Part 3: Blog Post

The Pledge to Protect: Our Latest Commitment to Sustainability

How MEC (and you!) can protect natural wonders like the Mendenhall Glacier

As a kid, I had the super cool opportunity to travel to Alaska with my family. I remember standing in front of the Mendenhall Glacier, part of the Juneau Icefield, and being completely in awe. With my jaw wide open, I took in the sight of the beautiful ice meeting the smooth, glass-like lake below. 

It’s hard to think that this natural wonder is withering away. As global temperatures rise, glaciers around the world are melting – and experts say this is a direct result of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.  

According to the United Nations’ climate action research, “Greenhouse gas emissions reached a new record high of 57.4 gigatonnes in 2023. They must drop by 43% by 2030 (compared to 2019 levels) to keep the temperature increase from exceeding 1.5°C. Under current national climate plans, the world is on track for a global average temperature rise of 2.5-2.9°C above pre-industrial levels” (Key Findings | United Nations). 

These aren’t just statistics, they represent real consequences that planet Earth will face because of our actions.
Huge steps need to be taken to tackle the climate crisis. We have the power to prevent further damage from happening. That’s why, at MEC, we’re proud to announce our latest initiative, the Pledge to Protect.

What is the Pledge to Protect?

We are introducing a bold, new sustainability initiative to make sure future generations have the chance to experience the same jaw-dropping natural wonders as I did as a kid. 

We’ve set ambitious goals to reduce emissions within our stores, supply chain, and products. Specifically, we will:

• Cut emissions from our stores and buildings by 55% by 2030 and 90% by 2050. 
• Lower emissions per product sold by 55% by 2030 and 97% by 2050. 
• Team up with other eco-conscious brands and companies to make the outdoor industry climate-positive by 2030. 

Benefits to the Community

We want to protect our local communities and the wonders of nature we explore for years to come. For example, our initiative will:

• Create cleaner air: Reducing our GHG emissions fights pollution and rising temperatures. 
• Preserve outdoor spaces: Protecting green spaces, parks, and trails so that future generations can enjoy them. 
• Create more jobs in green industries: Supporting innovation in eco-friendly products and companies helps grow these fields.

Doing Your Part

We need your help to achieve our goals. Here’s how you can be a part of the Pledge to Protect:

• Make sustainable purchases: Look for MEC products made with lower-impact, recycled, and responsibly sourced materials. Choose durable, high-quality items instead of cheaper alternatives with larger carbon footprints. 
• Participate in community events: MEC is proud to host community events, allowing you to attend in-store workshops, listen to guest speakers, or participate in community hikes. 
• Spread the word: Share your commitment to sustainability with your friends and family. The more people aware of MEC’s work and how they can contribute, the better.
• Connect on social media: Using #MECProtects, you can be featured on our accounts when you post about your eco-friendly adventures or sustainable habits.  
• Stay up-to-date: Stay tuned for updates on our website’s Pledge to Protect page (mec.ca/pledgetoprotect) or social media platforms (@mec). Check in on initiative news and progress.

Join us in working to make our planet a better place. Check out mec.ca/pledgetoprotect to learn more and take action.