Issue No. 20: Just a bunch of Copy 😾’s
🌲🏕️ Hey Outsiders! Hold onto your hydration packs as we explore the meteoric rise of RV popularity. Remember when planning a road trip meant endless hours crammed in a car? Those days are long gone. 🚐💨 We've also got some tantalizing trail suggestions for your summer and insights into how spending time in nature can have a profound impact on health and well-being. 🏞️❤️
From advancements in green technology like carbon capture to innovative ways outdoor brands are prioritizing repairs, we're serving up your regular helping of sustainability updates. There's even a sprinkling of hydroponic gardening thrown in for good measure. 🌿🔧
Here it is Issue No. 20, delivered straight to your inbox. You are welcome! 👊
In this week’s edition:
🤔 Pseudo Patagonia and Lulu-Lies: The Counterfeit Crisis Hitting the Outdoor Sector 🙅🏽♀️
🐄 vs 🌱 - Clash of the Carnivores vs. Herbivores: The Environmental Stakes on Your Plate
And more!
— Scott Crowder
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💼👟Dupes, there it is: Implications for Brands and Consumers👕💼
Welcome to the wild world of counterfeiting, where everything is not as it seems. The usual suspects like Lululemon, Chanel, and Gucci are certainly no strangers to the copycat saga, but knock-offs are making waves in the outdoor industry as well - from knockoff Patagonia shirts sold at Sam's Club to knock-off gear hitting digital shelves.
First off, let's talk about the power of social media, specifically TikTok, in this thriving world of counterfeits. The Atlantic's piece on "The Surprising Allure of TikTok Dupes" explains how the social media giant is a breeding ground for the #dupe culture. Viewers (especially those not keen on dropping serious coin) are lapping up content around knock-off finds, potentially undermining the prestige and perceived quality of well-known brands 📉💔.
Meanwhile, over at Lululemon, the athleisure brand is grappling with a swarm of 'dupes' threatening to blur its brand identity, as covered in this Fast Company piece. These cheaper alternatives, dubbed as '#Lululemondupes' on TikTok, are racking up millions of views, potentially impacting Lululemon's sales and reputation 🎯. But Lululemon is fighting back 💪.
Counterfeits aren't just a big-city fashion problem. Sam's Club found itself in legal hot water for allegedly selling knockoff Patagonia shirts, according to this Bloomberg Law report. This goes to show that even our beloved outdoor industry isn't immune to copycat culture 🏞️💔.
But what does this mean for consumers? On the one hand, there's the thrill of scoring a bargain that looks like a luxury good. However, this New York Times feature warns that consumers can unknowingly purchase 'superfakes,' which are so close to the real thing, it's scary. Plus, these knock-offs can perpetuate unethical labor practices and negatively impact the economy, according to Red Points 🚨.
Meanwhile, brands are stuck playing a never-ending game of whack-a-mole with counterfeiters, as this Financial Times article explains. They're investing heavily in strategies to combat counterfeit products, protect their brand integrity, and keep consumers safe 👊💼.
The bottom line is that while these dupes might be easier on your wallet, they could have serious implications for brands and consumers. Not only do these counterfeit goods undermine the authenticity and value of the original brands, but they could also have potential negative impacts on consumer safety. 🚨📉
So next time you're shopping for gear, take a moment. That too-good-to-be-true deal might just be a dud... or worse. 🤔💡
🥩 Meat vs. Plants: The Great Food Fight of Our Time 🥦
Welcome to the culinary ring, folks! Today, we have heavyweight champions – the meat and dairy industry – squaring off against the lean, green contenders – plant-based alternatives. 🥊
Let's not mince words, the Washington Post recently highlighted the enormous impact of food production on our climate, water, and wildlife. Meat and dairy production, in particular, are singled out as major culprits. It's a tough pill to swallow, but your steak dinner is demanding a hefty environmental tax. 🌍💧
Methane madness is running rampant, with the top meat and dairy producers in the EU contributing an alarming amount of methane emissions. VegNews reveals that these companies alone are responsible for more greenhouse gas emissions than some European nations! 🐄💨🌍Read more.
