shein will accelerate adoption of more sustainable packaging solutions

SHEIN, the global online fashion and lifestyle retailer, is advancing plans to reduce the use of virgin plastics throughout its operations and accelerate the adoption of more sustainable packaging solutions. SHEIN is increasing the use of recycled content in its plastic bags while continuing to explore plastic-free alternatives.

As part of its efforts to improve packaging, SHEIN will use recycled plastic courier bags for all parcels sent to EU countries and the UK in August 2022. These courier bags contain 50% recycled PE plastics, which are produced by waste recycling processes. The importance of the plastic circular economy continues to grow and can generate waste saving benefits at all stages of the product life cycle.

Compared to virgin plastic, PE plastic can be continuously recycled, minimizing the use of raw materials while requiring less energy and water to produce. By the end of this year, SHEIN's initiative is expected to save more than 319 tons of virgin plastic.

In addition, starting from August 2022, all products of MOTF, a high-end brand under the SHEIN Group, will use 100% recycled PE plastic packaging bags. This move is expected to save 3 tons of plastic particles per month. In the future, the packaging bags used by SHEIN, ROMWE and other SHEIN brands will also be gradually replaced with packaging bags containing more environmentally friendly materials.

SHEIN's recycled PE plastic express bags, MOTF and evoluSHEIN's recycled PE plastic packaging bags are all certified by the Global Recycled Standard (GRS) and are produced by GRS-certified suppliers Tianyuan and Xiandu.

This globally recognized certification supports the traceability of recycled materials at all stages of the supply chain and requires strict social and environmental compliance. The GRS standard is managed by Textile Exchange, a global non-profit organization leading the apparel industry in adopting more sustainable materials.

Adam Whinston, global head of environmental, social and governance (ESG) at SHEIN, said: “As SHEIN increases its investment in sustainability, we see packaging as a key area for improvement.

We believe reducing packaging and accelerating the adoption of more responsible materials, such as recycled plastic bags and forest-safe paper products, are important steps in fulfilling our environmental commitment.”