The Outdoor Eco Index is drawing attention from companies in Europe and the U.S. as the the “Beta Phase 1” version of the product-level environmental assessment tool begins testing.
This stakeholder review period for the Outdoor Industry Eco Index provides companies with the opportunity to test the current format and provide feedback toward the formal version scheduled for release in early 2011. The Outdoor Eco Index started development in 2007.
The Eco Index is a collaboration between Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) and the European Outdoor Group (EOG). Over 80 companies from around the world are currently signed up to participate in the Eco Index Pilot Program, and more are welcomed.
“The apparel, footwear and gear industries are diverse in product type as well as in the varying levels of knowledge and resources available to companies. The Eco Index was designed with this dynamic in mind, using a modular structure to help ensure usability throughout the industry.” said Beth Jensen, Corporate Responsibility Manager for OIA. “We are looking to the pilot program for critical feedback on the success of this approach from those who will actually be implementing the Eco Index.”
The stakeholder engagement period, scheduled to be open through December 2010, will also include a third-party review of the Index conducted by a group of environmental advocacy organizations, investors, and the academic community. The review is being facilitated by Boston-based Ceres, a national network of investors, environmental organizations and other public interest groups that work with companies and investors to address sustainability challenges.
OIA is welcoming new companies to join the development process. To join the Eco Index simply visit: www.ecoindexbeta.org/.