Over in the Netherlands, an attempt to limit livestock production is clashing with EU regulations, as reported by The Guardian. The Dutch are pushing for smaller herds and less meat and dairy production, but they're encountering resistance from traditional farming advocates.🐄🇳🇱
Meanwhile, the alternative food industry is not sitting on its laurels. The so-called "Milk Wars" are heating up with Oatly, the oat milk maverick, making some seriously bold moves. Oatly has gone from being the quirky newcomer to a leading player in the plant-based beverage arena, pouring pressure on the traditional dairy industry. Marketing Brew gives us a front-row seat to the drama. 🥛🌾
But it's not all smooth sailing for the plant-based contenders. Fast Company highlights the struggle these brands face when it comes to dispelling meat and dairy misinformation. Mislabeling and false advertising are being served up as some plant-based companies aim to cut a larger slice of the market share pie. Read on to see how they're fighting back. 🥩🍔🌿
The Takeaway: As the grill heats up in this food fight, we, the consumers, are left with the dilemma of choice. Whether we side with the traditional meat and dairy industry or explore the increasingly innovative plant-based alternatives, it's clear that our decisions at the supermarket could have a profound impact on our planet's health. 🌍💪🏽 So next time you're in the grocery aisle, think about the environmental recipe that goes into your meal. 🍽🌱
Business, Industry & Economy:
🚲 Mountain Biking's Growing Pains 🌄 - Good news, MTB enthusiasts! Mountain biking is growing but not among the usual suspects. Instead, it's attracting a whole new crowd, and they're ready to pedal and shred. However, the challenge lies in retaining these newly minted enthusiasts for the long haul. Core riders, keep that welcome mat out! Read more
💼 Utah's Job Bonanza 🏞️ - No job, no problem! At least, not in Utah. Thousands of jobs are coming to the state thanks to outdoor recreation. Can we get a yee-haw? It's proof that playing outside isn't just fun; it's also an economic powerhouse. Dig in
📸 AI: The New Adventure Photographer? 🧠 - Say cheese to your new photographer, AI! Artificial Intelligence is creeping into adventure photography, creating stunning and mesmerizing shots that could give Ansel Adams a run for his money. The times, they are a-changin'. Discover more
🚐 RV-olution: 💰 - RV travelers and their love for the open road have driven $100M in sales at small businesses across North America, courtesy of Harvest Hosts. It's not just a road trip; it's an economic stimulus package on wheels. Learn more
🚲 Double Whammy for E-Bikes 🎯 - 2023 is shaping up to be the year of the double whammy for e-bikes, as the industry juggles supply chain issues and regulatory hurdles. Can they ride out the storm? Only time will tell. Find out more
🔌 E-Bike Incentive Tool 🎁 - PeopleForBikes has unveiled a new tool that might just be the e-bike fairy godmother we didn't know we needed. This tool will help riders find e-bike incentives in their area. Incentives to ride? Count us in! Check it out
💡 VF Corp and the Startup Spinoff 🔄 - VF Corp, the parent company of The North Face and Timberland, is spinning off Wildwood Venture Capital, a new startup aimed at making the great outdoors even greater. Can't stop, won't stop innovating! Read on
🌳 Kickstarting Sustainability with Tentree 🌲 - A decade ago, tentree burst onto the scene with a Kickstarter campaign. Now, they're teaching us a masterclass on how to build a sustainable brand, proving that business success and environmental stewardship aren't mutually exclusive. Who says you can't have your tree and plant it, too? Learn more
🔋 Accelerating the Electric Revolution ⚡ - It's not just a fad, folks. Electric is here to stay. But what can we do right now to speed up the EV train? Entrepreneur breaks it down for us. Spoiler alert: it involves policy changes and consumer choices. Read more
🌊 Seabin: The Ocean's Best Friend 🗑️ - Meet Seabin, a floating rubbish bin that's taking out the trash – ocean trash, that is. It's a simple solution to a complex problem, and it's making waves in the world of environmental innovation. Discover more
👟 Crocs Hits a Bump on the Road to Net Zero 🐊 - Crocs, the company known for its comfy, quirky footwear, has had to put the brakes on its net-zero commitment. It's a setback, but not a defeat. Here's to hoping they can get back on track soon. Find out more
🛶 Solo Brands and TerraFlame: A Match Made in Outdoors Heaven 🌳 - Solo Brands, the direct-to-consumer outdoor lifestyle company, has acquired TerraFlame, bringing together two powerhouses in the outdoor living space. S'mores, anyone? Read on
