Vantage Apparel (PPAI 113235, S10) reports that it has reduced its environmental footprint by replacing virgin plastic poly bags with recycled packaging. The 100-percent-recycled poly bags are made from post-industrial scrap and provide a durable, biodegradable solution to protect garments from dust, dirt and moisture during transit. Customers can expect the new bags to be implemented as early as March.

Vantage Apparel COO Marc Loeb says, “Vantage is excited to take this important step toward sustainability. We will continue to seek efficiencies internally and with production partners, such as EcoEnclose, a leader in eco-friendly packaging supplies, as we work towards our goal to manufacture and ship with the least amount of environmental impact as possible.”

Vantage lists the packaging initiative is a core pillar of the Avenel, New Jersey, company’s sustainability strategy which also addresses the use of recycled materials in garment manufacturing. The first items to meet this mark were released earlier this year and include polos, hoodies and button-down knit shirts for men and women. Marketed under Earthwise, the styles all use REPREVE high-quality recycled polyester made from post-consumer plastic bottles.