In a move to combat climate change, the European Outdoor Group (EOG) has taken decisive action by making it mandatory for all its members to commit to the Race to Zero (RTZ) initiative. This initiative aims to play a crucial role in reducing net carbon emissions within the apparel industry, aligning with global efforts to address climate challenges.
Following a vote among its members, the EOG has set a deadline for all association members to join the Race to Zero initiative by the end of 2024. This milestone decision, proposed by the EOG board and executive team, received overwhelming support with an impressive 88% of the votes in favor. Out of 106 eligible members, 82 participated in the vote, with 72 supporting the proposal, 10 opposed, and 24 either abstaining or not casting a vote.
Engaging Members: A Thoughtful Voting Process
The voting process, conducted online over three weeks, was designed to provide ample time for members to carefully consider their positions and express their views. The EOG emphasized the importance of engaging its members actively, fostering a democratic approach to the decision-making process.
The journey towards this mandate began during the summer meeting in June when initial proposals were introduced, suggesting the inclusion of a mandatory commitment to the Race to Zero initiative as a prerequisite for membership by the end of 2024. Subsequently, the EOG organized a comprehensive schedule of presentations and discussion sessions, enabling members to access key information, raise concerns, and pose questions.
EOG's Resolute Commitment to Carbon Neutrality
The EOG highlighted the high level of engagement observed during the Race to Zero debate, underscoring the commitment and seriousness of its members toward addressing the critical issue of carbon emissions. The inclusive and transparent approach taken by the EOG, coupled with the substantial majority in favor of the initiative, reflects a collective determination within the European Outdoor Group to proactively contribute to global climate commitments.
This step positions the European Outdoor Group at the forefront of sustainable practices within the apparel industry, setting a commendable example for other organizations. As the Race to Zero gains momentum, the EOG's resolute commitment is expected to inspire positive change and contribute significantly to the broader mission of achieving a carbon-neutral future.
About the European Outdoor Group
European Outdoor Group (EOG) is an association that represents the interests of the outdoor industry in Europe. The primary mission of the European Outdoor Group is to advocate for the outdoor industry in Europe and promote the interests of its members. The organization often focuses on issues such as sustainability, innovation, industry standards, and collaborative initiatives to address common challenges.
The EOG's membership typically includes a diverse range of stakeholders within the outdoor industry, such as manufacturers, retailers, brands, and other related businesses. Member companies benefit from networking opportunities, information exchange, and collective efforts to address industry-specific concerns.
The EOG engages in various activities aimed at fostering collaboration and addressing key issues in the outdoor industry. This may involve organizing events, conferences, and seminars. The organization may also undertake research projects, provide industry insights, and facilitate discussions on relevant topics Many outdoor industry associations, including the EOG, have increasingly placed a focus on sustainability. This involves promoting eco-friendly practices, reducing the environmental impact of products, and supporting initiatives related to environmental conservation.