As sustainability regulations continue to evolve, fishing and outdoor brands are facing growing pressure from both regulators, retailers, and consumers to demonstrate transparency, responsibility, and measurable impact. From PFAS bans and extended producer responsibility (EPR) laws to climate-related financial disclosures and FTC scrutiny of green marketing claims, keeping up with compliance is more complex—and critical—than ever.
At Emerger Strategies, we help brands like yours not only stay compliant, but turn regulatory requirements into a competitive advantage. Here’s a breakdown of key sustainability regulations affecting the fishing and outdoor industries in 2025—and how we can help you confidently navigate them.
1. PFAS (“Forever Chemicals”) Regulations
What’s Happening:
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are being phased out or banned across numerous U.S. states and countries due to their toxicity and environmental persistence. Many fishing and outdoor products (e.g., waterproof gear, coatings, apparel) have historically used PFAS.
Key Regulations to Watch:
- State bans on PFAS in textiles and outdoor gear (e.g., California, Maine, Washington).
- Retailer mandates, including restrictions by REI and Dick’s Sporting Goods.
- TSCA updates and federal regulatory movement in the U.S. EPA pipeline.
How Emerger Strategies Helps:
We assist brands in identifying PFAS in products, finding safer alternatives, and proactively communicating changes to retailers and customers—mitigating risk and protecting brand reputation.
2. Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) for Packaging & Textiles
What’s Happening:
EPR laws shift the responsibility for end-of-life management of packaging and textiles to producers. Fishing and outdoor brands selling in states like California, Colorado, Oregon, and Maine must now register, report, and contribute financially to recycling and waste programs. Additionally, retailers like REI, Bass Pro Shops, and West Marine are requesting that their suppliers use more sustainable packaging.
Key Regulations to Watch:
- Packaging EPR laws now active in CA, CO, OR, and ME.
- Textile EPR legislation emerging in NY, CA, and the EU.
- Retailers are increasingly requiring proof of sustainable packaging and product design.
How Emerger Strategies Helps:
We simplify the EPR registration and reporting process, help you redesign packaging and products for circularity, and ensure your business is prepared for growing EPR compliance demands—without overwhelming your team.
3. Climate-Related Financial Disclosures (GHG Reporting)
What’s Happening:
Regulators and retailers are requiring brands to disclose their greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and climate-related risks. The U.S. SEC’s final climate disclosure rule is increasing expectations, and large retailers like Walmart, REI, and Target are pressuring suppliers to measure and reduce emissions.
Key Regulations to Watch:
- SEC climate disclosure rule.
- California’s SB 253, SB 261, and AB 1305.
- EU Corporate Sustainability Reporting Directive (CSRD) for brands selling in Europe.
- Retailer-specific reporting requests via platforms like EcoVadis and CDP.
How Emerger Strategies Helps:
We measure your Scope 1 and 2 emissions, help you set reduction targets, and respond to retailer scorecards and disclosure requests. Our Sustainability Assessment tools and reporting frameworks are designed to simplify climate compliance and reduce your operational burden.
4. Green Marketing Claims & FTC Crackdown
What’s Happening:
With sustainability messaging and green marketing claims on the rise, so is the risk of greenwashing. The Federal Trade Commission (FTC) is revising its Green Guides, and enforcement around misleading environmental claims is increasing.
Key Regulations to Watch:
- Revised FTC Green Guides (expected to clarify claims like “recyclable,” “carbon neutral,” and “eco-friendly”).
- State and international truth-in-advertising laws.
- Lawsuits and consumer advocacy efforts targeting vague or deceptive sustainability language.
How Emerger Strategies Helps:
We review and refine your green marketing claims to ensure they are honest, accurate, and evidence-backed—building trust with customers and shielding your brand from legal and reputational risks.
Why It Matters
For fishing and outdoor brands, aligning with these evolving sustainability regulations isn’t just about compliance—it’s about protecting access to retailers, strengthening your brand, and doing right by the planet.
How Emerger Strategies Can Help
At Emerger Strategies, we specialize in helping small and mid-sized fishing and outdoor companies simplify sustainability. Our services include:
- PFAS phase-out planning & safer materials sourcing
- EPR compliance & sustainable packaging redesign
- Greenhouse gas emissions measurement & reporting
- Climate risk disclosure support
- FTC-compliant green marketing & communications
- Retailer sustainability scorecard response support
Ready to Future-Proof Your Brand?
Whether you’re just getting started or looking to level up your sustainability program, we’re here to help. Let’s make the business case for sustainability together—and ensure you stay ahead of the curve. Check out our Sustainability Consulting Services or fill out the form below to schedule a free 30-minute consultation.