Brent Kawamura’s path to sustainability wasn’t a straight line — it started with an Environmental Science degree, wound through LEED-certified building projects, and landed him in Product Sustainability at REI. Along the way, fishing has remained the thread that keeps it all grounded. In this episode, I interview Brent to pull back the curtain on REI’s Product…
Tag: REI Product Impact Standards
What’s New with REI Product Impact Standards (v4.0) in 2026?
Retailers like Walmart, Dick’s Sporting Goods, Bass Pro Shops, REI, and even specialty retailers now expect brands to measure and improve their social & environmental performance. Why? Because these retailers have their own sustainability goals they are trying to achieve, such as: Net-Zero by 2050, Zero Waste, and others focused on climate, nature, waste reduction,…
Why Retailers Like REI & Walmart Want You to Measure Sustainability—And How It Helps You Win More Business
If you’re a small to medium-sized enterprise (SME) in the fishing or outdoor industries, you’ve likely noticed that major retailers like REI, Walmart, and Target are requiring brands to measure and improve their sustainability performance. These demands can feel overwhelming, especially if you lack a full-time sustainability team or don’t know where to start. However,…
Meeting the Product Impact Standards: REI’s Sustainability Expectations for Brands
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…