Environmental considerations figure prominently in the business operations and products of the Mountain Equipment Co-op. Developing a 'formal sustainability strategy', the Canadian company is taking a leadership role in reducing the ecological impact of running a business while having a positive influence on the surrounding community.

The challenges of manufacturing strong, waterproof, lightweight and competitively priced outdoor gear in a business environment that is sacrificing quality for a lower price tag is difficult enough without trying to tackle the ecological footprint of research, design and production. MEC however, has elected to take on all these challenges producing a competitive, high-quality product while maintaining an enviable environmental record.

From the administrative paper trail to packaging, reduction is a key factor. Even in production, MEC doesn't introduce a new fabric until supplies of the old one are finished, and they actively purchase materials such as aluminum from companies that recycle off-cuts and leftovers. Equipment parts that wear out quickly are made easily replaceable, reducing the need to replace the whole product.

Organic cotton is used in clothing, and although chemical dyes are used to fix color, they are the best, low-impact product available that can guarantee longevity of the product. Ultimately, a product that lasts is good for a company's reputation and good for the environment, as the longer it lasts, the longer it stays out of the landfill.

Extending their field of activity into the community, MEC contributes 0.4-percent of the previous year's sales to an environmental fund that has poured over $5-million into Canadian-based conservation and wilderness protection projects, research and education.

Numerous initiatives have been introduces to make staff environmentally responsible and allow them to make environmentally responsible choices. Bike storage and showers are one measure that encourages alternative transport means and stores are often located close to bike tracks and transit lines. Even the environmental impact of constructing a new store has been addressed through the company's Building Green Program and Old Growth Free Policy.

From the paper used in its catalogues to battery recycling, the Mountain Equipment Co-op has one of the most thorough environmental policies in the sports industry today. To learn more, see the official website at
http://www.mec.ca/