Shein aligns net zero goals with global standards
A popular low-cost shopping app is obtaining global certification for its sustainability efforts.
Chinese-founded and Singapore-based global on-demand fashion app Shein has received validation from the global non-profit Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) for its net-zero science-based target by 2050 and approval of its near- and long-term science-based emissions reduction targets.
By having its climate validated to conform with the SBTi Net-Zero Standard, Shein is also aligning with the Paris Agreement ambition to limit global warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius above pre-industrial levels
Shein’s approved targets are as follows
Overall net-zero target:
- Reach net-zero greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions across the value chain by 2050.
Near-term targets:
- Reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 (operational) GHG emissions by 42% by 2030.
- Reduce absolute Scope 3 (supply chain partner) GHG emissions by 25% by 2030.
- Increase active annual sourcing of renewable electricity to 100% by 2030.
Long-term targets:
- Reduce absolute Scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions by 90% by 2050.
- Reduce absolute Scope 3 GHG emissions by 90% by 2050.
"SBTi's validation of our net-zero targets marks an important step in SHEIN's decarbonization journey,” said Mustan Lalani, global head of sustainability at Shein. "We are committed to reducing emissions across our value chain and recognize that addressing Scope 3 emissions is a complex but critical part of that effort. As we continue this work, we will build on our momentum and adapt our approach in line with evolving technologies, policies and industry best practices."
Shein focuses on dyeing and finishing, product testing, polyester recycling, denim printing
Shein has been taking a number of steps across its enterprise to improve sustainability. The company recently began collaborating with functional chemistry and new materials technology company Transfar Chemicals to pursue advances in textile dyeing and finishing technologies.
Through this joint effort, both companies aim to accelerate the commercialization and application of scientific advancements of textile production and dyeing processes.
In other responsible and sustainable supply chain activities, Shein has built and implemented a multi-faceted product safety protocol designed to help ensure product compliance with applicable laws and regulations, as well as the company’s own product safety standards.
In 2025, Shein plans to invest more than $15 million into the system, which spans before, during and after the sale process.
The company has also developed a polyester recycling process that accepts a wider range of feedstock materials, including both pre- and post-consumer textile waste and PET bottles. Developed in partnership with Donghua University in Shanghai, this technology is also designed to improves the cost efficiency of recycled polyester.
Shein is working with selected fiber manufacturers to scale up production, with the first facility set to begin large-scale operations in June 2025, targeting an annual production output of 3,000 metric tons of recycled polyester fibers.
Other notable corporate responsibility efforts from Shein include increasing its adoption of cool transfer denim printing, a technology that consumes less water and energy compared to traditional denim manufacturing methods while simplifying the production process.
[READ MORE: Shein saves water with digital denim printing]
Full details of Shein's net-zero targets can be found here.
