Seon, Switzerland, 21 July 2005 – As the world becomes more environmentally
aware, it is vital for the outdoor industry and individuals to become involved. Earlier
this year, as part of its mandate to work on behalf of the industry, the European
Outdoor Group established a Working Group to discuss and formulate policy on
environmental issues with initial focus around the OutDoor Fair in Friedrichshafen.

The Environment Group includes representatives from Patagonia, Marmot, Vaude,
Lafuma, Arc’teryx and Macpac.

The idea behind the group is quite simple; everyone within the outdoor industry
makes a livelihood out of the natural environment and people’s enjoyment of outdoor
based activities. As part of our corporate social responsibility we believe it is right for
us to work on projects that will protect, enhance or minimise the impact we have on
the world around us.

During the OutDoor fair many of these initiatives will be visible including;

• Nature is our Business – an exhibition to inspire visitors with existing and potential projects and solutions from non-profit organisations (Foyer West)
• an ‘Eco café’ where food and drinks will be for those who want to look after themselves as well as the environment (Foyer West)
• less immediately visible, but just as important changes will be that for the first time the fair will be no smoking
• an improved public transport infrastructure – including more courtesy buses – should mean less taxis and therefore less impact on the environment

Moving beyond this summer, the group will look at wider ranging ways of promoting
best practice within the industry and at projects that the industry could be involved in
via co-operation and support. There is also the intention to establish a resource
database that can be a source of information for members on environmental issues.
The move mirrors a growing awareness within the industry of the urgency to act on
environmental matters and recognises that as an association, the EOG can play a
leading role in co-ordinating and stimulating action.

Notes to Editors:

The European Outdoor Group is an association set up to represent the common
interests of the European outdoor industry.

Originally founded in 2003 by nineteen of the world’s largest Outdoor companies, the
EOG now has 32 members, which include some of the largest brands in the world.
The combined strength of the member brands, and a close cooperation with national
outdoor associations, provides an extremely powerful force to represent the European
outdoor industry in a constructive and positive manner.

Further information about the EOG can be found on their website:
www.EuropeanOutdoorGroup.com
or contact: info@EuropeanOutdoorGroup.com

Vision Statement
To have a cohesive European industry, a healthier consumer and an environment where all can
participate in outdoor sports.

Mission Statement
To ensure a successful outdoor industry in Europe, through providing services, education, market
research and by promoting and campaigning for a healthier outdoor lifestyle.