During OutDoor in the summer the European Outdoor Group held an open meeting to start to address the question of sustainability and what as an industry sector the outdoor market should be doing. Following that initial meeting a further follow-up meeting has taken place in Friedrichshafen, those that confirmed attendance became the working group at least for the initial stages. The new Sustainability Working Group (SWG) is made up of representatives from Vaude, Mammut, W L Gore, Odlo, Salomon, Haglöfs, The North Face, Deuter, Globetrotter, and Petzl.

The aim with the SWG is to work with the US Eco Working Group set up last year by the US’s Outdoor Industries Association and to collectively put forward suggestions of best working practice. Any decisions taken by the Groups will obviously be optional for anyone working with the industry but it is hoped that they will give the opportunity to put forward a cohesive process for the outdoor sector to follow.

Ispo, February 2009 will provide the first platform for reporting back to the industry and anyone wishing to attend the open meeting is welcome. This will give companies the opportunity to put forward ideas, shape the future, and also to listen to what Bluesign may be able to offer the outdoor sector.

OPEN Meeting of the EOG Sustainability Working Group
Tuesday 3 February
Room A42 (above Hall A4)
Starting at 10.30am