YKK Corporation, headquartered in Chiyoda-ku, Tokyo, has announced a major sustainability initiative to use only low-carbon aluminum in all its aluminum alloy zippers. The company has signed an agreement with Sumitomo Electric Industries and Sumitomo Electric Toyama to source low-carbon aluminum alloy wires, gradually expanding their use since fiscal year 2024.

This move supports YKK’s broader efforts under its ‘Sustainability Vision 2050,’ which targets climate neutrality by the year 2050. The company is committed to cutting greenhouse gas emissions by 90 per cent across Scope 1, 2, and 3 levels compared to fiscal 2018. Transitioning to low-carbon aluminum is a key strategy for reducing Scope 3 emissions across its supply chain.

Low-carbon aluminum, produced using renewable energy such as hydropower, emits less than 4 metric tons of carbon dioxide per ton of aluminum ingots significantly less than aluminum produced with fossil-fuel power. The shift will enhance the sustainability of YKK’s aluminum zippers without compromising on performance or aesthetics.

According to Terry Tsukumo, Vice President of Product Strategy at YKK, the company has already been increasing the use of recycled and plant-based materials in its zipper textiles. With this new aluminum initiative, YKK is advancing its goal to reduce environmental impact while maintaining the lightweight, silver-toned, nickel-free, and plating-free benefits of aluminum in products suitable for apparel and luggage.

YKK aims to work closely with customers and partners to further develop and market sustainable zipper products and technologies, contributing to global climate action and the realization of a sustainable society.