
AGENDA
We aim to ensure that every step we take, leads to a better future at OpéraSPORT. Learn more about each step in our CSR strategy here, take a deep dive and see our product health & safety manual here, and explore our preferred material list here.
CSR STRATEGY DOCUMENT
RSL DOCUMENT
PREFERRED MATERIAL LIST
1.1 Raw Materials
- Since the first collection, OpéraSPORT has incorporated materials made from industrial waste along with certified organic cotton. Each material is chosen based on its look, quality, and performance.
- Recycled silk, cashmere, wool, and cotton in the collections come from pre-consumer waste, including excess fabric from weaving, factory cutting rooms, and unsold items. These materials are processed back into fiber form, spun into yarns, and then woven or knitted into fabrics.
- Recycled polyester and polyamide are sourced from consumer and industrial waste, such as plastic bottles and discarded textiles. These materials undergo fewer processing stages compared to new synthetics and are selected for their durability and performance in garment production.
- Our PU is either recycled PU or water-based PU. Recycled PU saves on raw materials, energy costs, and CO2 emissions. Water-based PU is environmentally friendly because it is produced in a polluti-on-free, non-toxic process and does not contain harmful chemicals. PU materials used in OpéraSPORT products are either recycled or water-based. Water-based PU is produced without certain chemicals traditionally used in synthetic leather alternatives.
- Organic cotton used in collections is certified according to international agricultural standards. It is grown without synthetic pesticides and follows specific farming guidelines.
- Looking ahead, OpéraSPORT aims to expand its material selections and explore additional recycled fibers. The focus remains on selecting materials that align with the brandʼs design and production needs while maintaining garment durability.
1.2 Animal Welfare
- OpéraSPORT does not use animal leather or exotic skins in garment production. Instead, the brand incorporates alternatives such as recycled PU and water-based PU.
- Wool and cashmere used in collections come from recycled sources. This approach reduces the need for newly sourced fibers.
- All collections are fur-free.
1.3 Chemical Management
- OpéraSPORT works with suppliers and manufacturers that follow a restricted substance list (RSL) in line with the EU REACH directive. This list outlines chemical substances that are either restricted or limited in textile production.
- All suppliers and manufacturers working with OpéraSPORT have agreed to comply with these guidelines.
1.4 Minimum Waste in Production
- OpéraSPORTʼs design approach considers material use and production processes. Prints are not required to be placed identically on each garment, which reduces fabric waste during cutting.
- Production quantities are based on orders from B2B customers and projected webshop demand. This approach helps align manufacturing with expected sales and avoids excess stock at the end of a season.
1.5 Textile Waste Management in Operations
- OpéraSPORT aims to align production with demand. Products are sold at set prices throughout the year, with archive sales held at specific times rather than during seasonal discount campaigns.
- OpéraSPORT repurposes leftover fabric to develop new styles or upcycle it into different items. These materials may also be used for runway shows, retail spaces, and photoshoot campaigns.
1.6 Care and Repair
- OpéraSPORT includes care instructions on product labels to help customers maintain garment quality. Garment hang-tags feature a scannable QR code that links to an online care guide with washing and maintenance information.
- The team is developing a series of garment care videos to provide additional guidance on fabric care and maintenance. Discussions are also underway with manufacturers about potential garment care products, which may be available on the e-commerce website in the future.
- Additionally, OpéraSPORT is exploring options for recommending local tailors for repairs and keeping spare parts, such as buttons, at the Copenhagen office for customers who need replacements for past editions.
1.7 Wear, Repair, and Repurpose
- OpéraSPORT designs garments with long-term wear in mind. As part of this approach, the brand is developing the REPEAT initiative, which focuses on rewear, repairs, and remaking garments into new items.
- Rewearing encourages customers to mix pieces from new collections with previous editions, offering styling inspiration to get more use out of existing garments. For repairs, OpéraSPORT is working on providing recommendations for local tailors and an on-request repair service through the webshop.
- For garments that are no longer in use, OpéraSPORT is developing a model to transform them into new designs.
1.8 Packaging Materials
- OpéraSPORTʼs garment care labels are produced using organic cotton. Outer packaging includes shipping envelopes made from FSC-certified paper. Our stickers are made from recycled materials.
- The team is exploring alternatives for packaging materials and assessing potential adjustments for future collections.
1.9 Operations and Workflow
- OpéraSPORT conducts most sales meetings online and limits air travel to occasions where an in-person presence is necessary.
- At the office, employees and interns use reusable glasses, plates, and cutlery. Waste is sorted into categories, including food waste, plastic, carton, and general waste.
- For campaign shoots, OpéraSPORT works mainly with local photographers and models. All shoots take place in-house rather than requiring travel to external locations.
1.9.1 Events at CPHFW
- Set designs and show productions are planned with reuse in mind. Props, including signs, are repurposed for future events or recycled when no longer needed.
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Single-use plastic is not used for backstage packaging. Invitations are sent digitally rather than printed.
2.0 Our Workplace
- OpéraSPORT values a collaborative and engaging work environment. The team consists of full-time and part-time employees, as well as interns, working together in a creative setting.
- The company encourages open communication and team connection, including regular meetings where employees can share updates on their work. Flexible working arrangements are in place when needed.
- OpéraSPORT emphasizes a balanced work culture, where a constructive and supportive atmosphere is prioritized.
2.1 Diversity and Representation
- OpéraSPORT promotes a professional work environment where employees are treated fairly and evaluated based on their skills and qualifications. Policies are in place to ensure hiring, development, and workplace decisions are based on competence and performance.
- In the design and marketing of its products, OpéraSPORT incorporates a broad representation of individuals. This includes diverse imagery in illustrations, prints, and campaigns. The brand works to avoid stereotypes and aims to portray individuals with depth and authenticity.
- OpéraSPORT follows the guidelines of the Danish Fashion Ethical Charter when casting models and collaborates with individuals from a range of backgrounds. Efforts are made to ensure inclusivity across various aspects of the business, including hiring and partnerships.
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A zero-tolerance policy is maintained for discrimination, harassment, or any form of workplace misconduct. Non-discrimination principles are integrated into recruitment, career development, and promotion processes.
2.2 Production and Manufacturing Standards
- OpéraSPORT's main production takes place on the outskirts of Shanghai, China. The factories we collaborate with play a key role in sourcing materials and handling made-to-order requests.
- The factories we work with hold GOTS, BSCI, and WRAP certifications, which set standards for wages and working conditions. All manufacturers and suppliers sign a code of conduct outlining the terms of collaboration.
2.3 Labour Standards
- OpéraSPORT works with manufacturers and suppliers that follow regulations prohibiting forced or child labor. Employees must have the right to union membership and collective bargaining. Employment decisions, including recruitment, compensation, training, promotion, and termination, should be based on skills and qualifications rather than personal characteristics.
- Manufacturers and suppliers must ensure a work environment that meets basic standards for lighting, ventilation, hygiene, fire safety, and access to clean drinking water and sanitation facilities. Where applicable, storage for food should be provided. Workplace health and safety training is expected to be conducted regularly.
- Workers must receive wages that align with legal minimums or collective agreements, whichever is higher, and compensation should allow for basic living expenses. Work hours are expected to comply with legal limits, including designated rest periods and voluntary overtime that is compensated at an increased rate.