The health and well‐being of our consumers ‐‐ and the sustainability of the planet ‐‐ are of the utmost concern to Timberland. We work diligently to ensure that our products and manufacturing processes reflect this commitment.
Responsible Chemistry
In 2011, when Timberland was acquired by VF Corporation, we adopted VF’s comprehensive policy related to responsible chemistry and restricted substances. We are pleased to continue our proactive efforts in this area, through VF’s leadership. These policies can be found here: http://responsiblesourcing.vfc.com/policies‐and‐standards/
Under these policies, manufacturers and suppliers of Timberland® products and components are given a list of chemicals that are restricted, prohibited from use in Timberland products, or have been identified for phase‐out. In accordance with this program, Chromium 6 is prohibited from use in the manufacture of Timberland products. We monitor compliance with this program through regular testing of materials and/or products by third party independent laboratories.
Environmental Responsiblity
Since 2010, Timberland has had a policy to only source leather from tanneries that achieve either silver or gold certification from the Leather Working Group, an independent group of tanneries, brands and chemical suppliers that has worked to develop and maintain a protocol to assess the environmental compliance and performance capabilities of tanneries, and to promote sustainable and appropriate environmental business practices within the leather industry. LWG certification is awarded to tanneries that demonstrate environmental best practices and performance in all areas of leather production, from chemical and water management to energy use, greenhouse gas emissions, waste management and hide traceability. More information on the Leather Working Group can be found at www.leatherworkinggroup.com.
Progress toward Timberland’s goals to source leather from silver and gold rated tanneries can be viewed at https://www.timberland.com/responsibility.html
Tanneries from which we source leather must be audited by the Leather Working Group at least once every 18 to 24 months. Additionally, Timberland bans the use of hides from certain countries or regions where we have learned of animal husbandry or animal welfare concerns.
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