REI recently published an article that looks at the environmental impact of what it takes to produce their Co-op 650 Down Jacket 2.0 (pictured). Writer Sarah Grothjan takes a look at every stage of manufacturing, from producing and processing raw materials, to finishing the material and the final product. She mentions some of the certifications, like bluesign, to look out for as a consumer when shopping for outdoor goods.
Read the article here.
I really like how this is put together. Instead of just using general terminology, they picked a specific jacket and used examples that are more easily relatable. She mentions how finishing the fabric is generally the most impactful part of the process, because dyeing the fabric involves a lot of heat.
I'd say my favorite part was at the end when she talks about buying used gear. It's only a sustainable choice if you need it in the first place, and if it replaces the purchase of something new. If you already have two rain jackets, buying a third one, albeit used, isn't a sustainable choice.
Read the article here.
I really like how this is put together. Instead of just using general terminology, they picked a specific jacket and used examples that are more easily relatable. She mentions how finishing the fabric is generally the most impactful part of the process, because dyeing the fabric involves a lot of heat.
I'd say my favorite part was at the end when she talks about buying used gear. It's only a sustainable choice if you need it in the first place, and if it replaces the purchase of something new. If you already have two rain jackets, buying a third one, albeit used, isn't a sustainable choice.
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