In today’s marketplace, sustainability is no longer optional—it’s a business imperative. Outdoor and fishing brands are under increasing pressure from customers, retailers, and regulators to prove they are reducing their environmental impact. The brands that lead on sustainability are not only protecting the planet but also building customer loyalty, reducing costs, and gaining a competitive edge.
Here are five sustainability trends outdoor and fishing brands can’t afford to ignore in 2025:
1. Retailer Sustainability Requirements Are Growing
Major retailers like Walmart, REI, and Dick’s Sporting Goods been rolling out stricter sustainability requirements for their suppliers. Additionally, retailers like Bass Pro Shops and West Marine are beginning to ask suppliers (brands) to make the switch to more sustainable packaging. From greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions reporting to packaging recyclability, if your brand wants shelf space, you need to demonstrate measurable progress. Brands that proactively prepare for these compliance demands will save time, reduce stress, and strengthen retail relationships.
Takeaway: If you don’t have a sustainability plan yet, now is the time to create one. We recommend our Retailer Sustainability Compliance Packages to get your brand ready to lead on sustainability.
2. Packaging Redesign for Circularity
Single-use plastics are being phased out, and more states are passing Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) laws that hold brands accountable for packaging waste. Outdoor and fishing brands are rethinking packaging by reducing material weight, shifting to recyclable and compostable options, and designing for reuse. To this end, Emerger Strategies has created Sustainable Packaging Scorecard so your brand can get a handle on your packaging and begin making the switch to more sustainable packaging! Additionally, we can help your brand with EPR for Packaging Compliance that can minimize EPR fees.
Takeaway: Investing in sustainable packaging now helps you stay ahead of regulations and consumer expectations.
3. Carbon Footprint Measurement & Reduction
Customers increasingly want to know the environmental footprint of the products they buy. Brands that measure and reduce their GHG emissions are not only mitigating risk but also improving efficiency and reducing costs. Many outdoor companies are now conducting carbon footprint analyses and setting science-based targets.
Takeaway: Start small—measure your Scope 1 and Scope 2 emissions, but understand that measuring Scope 3 emissions is considered best practice, and retailers like REI and Walmart expect you to measure Scopes 1-3. Once you have measure your carbon footprint, we build a reduction plan from there. Learn more about our GHG Management Services.
4. PFAS Phase-Out in Products & Gear
“Forever chemicals” (PFAS) are facing bans across the U.S. and abroad due to health and environmental risks. PFAS are common in waterproof clothing, fishing lines, and outdoor gear, but regulations are tightening quickly. Brands that fail to adapt risk recalls, fines, and reputational damage.
Takeaway: Now is the time to explore PFAS-free materials and build resilient supply chains. Contact us to learn more about our new PFAS Compliance Services!
5. Transparency Builds Trust
Customers and retailers don’t just want sustainability claims—they want proof. Transparency in reporting sustainability progress, supply chain practices, and product impacts builds brand trust and credibility. Storytelling around your measurable actions (not just aspirations) will set you apart in a crowded market.
Takeaway: Share your wins, even small ones, and back them with data. Check out our Sustainability Sales & Marketing Services to see how we can help you credibly communicate your sustainability efforts!
Final Thoughts
The outdoor and fishing industries thrive on healthy ecosystems. By embracing these sustainability trends, brands not only protect the environments their customers love (and your brand depends on) but also future-proof their businesses. The bottom line is that sustainability is not going away, and smart brands who embrace these regulatory and retailer challenges as opportunities will thrive.
At Emerger Strategies, we help outdoor and fishing brands simplify sustainability—making it easier to comply with retailer demands, reduce costs, and make the business case for protecting the planet.
Ready to get started? Contact us today to learn how we can help your brand lead on sustainability.
