Learn About Sustainability in Fashion with Dr. Martens

Jack Connors, Sustainability Project Manager at Dr. Martens, recently visited the Fashion Retail Academy to deliver an inspiring masterclass to our BA (Hons) Buying & Merchandising students.

He shared how sustainability is shaping key business decisions at Dr. Martens, from product development to manufacturing and marketing. He also explained the journey a product takes before hitting the shelves and how brands are working to reduce their impact on the planet.

About Dr. Martens

Dr. Martens launched its first boot, the 1460, in 1960. Known for its yellow stitching, grooved sole, and black and yellow heel, this design is still a bestseller today. With sustainability now a major focus for consumers, the brand is working hard to make its products more eco-friendly while keeping the same quality and durability that they're famous for.

What Does Jack Do?

As the Sustainability Project Manager, Jack helps Dr. Martens improve sustainability across design, manufacturing and marketing. He describes the process as constant innovation - testing, learning and improving to create a better future for the brand. The goal is to make Dr. Martens as sustainable as possible without compromising quality.

What is Dr. Martens Doing to Be More Sustainable?

With 50% of their shoes made from leather and materials containing plastics like PVC, Dr. Martens is searching for better alternatives. The brand has been working on sustainability for years and follow a 'Product, Planet, People' strategy to make real change.

Not only are they improving materials, but they're also finding more sustainable ways to market their products; their biggest goal is to become net zero by 2040!

Why Study Sustainability in Fashion?

The fashion industry is responsible for up to 10% of global carbon emissions and produces huge amounts of waste and plastic. Brands need sustainability experts to help them change - and that's where you can come in!

Sustainability is one of the fastest-growing areas in fashion, with high demand for specialists who transform the industry. Working in sustainable fashion means you'll play a key role in shaping a more sustainable future.

Study Sustainability in Fashion at the FRA

This masterclass is a part of our BA (Hons) Buying & Merchandising degree, within the Sourcing, Supply Chain & Sustainability module. This two-year accelerated course teaches you about trend forecasting, product innovation, and how to trade a fashion season from concept to consumer.

We also offer a brand-new BA (Hons) Sustainability in Fashion degree, designed to give you the technical skills and knowledge to drive change in the fashion industry. You'll explore the political, social, and environmental factors shaping sustainability and learn how to build a more ethical supply chain.