At the dawn of 2022, François Roberge, founder and owner of  la Vie en Rose, along with four employees, decided to create an eco-responsible committee. Their objective: to reduce the company's environmental footprint. Where to begin? What actions to take? To ensure they were on the right track, they reached out to the Sustainable Apparel Coalition (SAC).

In order to support businesses in their sustainability transition, the nonprofit organization provides social and environmental impact analysis tools to its members through the Higg platform. This platform allows them to review various aspects of their operations while comparing their results to the aggregated data of other members. Opportunities for improvement are identified, and in response, best practices are suggested. After a year as a pilot project, La Vie en Rose will complete its first self-assessment of operations in 2023.

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Simultaneously, the eco-responsible committee, composed of volunteers from different departments, organizes engaging and educational activities for all employees. As for new ideas to "do better," everyone is invited to share them, whether or not they are part of the committee.

Several sustainable initiatives have also been in place for many years. The reverse hanger management, implemented in 2014, has prevented the production of 7 million additional hangers. At the distribution center, cardboard boxes received with merchandise are reused for storage or shipments. Non-reusable boxes are sent to the compactor, and the cardboard is subsequently sent to Cascades for recycling. The same applies to plastic packaging.

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Regarding products, the company has started incorporating lower-impact fibers into certain models. They also encourage customers to maximize the lifespan of their purchases, particularly through an online guide dedicated to the care of bras and swimsuits.

Recently, the corporate headquarters, now located on Viau Street, underwent a green transformation. Filters were connected to the water supply network to eliminate the need for plastic bottles. The building is illuminated with energy-efficient LED lights. To reduce waste, a composting system was implemented, and reusable cups are provided to employees. They are also encouraged to use public transportation to commute to the office through a subsidized subscription.

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Determined in its quest for sustainability while being aware of the challenges that lie ahead, La Vie en Rose knows that it is by taking one step at a time, whether small or big, that it will eventually reach its destination.

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The distribution of this article is made possible by the contribution of Détail Québec, the retail sectoral workforce committee.

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