We only have a limited degree of influence over the ecological use of our products out in the real world. And although VAUDE has taken many steps to encourage the eco-friendly use of our products, it is still you as a consumer who has the largest influence – as you put these products to use in your outdoor adventures.
Association for Conservation – VAUDE is a member of the board of this international environmental protection initiative
The Association for Conservation (AFC) is an initiative of the European Outdoor industry. The aim of this subsidiary organization of the EOG (European Outdoor Group) is to protect and conserve natural wilderness environments. Using financial contributions from its members, the AFC supports environmental projects that champion the protection of endangered habitats and natural landscapes. VAUDE is not only a founding member of the AFC; it also plays a decisive role in the organization, with VAUDE’s International Sales Manager, Jan Lorch, as a member of the board. We are involved in the funding of other environmental projects as well. Such projects allow VAUDE to take a stand for environmental protection just where its products are put to use – in the great outdoors.
DAV – VAUDE is an official outfitter for the association that campaigns for ecologically sound alpine sports
With more than 780,000 members, the German Alpine Association (DAV) is the world’s largest alpine sports association. The DAV is also a nationally recognized nature conservation association, advocating environmental and ecological participation in mountain sports. The DAV and VAUDE have been partners for years. As an official outfitter, VAUDE equips all six DAV national teams, promoting responsible participation in outdoor mountain sports for the general public. With this partnership, VAUDE nurtures the environmentally conscientious use of its products.
Vivalpin – VAUDE fosters genuine sustainability in mountain sports
Vivalpin is the first climate-neutral mountain and ski school in the Alpine region. Vivalpin has been conducting all events, courses and guided tours with neutral CO2 emissions since 2008. VAUDE endorses active contributions to reducing climate change and has outfitted this mountain school as a premium partner: taking effect immediately, the Vivalpin mountain guides will now rely daily on professional clothing, alpine hardware and backpacks from VAUDE and EDELRID. In addition to this, Vivalpin guests will have access to high quality rental gear and test materials. “Vivalpin is an ideal partner for us. As an outdoor gear supplier, we have always seen ecological accountability as a full cycle, in which sustainable production is just as valuable as the use of our products in the great outdoors,” said Antje von Dewitz, CEO of VAUDE and EDELRID. Together with Vivalpin, VAUDE is taking a stand for sustainability in mountain sports.
Nikwax® – VAUDE distributes environmentally friendly waterproofing and maintenance products
Nikwax® is a collection of waterproofing and maintenance products that contain no hazardous fluoropolymers. The Swedish environmental protection organization, Naturskyddsföreningen, tested numerous waterproofing products taking a special look at their perfluoroctyl content. Nikwax® was the only manufacturer to come through the test without using this hazardous chemical. The products are all water-based, thus totally harmless to health. They pose no danger to the ozone layer and lengthen the life span of waterproof apparel and gear. High quality combined with a great environmental track record convinced us to choose Nikwax®. We specifically recommend the use of this high quality, environmentally friendly waterproofing treatment to our customers.
Nature and Forest Kindergarten – VAUDE sides with kindergartens as an official partner
The National Association for Nature and Forest Kindergartens in Germany brings children together with nature. They experience the ecosystem in their daily life, learning about the interdependence of mankind and nature. Even before they begin school, these small learners have experienced the effects of nature, as well as how and why it should be protected. Through this intense imprinting at a tender age, these children grow up to become adults with an affinity and respect for nature. VAUDE stands behind the concept and cooperates closely with the National Association for Nature and Forest Kindergartens as an official partner of the association.
