To the environment
DiVERGE showcases a constant dedication to environmental respect through its differentiated approach. According to a McKinsey study, overproduction represents about 10% (158 million tons) of the CO2 the fashion industry would have to cut in order by 2030 to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. This overproduction is generated by traditional mass production, where manufacturers produce goods in large quantities based on forecasts and predictions. When these products don't sell, they often end up as unsold inventory, which eventually become waste. By exclusively producing sneakers on-demand, our brand avoids overproduction and wastage crafting only what is sold.
This thoughtful strategy not only minimizes excess inventory but also reduces the strain on resources and lessens our ecological footprint. Our streamlined production process optimizes material management and resource utilization. And our production is 100% local - based in Portugal - and our sneakers are shipped directly from our workshops to our customers.
In an industry often marred by excessive consumption, DiVERGE's conscientious practices stand as an example of responsible and eco-friendly business operations.
To animal welfare
DiVERGE demonstrates a meticulous approach to material sourcing for our sneakers. We steer clear of exotic animal skins and hairs. We do use animal leathers for its quality and durability (which leads to less consumption) but only use leathers that are a by-product of the food industry, saving them from disposal as waste while circularly promoting them to a valuable asset.
We look for the highest standards of quality, safety and sustainability when choosing the materials we work with. All our leathers are certified by The Leather Working Group (LWG), an international organization that evaluates companies in the leather supply chain based on environmental, social, health and safety and governance criteria, including traceability. Our suppliers are either gold or silver rated, with traceability scores above 80 percent (among the highest in the tanning industry). Additionally, our leathers adhere to the Leather Standard by OEKO-TEX® (a label that guarantees a safe purchase for the health of both people and the environment) and they are also Blauer Engel (Blue Angel) certified.
This meticulous vetting process reflects DiVERGE's unwavering commitment to crafting products that uphold environmental respect and animal welfare.
To our people
DiVERGE puts a premium on maintaining a fair and ethical treatment of its employees. By offering salaries above the living wage, the company ensures that its workers are compensated fairly for their efforts, enhancing their quality of life. The provision of flexible working hours and a focus on work-life balance underscores DiVERGE's commitment to the well-being of its diverse team, fostering a positive and supportive work environment.
Moreover, DiVERGE's focus on treating people fairly extends beyond its own workforce to its suppliers. The company maintains rigorous standards to collaborate exclusively with suppliers that uphold similar principles of fair treatment and positive working culture. That is why the company only works with workshops in Portugal, so it maintain a close relationship with its suppliers and promote an ethical supply chain.
DiVERGE's comprehensive approach, encompassing fair pay, diversity, flexibility, work-life balance, and supplier standards, showcases a holistic commitment to creating an environment where employees are valued, respected and empowered.
To our community
DiVERGE is deeply dedicated to community upliftment, with our pivotal initiative iMAGINE. This initiative exemplifies the brand's unwavering focus on making a positive impact beyond their products. By championing education and empowerment, DiVERGE demonstrates a commitment to nurturing the growth of future generations. iMAGINE demonstrates our authentic commitment to being a catalyst for meaningful change, underscoring our role as a responsible and socially conscientious corporate entity.
By partnering with various organizations, DiVERGE actively contributes to enhancing educational opportunities for underserved youth. This initiative isn't just about donating time and resources, it's about fostering sustainable change. Through scholarships, mentorship programs, and educational resources, DiVERGE strives to equip young individuals with the tools they need to thrive, breaking the cycle of limited opportunities.
DiVERGE recognizes that a thriving community is the cornerstone of a better future. By investing in education, we are investing in the potential of countless lives, empowering individuals to reach their fullest potential and contribute positively to society.
