At Snow+Rock, we're passionate about the outdoors and preserving it for future generations. Collaborating together is crucial, which is why we're highlighting the stories of our experts. Our Brecon Store Manager, Claire, and Packs + Footwear Buyer, Joss, share why protecting the environment is crucial, the responsible changes they've made, and how they're helping customers make conscious choices.

With their leadership, we can make a positive impact on the environment, one choice at a time.

Claire: Being environmentally conscious is important to me because we’re responsible for the state of our world. It's essential to keep the natural beauty of our surroundings so our children can grow up enjoying a wild and clean outdoors. For example, recycling is a top priority at home, and we make conscious efforts to reduce plastic use as much as possible in our workplace.

Joss: Being environmentally conscious means making the right choice, not just the easy choice, in all aspects of life, such as purchasing habits and transportation.  

Unfortunately, climate change has already had a significant impact, such as the rapid recession of Alpine glaciers in the past 20 years. This will profoundly affect winter sports and mountain environments, which is more reason for us to act now and promote planet-friendly practices.    

Joss: Snow+Rock, Runner's Need, and Cotswold Outdoor make it easy for customers to shop consciously through the Our Planet program. This program highlights products that are  made up of a high recycled content or have a low impact on the environment through their supply chain.

Customers can easily identify these products in-store and online through the Our Planet tag. Plus, in-store experts can share information about brands' environmental progress and help customers make more conscious shopping decisions. 

Claire: At the store, we love chatting with customers! This means they leave with the right gear for their challenge, preventing them from making impulse buys that don't work for them. We ask about their adventures and how we can help them reuse what they already own. Plus, we encourage them to bring in their old gear for recycling, particularly bags.

Our goal is for the customer to leave with a piece of gear they love and will use for years to come!

Joss: As people become more informed, they seek ways to shop consciously and reduce their impact. Over time, it becomes easier to adopt this mindset, and younger generations are placing greater importance on environmental protection.

So, while harmful products are still around, progress is being made. Hopefully, it will be unthinkable to buy products that harm the environment in the future! 

Joss: After moving into a new flat, I switched to a 100% renewable energy provider as an easy way to reduce my impact. Now, I ride my bike everywhere because most things I need are within a few miles – and it keeps me fit.

Another small but significant change is making gear last much longer by properly washing and reproofing jackets – it might cost you a little bit to do but a lot less than buying brand-new gear each year! 

Claire: Our Repair & Care service brings your used and abused gear back to life. Like in my grandmother's days when there wasn't an option to buy new, everything was repaired. We believe in bringing people back to that mindset to get the most out of gear, they already have.

Whether it's a torn, insulated jacket or a sleeping bag with lost insulation, our team can help. Even if you would rather repair it yourself, come in and have a chat with our staff. We offer tape you can use to repair your coat and other minor damages.

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Joss: The Recycle My Gear Program is an exceptional environmental initiative, as it helps repurpose tons of clothing that would otherwise end up in landfills. This program refurbishes these products and allows them to be appropriately recycled and repurposed as something else.

Additionally, the Repair & Care service helps customers keep their favourite pieces in action for longer. It ultimately saves the customer money, extends the lifetime of a product, allowing it to be used for years to come and reducing environmental impact. It's a win–win! 

Claire: If you don't have transport, link up with friends and car share to reach remote places or consider walking to reduce driving. Try to research and explore routes around your home you may not know about – you'll be surprised how many incredible areas are overlooked.  

When it comes to gear, think about what you want it to do and if it can be used for other activities. Don't make the mistake of taking inappropriate gear for your trip, like I did when climbing Pen Y Fan in Wales – after getting that soaked - I learnt my forever lesson!  

Brands like Mountain Equipment are reliable, with durable gear that can withstand harsh conditions. So do your research and invest in quality gear that will last, making your adventures safe for you and the planet.  

At Snow+Rock, we want to give a massive shoutout to Joss and Claire for sharing their expertise and passion for protecting the outdoor places we all love to hike, climb and enjoy. If you need any advice for you next challenge, drop into your nearest store - our experts are always keen to share their knowledge and help you make the most of your outdoor experiences.