Our thinking

Making waves

2 May, 2025

Water is one of the most fundamental resources we have, essential for the global economy, thriving ecosystems and human survival. It’s also a major driver of industry, with sectors like agriculture, energy, and fashion using around 80% of the world’s available freshwater. So, it’s with interest that we look to luxury fashion house Kering’s ambitious new water-positive strategy to tackle growing risks around scarcity and biodiversity loss across its operations and supply chains. 

Moving beyond traditional efficiency measures, the strategy focuses on regeneration and replenishment, with a bold goal of achieving a net-positive impact on water systems by 2050. The strategy is built around three core themes: avoid and reduce, regenerate, and transform. To deliver on these, Kering has announced series of new programmes including a water-positive stewardship programme, water-positive raw materials, such as leather and natural fibres, and water resilience labs, together with an emphasis on collective action through partnerships and alliances. 

These labs are a standout feature. Set to launch in ten key locations globally they will foster collaboration with local stakeholders, including Indigenous groups, NGOs, suppliers, and public authorities. Recognising that water is inherently a local issue, the labs aim to translate global ambition into local activity and share the insights with other businesses in the region. Each of the three programmes comes with specific targets to help track real, measurable progress.  

This latest move builds on serious momentum. Just last year, Kering became one of the first companies globally to set science-based targets for nature. This new strategy is another big step toward putting nature at the heart of business.  

By Meg Seckel