Sustainability Comparison

Nike vs adidas Sustainability: SINK Score Comparison

adidas scores 3 points higher than Nike on SINK's sustainability index.

Question-by-question

How each category compares

Category
Nike
adidas
Carbon Footprint — Operations
8/10
7/10
Carbon Footprint — Supply Chain
6/10
7/10
Emissions Trajectory
4/10
5/10
Energy Source
7/10
5/10
Nature & Biodiversity Impact
3/10
5/10
Resource Use & Waste
6/10
6/10
Water Impact
5/10
6/10
Targets & Commitments
6/10
7/10
Transparency & Accountability
7/10
7/10
Controversies & Red Flags
3/10
5/10
Frequently asked

Nike vs adidas, answered.

Which is more sustainable, Nike or adidas?

adidas is more sustainable according to SINK's open sustainability index, scoring 42/100 vs Nike's 39/100 — a difference of 3 points.

What is Nike's SINK sustainability score?

Nike scores 39/100 on the SINK sustainability index (Below expectations). Nike has strong operational emissions controls and renewable energy deployment, but Scope 3 emissions—96% of its footprint—remain above 2015 baseline. Nature impact is poorly assessed, circularity metrics lack transparency, and the company's trade association memberships actively oppose climate policy, undercutting its direct commitments.

What is adidas's SINK sustainability score?

adidas scores 42/100 on the SINK sustainability index (Below expectations). Adidas discloses emissions comprehensively under GHG Protocol but remains off-track for 2030 climate targets, with absolute emissions rising year-on-year despite intensity gains. A 2025 German court ruling upheld misleading climate advertising claims. Energy transition relies heavily on unbundled instruments rather than additionality; supply chain renewable penetration at 24% is weak.

How does SINK compare Nike and adidas?

Both companies are rated on the same 10-question SINK rubric: Scope 1/2/3 carbon footprint, energy source, nature and biodiversity, resource use, water, emissions trajectory, science-based targets, transparency, and controversies. Scores are 0–100, based on public data, and fully reproducible.

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