Do you ever go into REI thinking you'll just pick up a camp stove, or a nice warm fleece, and come out with enough stuff to fill your trunk? I can always excuse buying a little more because I know I'll get some money back with the the end-of-year dividend. That's not the only advantage of REI's Co-op system. Just as many REI members practice leave-no-trace hiking, REI has been recognized for its responsible waste disposal practices.This week, REI (Recreational Equipment, Inc.) was awarded theEnviroStars Recognized Leader Award. Enviro Stars is an environmental certification program that rates companies' management and reduction of hazardous waste, awarding ratings according to environmentally responsible practices. REI was recognized for recycling 78.8 percent of its operational waste by weight, instituting recycling programs at all REI stores and facilities, and testing green building technology with a retail store prototype initiative, among a number of other initiatives.Those awarded Recognized Leaders program are large businesses that serve as mentors and models for the broader community. REI was chosen for this award, according to program manager Laurel Tomchick, for "comprehensive examination of the organization's environmental impacts" and their efforts to address these impacts broadly.
I spoke with Kirk Myers, REI's manager of corporate social responsibility, who said "We really see that every environmental problem has social aspects, and every social problem has environmental aspects." REI has partnered with several other companies to improve the paper supply chain, by considering the origins of wood fiber, using materials efficiently, and working with supply partners who have high standards for environmental and social performance.
"It is quite an honor. We're proud to receive this award; it's a great acknowledgement that our peers and partners recognize our work towards a critical mass of environmental responsibility" says Myers.
No comments:
Post a Comment