REI details environmental progress in stewardship report

Sumner, Wash. Recreational Equipment, Inc. (REI), has released its fourth annual stewardship report, which details the company’s progress to address its operational environmental impact, efforts to introduce people to nature and protect outdoor spaces, and performance in providing an inclusive and rewarding workplace.

“REI reflects its deep commitment to stewardship in how we care for the world where we all play, work and live, and how we connect people to nature,” said Kevin Hagen, REI’s director of corporate social responsibility. “REI’s 2009 report delivers on our desire to be transparent and accountable to our employees, members, customers and other stakeholders.”

The report, available online at Rei.com/stewardship, is divided into three sections: community, environment and people. The environment section highlights progress made against REI’s five environmental strategies, which include reducing greenhouse gas emissions, sustainable paper usage, reducing waste and optimizing recycling, green building and product stewardship. Specific highlights include a reduction of the company’s absolute climate impact by 10% from 2008, and an 18% reduction of total electricity usage provided through green power purchases and rooftop solar systems.