As part of their long-term sustainability strategy, British outdoor brands Rab and Lowe Alpine (owned by Equip Outdoor Technologies Ltd.), have committed to achieve Net Zero by 2030. As a first step, Equip became a “Climate Neutral Company” in November 2020, certified by independent project developer and climate solutions provider South Pole, which will also accompany Equip on their road to Net Zero.
“Climate Neutral” in this instance means reducing emissions and balancing any remaining emissions through carbon credits. Carbon credits support projects that reduce or remove emissions, such as expanding renewable energy or conserving forests and carbon sinks. Achieving Net Zero” (as defined by the IPCC – Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change) means that Equip will not release more non-avoidable Greenhouse Gas Emissions into the atmosphere than it neutralises with actual carbon removal (rather than carbon credits).
South Pole has awarded Equip the “Climate Neutral Company” label based upon the scope and verification of their 2019 emissions data. Equip hasa number of emission reduction activities underway:
- Switched to 100% renewable energy in their head office and UK distribution centre,
- Switching their sales fleet to plug in hybrids or full electric vehicles,
- Switching to recycled fabrics and insulation both with synthetics and to P.U.R.E. down with some of Rab’s most important ranges, Cirrusand Microlight, by Autumn/Winter 2020, with more to come,
- Removing plastic or switching a minimum of 50% recycled plastic packaging by Spring/Summer 21.
In a first step toward Net Zero, all current greenhouse gas emissions that occur in the company’s business processes are quantified. Afterwards, a greenhouse gas reduction plan with clear and measurable targets is set up. These targets are set in line with climate science. Unavoidable emissions are then offset. On an annual basis, the company’s efforts will be reviewed and reported.
According to the companies. Equip’s offsetting partner South Pole will ensure that the data on which the Net Zero approach is based are independently verified, transparent and “science-driven.” Furthermore, South Pole will guarantee that Equip’s portfolio of projects contribute to Sustainable Development Goals. In addition, South Pole offers a portfolio of verified reduction and removal schemes that help to balance the company’s emissions. Equip’s chosen projects include Nam Hong Hydropower in Vietnam; Efficient Cookstoves for Women in Nepal; and Kariba Forest Protection in Zimbabwe.
