VAUDE Material Policy

While Green Shape is a product label that is recognizable by our customers, VAUDE is also working "behind the scenes" with strict parameters for product development: The VAUDE Material Policy delineates our voluntary commitment to applying "Best Available Technology" (BAT) to eliminate controversial technologies and materials and ensure maximum traceability of all materials to their origin.

The sustainability of a product begins with its very concept - see also "Sustainable Design". This is when materials are chosen that are as environmentally friendly and durable as possible - see also "Highly functional, yet ecologically sustainable".

The strict standards that we apply in our VAUDE Material Policy are also reflected in our Green Shape product philosophy - see "Respect for people and nature".

The VAUDE Material Policy undergoes constant development and updating. We rely on the opinions of experts, colleges and organizations such as the WWF Germany. 

While the VAUDE Material Policy is “set” as a voluntary commitment, it remains difficult to find the right balance between performance, price and environmental-friendliness.

This balancing act is a challenge for our product managers. Frequently, sustainable materials cost more than their conventional counterparts, are more difficult to obtain, and are sometimes not as functional either. We need to carefully weigh the best ecological solution with what is acceptable in the market on a daily basis.