#London #United Kingdom #Schneider Electric #Marks & Spencer #RE:Spark

Marks & Spencer's RE:Spark Initiative

In an impressive move towards sustainability, Marks & Spencer (M&S) has launched the RE:Spark initiative. This new program is designed to accelerate renewable energy adoption throughout the company’s global supply chain. This launch was announced in tandem with Schneider Electric’s Innovation Summit North America, where over 2,500 industry leaders gathered to discuss scalable solutions for a greener future. The collaboration aims not only to enhance M&S’s operations but also to catalyze wider industry changes.

A Vision for Sustainability

M&S’s RE:Spark initiative aligns with its broader Plan A sustainability strategy, which aims for net-zero emissions across its value chain by 2040. According to Katharine Beacham, Head of Sustainability and Materials at M&S, the initiative represents a commitment to embed sustainability deeper into their business practices. Beacham stated, “We believe sustainability should be in everything we do, from sourcing products to supporting our suppliers.” This collaborative approach brings suppliers into the fold, emphasizing that real change happens when companies work together.

Key Features of the RE:Spark Program

The RE:Spark program will feature several innovative components aimed at facilitating renewable electricity adoption:

1. Digital Hub: M&S will launch a centralized portal powered by Schneider Electric's Zeigo Hub. This tool is designed for suppliers to upload emissions data, monitor decarbonization initiatives, and access educational resources focused on carbon reduction strategies.

2. Education Initiatives: The program will host regional briefings and webinars in five key markets—Vietnam, Turkey, India, China, and Bangladesh—aiming to empower suppliers with knowledge regarding renewable electricity procurement.

3. Advisory Services: M&S plans to provide strategic advisory services to suppliers, assisting them in identifying and implementing clean energy solutions, such as onsite solar technologies and energy attribute certificates.

4. PPAs Collaboration: By enabling suppliers to consolidate demand for Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), the initiative will allow smaller suppliers to access renewable electricity collectively, offering them better purchasing power and opportunities.

M&S is initially focusing on high-impact regions within its fashion supply chain, with an expected expansion over the next few years.

Building a Sustainable Future

This initiative builds upon M&S's recent efforts to improve its environmental performance in manufacturing. They have also achieved notable circularity milestones, including the launch of Another Life, a platform driving circularity in fashion, home, and beauty sectors. This platform supports initiatives including rewear, repair, recycle, and resale, reinforcing M&S's goal to reshape its business for sustainable profitability.

M&S’s sustainability efforts are enhanced by leveraging technology. They have already adopted the Higg Facility Environmental Module (Higg FEM) across its Tier 1 facilities, ensuring accurate emission data collection that informs their strategy and targets for emission reductions.

Conclusion

In summary, M&S's RE:Spark initiative not only aims to revolutionize how renewable energy is utilized within its supply chain but also positions the company as a leader in combating climate change. As Beacham states, “By acting as a facilitator, we can help our suppliers build networks and resilience for the long term.” This initiative sets the stage for a transformative movement within the fashion industry, demonstrating that collaborative efforts can lead to significant, scalable change toward a sustainable future.

The engagement and collaboration initiated by RE:Spark signify a positive step toward environmental responsibility, making it clear that Marks & Spencer is serious about its commitment to sustainability and the future of our planet.