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It was precisely at the turn of the last century that LMA initiated the path towards sustainability, a two-decade trail that makes the company a prominent example of innovation and responsibility. It has reduced water waste by around 90%, invested in recycled or naturally-based yarns and fibres, and it’s now also concerned about the industry’s social practices.
“The year 2000 was decisive in LMA’s history. Europe’s opening to the Asian market made us lose a large part of our business, but instead of giving up, we decided to redirect and bet on a new path: sustainability”, explains Luis Dias, one of the company’s commercial agents.
LMA invested in a new finishing department, which made it possible to make continuous white mesh using monochloride, which reduced water waste by 90%.
For most sports pieces, which are the company’s core business, LMA has invested in recycled or natural-based yarns and fibres.
The bet on the right partners, who are in line with LMA’s social and environmental principles, is another one of the company’s concerns.
“We have our whole operation happening in Portugal, from thread to manufacture, and it is important to pass this message on to the customers. If they make the whole process here, they minimize the CO2 emission which, as we know, is one of the sector’s biggest issues”, states Luís Dias.
In addition to environmental responsibility, LMA also takes on social concerns and is certified by Bluesign, a Swiss title awarded to companies that reveal innovative projects regarding employee involvement in the company’s sustainable policies. An example is the control of waste generated by workers, the car sharing or the incentive to bicycle use when commuting to and from work.