REI Co-op released its latest Product Impact Standards report to advance more sustainable and inclusive business practices.

The report marks the third in a series of standards, first announced in 2018 and updated in 2020. The latest guidelines were developed in consultation with partner brands 

The latest version builds on three key areas: fighting climate change, advancing inclusion in the outdoors and managing chemicals.

“The standards keep the co-op and over 1,000 of our brand partners accountable as we address the issues that are most important to our community,” said Chris Speyer, VP of product. “The products we carry represent our greatest opportunities to support better ways of doing business. We want our members and customers to know the products they purchase at REI are helping to build a better retail industry.”

Key updates in the 2023 report include:

  • Requiring brands to measure greenhouse gas emissions and set emissions reduction targets. REI committed to its emissions reduction target via the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi).
  • Advancing equity across outdoor gear and apparel, specifically price equity across size ranges, inclusive sizing and offerings for diverse hair types.
  • Updated chemicals management expectations, ensuring wide industry alignment with the latest state laws regarding PFAS.

In 2022, REI submitted a science-based target for approval via the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), adding additional “rigor and credibility to the co-op’s emissions reduction target.”

 As part of this commitment, REI reported it would work “with partners to ensure brands representing at least 55 percent of its annual sales volume will also set a science-aligned emissions reduction target by 2025.”

The co-op noted it would “provide a variety of resources and engagement opportunities to support brands as they work to pursue this goal—including workshops, guidance documentation, partnerships with the OIA’s Climate Action Corps, and more.”

The co-op uses a “Product Impact Assessment ” to track progress in implementing its standards. 

In 2021, REI brand partners “representing over $3.8 billion in annual sales” assessed their sustainability practices and shared their progress with the co-op. Over “400 brands, encompassing over 10,000 styles, reported using REI’s preferred sustainability attributes for their products. Over 300 brands representing more than 70 percent of annual sales stated that they had measured their greenhouse gas emissions and set reduction targets.”

The 2022 report can be read here.