas emissions by 2030, using 2022 as its baseline. These goals are backed by the Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi) and CDP ratings, showing Adidas’ commitment to third-party accountability.
Real Progress: Adidas’ Sustainability Milestones from 2020–2025
- 2020 – Launch of the Futurecraft Loop, a performance running shoe designed to be remade endlessly.
- 2022 – Pledged to become climate neutral in operations by 2025.
- 2023 – Rolled out the Made to Be Remade and global take back programs.
- 2025 – Target to use 90% low-impact materials across all products.
These aren’t hypothetical changes, many are already in play.
Material Innovation & Circular Design
Adidas has made serious strides in material innovation. The Parley for the Oceans partnership, for example, turns millions of plastic bottles into footwear. Other advances include:
- Nearly all new polyester used by Adidas is recycled.
- Use of bbio-based leather alternatives and low-impact dyes.
- Plastic-free packaging is becoming the norm.
These innovations help reduce Adidas’ overall environmental footprint, both upstream in manufacturing and downstream with end-of-life impact.
Strategic Partnerships
Adidas is not going it alone. They’re working with leading climate and fashion bodies such as:
- SBTi (Science-Based Targets initiative)
- CDP Climate Ratings
- Parley for the Oceans
- Better Cotton Initiative
- Canopy
- Fashion Industry Charter for Climate Action
These partnerships reinforce Adidas’ position within a larger global sustainability framework.
What Needs Work
Even with all these achievements, Adidas acknowledges gaps:
- Takeback programs are still geographically limited.
- Transparency in supply chain emissions (Scope 3) is still a challenge, particularly with third-party verification.
- Fast fashion tension: While Adidas is moving toward sustainability, mass production still carries environmental costs.
What Your Business Can Learn from Adidas
Whether you run a startup or a large organization, Adidas offers clear sustainability lessons:
1. Embed Sustainability into Product Development
Make it part of your DNA, not just a marketing tool.
2. Partner with the Best
Collaborate with existing sustainability organizations in your sector.
3. Experiment with Circularity
Offer repairs, resales, or take back programs to extend product life.
4. Share Your Progress
Start with a baseline. Be honest. Progress, not perfection, earns trust.
Ready to Apply These Ideas to Your Business?
Inspired by Adidas’ sustainability journey? Whether you’re just starting to explore ESG or ready to scale your impact strategy, This Rock ESG is here to help.
We work with brands to build credible, scalable sustainability programs, from net-zero planning and material strategy to circularity and ESG storytelling.
Whether you’re new to sustainability or ready to scale, we can help.
FAQs
What is Adidas sustainability report 2025 goals?
Adidas is targeting climate-neutral operations and aims to use 90% low-impact materials across all products by 2025. These goals are expected to be key highlights in the upcoming Adidas Sustainability Report 2025.
How is Adidas addressing plastic waste?
Adidas combats plastic waste through recyclable footwear designs and by reusing ocean plastic via its long-standing Parley for the Oceans partnership.
What organizations support Adidas’ sustainability claims?
Adidas aligns with global standards by partnering with CDP, Science-Based Targets initiative (SBTi), the Better Cotton Initiative, and others to ensure third-party validation of its environmental goals.
