Brilliant innovation
Swarovski is synonymous with craftsmanship and luxury. Founded by Daniel Swarovski over 130 years ago in Wattens, in the Austrian Alps, the company became world-renowned for its revolutionary precision-cutting technology that produced crystals of unmatched brilliance and quality.
The company also shines as an early pioneer of sustainability. In 1907, Swarovski developed its first hydropower plant to drive the crystal-cutting machines. “From its inception, Swarovski used the power of the local river to fuel its manufacturing,” says Hannes Suitner, GSC Category Manager B2B Core.
Guided by Daniel’s philosophy to continuously improve what is already good, today the company has set out ambitious, long-term sustainability goals, using its renowned savoir-faire to drive innovation and weaving sustainability into the fabric of its entire business, including the company’s commitment to clean energy and future product innovations, from conception to store.
Today, Swarovski’s focus is on three key areas: mitigating climate change with energy efficiency and renewables; preserving resources and minimising waste, by using more sustainable materials or pursuing circular principles in design and operations; and promoting fairness and celebrating individuality across the organisation and supply chain.
Crystal clean
Swarovski’s ReCreated Crystals exemplify one of the company’s many sustainability advancements. Combining Swarovski’s exceptional savoir-faire with circular innovation, Swarovski ReCreated Crystals are the House’s most sustainable crystals to date.
These high-quality crystals are made according to circular principles, using leftover materials from crystal manufacturing. This innovation allows Swarovski to use at least 40% fewer natural resources than for its standard crystals, as well as minimises waste.
“Pushing design boundaries is in our DNA, and today that means creating beautiful products with minimal environmental impact,” says Milena Haas, Senior Product Development Manager at Swarovski.
Flying the flag for responsible luxury
In 2024, Swarovski opened a new flagship store on Fifth Avenue in New York. This shining example of crafting a high-end customer experience, while mitigating, controlling and reducing its footprint, has achieved Platinum-level certification under the LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) rating system.
“Swarovski on Fifth stands as a testament to how luxury and sustainability can go hand in hand,” says Miso Bugarski, Head of Global Construction and Facility Management at Swarovski.