💦 Outdoor Research and Nikwax: A Partnership for the Environment 🌎 - Outdoor Research and Nikwax have teamed up in a strategic partnership, aiming to improve sustainability in the outdoor gear industry. When it comes to taking care of our planet, every bit helps! Learn more
👟 Shoemakers Making Strides in 2023 🚀 - Get your kicks ready because the shoe game is looking strong in 2023. From athletic giants like Nike to lifestyle brands like Skechers and Crocs, shoemakers are stepping up and investors are taking notice. Who knew feet could be so fashionable and profitable? Step into it
🚵♂️ Dallas, TX: The Next Mountain Biking Mecca? 🌇 - In a move that has us saying "yee-haw," Dallas is set to create new mountain biking trails within pedaling distance of 600,000 people. That's a whole lotta potential bikers, and a new model for urban outdoor access. Giddy up! Ride into more
🍃 Nike on the Defense Over Greenwashing Claims 🧼 - Not everything that glitters is green. Nike is facing a lawsuit over allegedly "greenwashing" its sustainability claims. A reminder that in business, transparency is key, and consumers are watching. Dig into the details
SPONSORED BY NIX BIOSENSORS
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Enter Nix Biosensors, the groundbreaking biosensor that's all about keeping you at the top of your game by providing real-time hydration data. Think of it as a personal hydration coach who's got your back (and your sweat) during those grueling workouts. 🏋️💪
Stuck on the fence? 🤔 Well, here's some food (or drink?) for thought: Gear Patrol gave it a whirl and the verdict is in - it's a game changer!
So, whether you're a seasoned marathoner or just someone who wants to stay on top of their hydration game, Nix has got you covered. Because who wants to play the guessing game when you can play the winning game? 🏅🏁
Stay ahead of the curve, and most importantly, stay hydrated with Nix Biosensors. Your sweat will thank you. 😉
Check out Nix Biosensors - because it’s high time sweat started working for you! 💧👊
Health, Wellness & Fitness:
🌲 Nature: The New Prescription for Substance Abuse 💊 - Struggling with substance abuse? Nature may just have the remedy. Research shows outdoor experiences can aid in recovery and overall mental health. Maybe it's time to swap that daily grind for a forest grind? Explore the research
🍫 Snack Time, All the Time 🕰️ - America's love affair with snacks is not slowing down. From trail mix on hikes to protein bars post-workout, we're a nation fueled by small bites. Just remember, moderation is key, even when it comes to your favorite snack. Bite into more
🥾 AllTrails Serving Up Summer Fun ☀️ - Need some inspiration for your summer adventure list? AllTrails has got you covered. With curated lists of top hiking spots, you'll be hitting the trails in no time. Say hello to sunshine and goodbye to the couch! Start your journey
Sustainability, Conservation & Environment:
💡 BBC Business: The Circular Economy in Focus 🔎 - From reducing waste to promoting sustainability, the circular economy is redefining business as we know it. Join the BBC as they dig into how businesses are rethinking their operations for a greener future. Loop into it
💰 USDA and Interior Department Make Big Investment in Nature 🌳 - The Agriculture and Interior Departments are putting their money where their mouth is - and where our trees are. They're investing a cool $2.8 billion in improving, restoring, and modernizing national forest and grassland infrastructure. Here's hoping the money grows on trees (or at least helps them grow)! Dig into the details
⚖️ Interior Department Balances Public Lands 🏞️ - The Interior Department has a plan to ensure public lands are a win-win for all. The goal? Balancing conservation efforts, recreation, and energy development. A tough act, but if anyone can do it, it's Mother Nature with a little help from the Interior Department. Read about the plan
🚵♂️ Utah Makes Moves for Recreation ⛷️ - Utah's known for its red rock canyons, but now it's planning for green. The state's new recreation plan aims to manage crowding, climate, and other pressures. If it works, it might just be the blueprint for outdoor fun, sustainably. Get the scoop
🌏 Reconnecting with our Feminine Side? 💃 - Ecotellers presents an interesting take on our relationship with Mother Nature and the ongoing disconnect with the feminine side of our psyche. A deeper understanding of our place in the world? Count us in. Dive into the story
