Reflections on the OutDoor by ISPO

The #OutDoor by ISPO in Munich showcased the importance of #collaboration and #sustainability in the outdoor industry.

Embracing Collaboration ??

The fair emphasized the significance of collaboration and sustainability in the outdoor industry, as perfectly demonstrated by the Sustainability Hub and workshops organized by GreenroomVoice . The exhibiting projects indicate a shift in mindset among industry players, showing their commitment to sharing sustainability approaches. The growing recognition of the urgent need to address the climate crisis together makes this collaborative trend a promising opportunity for scalable positive change.?

Sustainable Projects and Initiatives ??

The Sustainability Hub showcased various projects and initiatives aimed at reducing environmental impact, improving working conditions, creating more circular outdoor products, and overall promoting sustainability.

For instance, Sympatex presented recyclable membranes without PFAS, which positions them advantageously amid a discussion on the ban on PFAS and growing pressure for recyclability. Furthermore, VAUDE , showcased measures for the transition to a circular economy by redesigning outdoor gear for waste prevention and recycling. With the textile industry currently recycling only one percent of used clothing, VAUDE's engagement in showcasing new practices from cradle to gate is welcomed for promoting circularity and sustainable design. Additionally, Globetrotter Ausrüstung 's Re:Think store in Bonn has been presented. The store built on the basis of circularity exemplifies a commitment to environmental consciousness and showcases the potential of sustainable retail practices.

Moreover, myclimate as a trusted partner in global and local climate protection presented its advisory services, educational programs, and impactful climate protection projects. The Grüner Knopf , or "Green Button," presented their approach to ending the “label jungle for consumers” and assuring rigorous social and environmental standards that companies must meet to receive the certification. While the Bündnis für nachhaltige Textilien (Partnership for Sustainable Textiles) or Textilbündnis presented their goal is to improve social and environmental conditions throughout the textile sector through joint efforts of different kinds of stakeholders. Regarding social sustainability, the stand of the Social & Labor Convergence Program (SLC) was a clear highlight, where the representative of the SLC explained their approach to harmonizing social and labor standards in the apparel and footwear industry by bringing together brands, manufacturers, and other stakeholders.

Lastly, La Fresque du Climat or "Climate Fresque" has been present at the Sustainability Hub. Visitors had the chance to understand the climate crisis and the IPCC report better through the educational puzzle tool. It encourages people to learn about the interconnectedness of various climate-related factors and the impact of human actions on the environment.

Finding a balance ??

While celebrating collaboration and sustainability, it's crucial to examine the balance between these values and sales-driven motives. The outdoor industry must not only focus on introducing climate-friendly and circular products but also address social sustainability more. That means equally communicating on supply chain transparency, working conditions, and their impact on workers’ rights.

Thanks, Outdoor by ISPO for connecting different stakeholders in the outdoor industry, and thanks for the good discussions with the great people we met.

Julia Kline Anna Rodewald Stefan Hauser Verena Ordemann Natalie Fischer Michael Spitzbarth Cira Riedel Torben Battenstein Robert Hellwig Janka Eckert Andreas Gerlspeck Lucie Fayolle Giulia Iemmolo Lottie Watkinson ...