REI releases stewardship report
US outdoor gear and apparel retailer REI has released its 2011 stewardship report. The report details efforts to address its operational impact on the environment, protect outdoor natural spaces, and provide an inclusive and rewarding workplace.
“As part of REI’s core purpose, stewardship is present in individual employee actions, woven into our interactions with vendors, and used as a filter for our strategic and financial planning,” said Kevin Hagen, REI’s director of corporate social responsibility. “Our focus on the metrics of environmental and social performance helps us see opportunities we might have missed before. Using that lens results in both reduced impacts and better financial results.”
The sixth annual report covers metrics and actions for 2011 for its headquarters, 122 stores, two distribution centres and aspects of its supply chain manufacturing. The content is structured into three sections: Sustainable Operations, Community and Workplace. Highlights include: A 3% increase from 2010 in REI’s overall absolute climate impact, but less than the company’s overall growth of 8.4 percent (by sales); a decrease in REI’s operational waste; 12 new solar power generating installations, bringing REI’s continued investment to 23 stores and one distribution centre; the lowest use of paper and virgin fibre since REI began reporting in 2007.