🎙️ Bain & Co x The Nature Conservancy 🐾 - When a leading management consulting firm and a conservation powerhouse come together, you get a podcast that's sure to pique your interest. Tune in to hear more about the exciting intersection of business and nature conservation. Listen here
📖 Outdoor Alliance Unveils Outdoor Recreation Playbook 🥾 - Fighting climate change and expanding outdoor recreation? Count us in! Outdoor Alliance is walking the walk (or should we say, hiking the trail?) with their new playbook designed to do just that. It's like the gameplan for a brighter, greener future. Score a look at the playbook
🏜️ Conservation Lands Get a...Spokespebble? 🪨 - Who says rocks can't talk? A new campaign to protect conservation lands is rolling out a rather hard-hitting spokesperson...a spokespebble. And it seems to be stone-cold serious about its mission. Find out more
🇪🇺 EU Warned to Keep Eyes on the Nature Prize 🌍 - The EU's got a lot on its plate, but its environment chief is making sure nature restoration isn't pushed aside. Because what's a world without a little more green? Read about it
🌲 Tread Lightly and US Forest Service Region 8 Join Forces 🤝 - When it comes to protecting public lands, two heads are better than one. That's why Tread Lightly is partnering with the U.S. Forest Service Region 8. Here's to leaving our forests better than we found them. Learn about the partnership
💨 Carbon Capture: All Hype or Future of Power Plants? 🏭 - Carbon capture technology could be a game-changer for power plants, but does it really work? Fast Company gets down to brass tacks and digs into the science. Get the scoop
🌱 Hydroponic Gardening for the Win 🥬 - Caribbean communities are going high-tech in their battle against food waste, using hydroponic gardening to grow their food. Could this be the future of sustainable eating? Only thyme will tell. Grow your knowledge
🏞️ New Acres Acquired for Sand Creek Historic Site 🏞️ - More room for history and preservation as the National Park Foundation scoops up new acres for the Sand Creek Historic Site. Hey, who doesn't need a little more elbow room? Find out more
🦌 New BLM Rule: Thumbs Up from Wildlife, Hunters, and Outdoor Enthusiasts 👍 - The Bureau of Land Management (BLM) is scoring some major brownie points with its new public lands rule. Let's just say wildlife, hunters, and outdoor enthusiasts are liking what they see. Read the news
🚗 How Clean are Electric Cars, Really? 🤔 - We all know electric cars are cleaner...right? But according to The Wall Street Journal, it might not be as clear-cut as you think. Dig into the details
👟 Timberland and Vans Fight Against Greenwashing 👊 - Timberland and Vans are stepping up to make sure their cotton isn't just green in name only. Because who doesn't love a good fight against greenwashing? Check out the story
🌱 The Conservation Alliance is Growing! 🌳 - The Conservation Alliance is blooming like a tree in spring, with new members joining the cause. And more power to them, because when it comes to conservation, the more the merrier! Read about the growth
Diversity, Equity & Inclusion:
💰 REI's $4M Investment for a More Equitable Outdoors 🌳 - REI is not just selling you gear, they're paving the way for a more equitable outdoor scene. How, you ask? By investing a cool $4 million in nonprofits! Because, let's face it, the outdoors are for everyone. Get the details
✈️ Alaska Airlines Shows off New Native Art 🎨 - Alaska Airlines is sporting a new look, thanks to the dazzling design skills of Alaska Native artist Crystal Worl. Talk about flying in style! Take a peek
🎬 Watch This: Adidas' Impossible is Nothing Campaign 🏃♀️ - We've got your dose of feel-good inspiration right here. Check out Adidas' "Impossible is Nothing" campaign featuring some truly awe-inspiring individuals. Because, hey, who doesn't love a little inspiration to get their day started? Watch it here
🏁 Vans' Together as Ourselves Campaign 🌈 - Vans is all about fostering inclusivity and supporting the LGBTQ+ community with its "Together as Ourselves" campaign. Because when it comes to embracing diversity, Vans is not just talking the talk, but walking the walk. Learn more
Athletes & Sports:
🏔️ Sherpa Climbers are Making Mount Everest History 🎖️ - The Sherpa climbers of Nepal are scaling new heights, setting records by becoming the first two climbers to ascend Mount Everest for the season. It's a momentous achievement for a community that has long played a key role in supporting Everest expeditions. Check it out
🛌️ Avocado Mattress and Protect Our Winters Team Up for Climate ❄️ - When your Zzz's are also helping to save the planet 🌎. Avocado Green Mattress, known for its commitment to sustainable practices, has partnered with Protect Our Winters (POW) and Matt Lieto, a former pro triathlete turned climate activist. Their mission? Fighting climate change to preserve winter sports. Now that's what we call a dream team! Learn more
