As sustainability takes center stage in the business world, outdoor retail giant REI is setting a bold example by requiring its brand partners to align with comprehensive sustainability expectations. REI’s Product Impact Standards provide a roadmap for brands to enhance their environmental and social responsibility while meeting the needs of consumers who are increasingly supporting brands that align with their values.
Key Areas of Focus in REI’s Standards
1. Climate & Environmental Stewardship: REI’s goal is to ensure that the products they sell are produced in a way that minimizes greenhouse gas emissions and promotes stewardship, biodiversity and long-term environmental, social, and economic sustainability.
REI expects all brand partners to measure their greenhouse gas emissions following the Greenhouse Gas Protocol. Brands are also expected to adopt science-aligned reduction targets that encompass scopes 1, 2, and 3 emissions. This ensures efforts are in line with limiting global warming to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels. GHG accounting is becoming increasingly regulated as the SEC and California have climate reporting laws that have passed and will take effect in the next couple of years.
2. Chemical and Material Compliance: REI’s goal is to sell high-quality and high-performance products made from benign and well-understood chemical inputs.
Brands must adhere to rigorous standards regarding chemicals and materials. These measures aim to protect both consumers and the environment from toxic exposure. Chemical management is also an increasingly important topic and becoming regulated by the EPA, as well as several states who are now regulating PFAS and BPA.
3. Fair & Safe Supply Chains: REI’s goal is to ensure that the supply chain behind the products that they sell are fair, safe, and non-discriminatory.
REI requires its partners to uphold worker rights and safety across their supply chains. This includes compliance with international labor standards and fostering environments free of discrimination and forced labor.
4. Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI): REI envisions a future where everyone feels welcome to be themselves, access opportunities and find their place outside – no matter who they are, where they live, or how they get out. REI’s focus is on eliminating discrimination and other negative social impacts related to the products they sell as well as the practices and policies used to create and market them. REI aims to implement strategies that helps them deliver more relevant products that reflect the myriad ways communities find meaning outside.
REI expects its brand partners to foster a culture of inclusion and equity. This includes implementing policies and practices that advance diversity across the organization, supporting underrepresented communities, and ensuring fair treatment and opportunity for all.
5. Animal Welfare: REI’s goal is to ensure that animal-derived materials used in the products they sell, such as down, wool and leather, come from animals that are treated with respect regarding their five domains.
Brands that use animal-derived materials, such as wool or down, must meet strict animal welfare standards. These include adherence to certifications that ensure humane treatment and ethical sourcing, reflecting REI’s commitment to protecting animal well-being throughout the supply chain.
Driving Impact through Collaboration
REI isn’t just dictating expectations—it’s fostering collaboration. The company offers guidance, tools, and resources to help brands meet these benchmarks. This partnership approach helps ensure compliance while driving innovation and improvement across the outdoor industry.
Why These Standards Matter
As more consumers prioritize sustainability in their purchasing decisions, aligning with REI’s Product Impact Standards represents more than compliance; it’s a competitive advantage. Brands that step up to these expectations can strengthen their reputation, deepen customer loyalty, and contribute meaningfully to sustainability goals.
Embracing the Future
REI’s Product Impact Standards reflect a growing demand for accountability and transparency in retail. By adhering to these principles, brands not only meet the needs of a premier retailer but also position themselves as leaders in sustainability—a vital step in today’s purpose-driven marketplace.
How Emerger Strategies Can Help
Navigating REI’s Product Impact Standards may feel daunting, but Emerger Strategies is here to simplify the process. From GHG emissions measurement and reporting to supply chain sustainability and compliance support, we help brands meet REI’s expectations with ease. With our expertise, you can streamline your sustainability efforts, improve your brand’s impact, and stay competitive in a rapidly evolving marketplace. Contact us today to learn more about our Sustainability Consulting Services.