Gap sustainability score: 34/100

Gap Inc. reports Scope 1 (39,569 tCO2e) and Scope 2 market-based (59,753 tCO2e) for FY2024 via GHG Protocol with assurance statements. However, reductions from 2017 baseline fell from 77% (2022) to 74% (2024), indicating operational emissions have risen in recent years despite long-term progress.

Gap reports ~4,000,381 tCO2e Scope 3 emissions (FY2024) covering purchased goods, transport, and franchises. Three key suppliers have SBTi-aligned targets; 83% of sourcing spend allocated to green-rated factories. However, 13% reduction from 2017 baseline is modest for an SBTi-committed company, and absolute Scope 3 emissions have increased.

Gap's emissions trajectory shows material regression. Scope 1&2 reductions fell from 77% (2022) to 74% (2024); Scope 3 reductions fell from 16% (2017–2022) to 13% (2017–2024). Both operational and supply-chain absolute emissions have risen in recent years despite long-term baseline improvements, a significant red flag.

Gap achieved 58% renewable electricity in company-operated facilities as of 2022, with a 90MW VPPA with Enel Green Power and 100% renewable target by 2030. Progress from 1% in 2017 is significant, but the company has not reached 90%+ threshold and the 2024 figure remains flat at ~58%.

Gap has assessed nature dependencies with a Wood-Derived Fabric Policy aligned to Canopy, prohibiting ancient forest sourcing. 98% of cotton from sustainable sources (BCI, organic, recycled, regenerative). However, no TNFD-aligned disclosure, no quantified nature footprint. Good On You notes the unsustainable fast-fashion model inherently pressures ecosystems.

Gap achieved 80% recycled content in consumer plastic packaging (2025 target met). TextileGenesis traceability covers 82 million garments; 40% polyester from recycled sources. Athleta is B Corp certified. However, the fast-fashion model—high-volume production, heavy discounting, enormous product throughput across Old Navy and Gap—remains fundamentally linear and resource-intensive.

Gap reports 28 billion liters consumed in 2024, reduced or replenished 14% (3.9 billion liters). Washwell saved 6.0 billion liters since 2016 (WRI-validated). Nearly all Tier 1 and Tier 2 sites mapped for water risk. GWICA water innovation centre with Arvind eliminates freshwater use in denim mills. ZDHC member with increasing replenishment targets.

Gap has SBTi-validated near-term targets: 90% Scope 1&2 reduction by 2030 (1.5°C-aligned) and 30–32.5% Scope 3 reduction by 2030. However, its net-zero commitment was removed from SBTi dashboard in March 2024 for missing 2050 target deadline. The company downgraded Scope 3 from 1.5°C to 'well-below 2°C' scenario, signalling reduced ambition.

Gap has published 20 consecutive annual sustainability reports aligned to GRI, SASB, and TCFD. CDP disclosures, S&P Global DJSI inclusion (11 consecutive years), UN Global Compact signatory. Data assurance statements and factory lists published. However, no evidence of executive compensation linked to sustainability targets; SBTi net-zero removal raises governance follow-through questions.

No major environmental controversies, greenwashing lawsuits, or regulatory fines identified. Good On You rates as 'It's a Start,' citing unsustainable fast-fashion model. SBTi net-zero commitment removal is a process failure rather than environmental breach. No documented misalignment with climate policy found.