Travel, Tourism, & Hospitality:
🚐 The Great American Roadtrip, Powered by RVs 🛣️ - As more and more travelers opt for the flexibility of a home-on-wheels, the New York Post has laid out the top RV rental companies for your next big adventure. Say hello to scenic routes and starry nights. See the list
🏞️ Jackson Hole: Your Next Summer Destination? 🌞 - USA Today has the scoop on the best things to do in Jackson Hole, Wyoming. From hiking in Grand Teton National Park to relaxing in local hot springs, this mountain town is calling your name. Discover more
🧗♀️ Adventure is Out There: Best U.S. Destinations for Thrill Seekers 🚀 - Outside Online is here to stoke your wanderlust with their list of the best places to visit in the U.S. for adventure. Whether you're a rock climber, mountain biker, or just love being out in nature, this list has something for everyone. Find your next adventure
Government, Grants & Policy:
🎒 America's Outdoor Recreation Package Gaining Momentum 🚀 - The Outdoor Recreation Roundtable reports that America’s Outdoor Recreation Package is making strides in Congress. This comprehensive package of bills is designed to boost outdoor recreation infrastructure, conservation efforts, and rural economies. Get the details
🌲 Doubling Down on Outdoor Recreation in Arkansas 🎣 - Arkansas' First Gentleman plans to double the state's outdoor recreation economy in a decade, according to Talk Business. This ambitious plan recognizes the major role outdoor recreation plays in the state's economy and aims to maximize that potential. Learn more
🏞️ Taking Outdoor Recreation National: Luis Benitez Has a Plan 🎯 - Notorious outdoorsman and leader in Colorado's outdoor industry, Luis Benitez, is pushing for the creation of a National Office of Outdoor Recreation. As reported by the Colorado Springs Gazette, Benitez's bold vision seeks to address everything from conservation and stewardship to equity and access in the outdoors on a national scale. Dive deeper into his plan
💵 Grant News: Boosting Colorado's Outdoor Rec Workforce 🏕️ - The Office of Economic Development and International Trade (OEDIT) and the Outdoor Recreation Industry Office (OREC) have announced grant recipients for outdoor recreation workforce development in Colorado. Meet the recipients
🌍 EU Votes to Clamp Down on Carbon Neutral Claims 🛂 - Edie reports that the EU Parliament has voted in favor of more stringent rules on companies claiming to be carbon neutral. This move aims to prevent greenwashing by ensuring environmental claims are backed by legitimate actions, not just offsetting. Find out more
🚲 Transportation Dept. Paving the Way for Safer Streets 🛣️ - The U.S. Department of Transportation has announced the Safer Streets for All program, a grant initiative aimed at increasing road safety for all users, not just cars. This effort aligns with the growing popularity of outdoor recreation and active transportation methods. Get the scoop
💪 From Outdoor Enthusiast to Outdoor Advocate 📣 - Ever wanted to turn your passion for the outdoors into advocacy? The Outdoor Alliance's latest blog post offers a primer on making the transition and making a difference. Get started
Products, Gear & Gadgets:
🔋 Feeding the Energy Hunger: Battery Recycling Goes Mainstream 🔄 - Nonprofit Hungry for Batteries is taking the lead on promoting responsible battery recycling. The organization emphasizes that battery recycling can recover valuable materials and reduce environmental harm.
📖 Gear Patrol Unveils Issue Twenty 🎉 - Need a good read this week? Gear Patrol Magazine Issue Twenty is out, promising exciting content focusing on adventure, product discovery, and insightful narratives.
🏡 Housing Takes to Water 🌊 - Ever thought of living on water? Fast Company is showcasing a floating home concept that's resilient to floods and could be the future of housing as climate change intensifies.
🍅 Tomato Waste Turned Bioleather ♻️ - Leather alternatives are getting more innovative! A new biodegradable leather is being developed from tomato plant waste, promising a more sustainable alternative to traditional animal leather.
🔧 Outdoor Brands Offering Free Gear Repairs 🎒 - In an effort to promote sustainability, several outdoor brands are offering free gear repairs, as reported by GearJunkie. Extend the life of your gear and help the planet one repair at a time!
Quote of the Week:
“Imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. ”
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