Issue No. 52: Presenting the Climate Corps 💪

Sep 22

Hey, Outsiders! Welcome to Issue No. 52 of Outsider Insider. Big news this week from the White House. We have President Biden's groundbreaking announcement of the American Climate Corps, a transformative initiative aimed at tackling climate change head-on. We'll explore how this bold move is mobilizing a new generation of conservationists. But that's not all—join us as we unravel the iconic legacy of Patagonia, a brand that's more than just outdoor gear; it's a symbol of environmental activism.

From policy to passion, this issue takes you on a journey at the intersection of climate action and outdoor adventure. 🏛📜

Let’s go! 🚀

— Scott Crowder

📢 Spread the word! Share this email to help expand the Outsider Insider community. Join us on LinkedIn.

President Biden's American Climate Corps: A Bold Step Toward Environmental Action 🌿🌎

President Biden has once again emphasized his commitment to combatting climate change by unveiling a significant initiative—the American Climate Corps.

🏞️🗽Fulfilling a Major Campaign Promise: The Wilderness Society applauds President Biden for fulfilling a major campaign promise with the establishment of the American Climate Corps. This initiative aims to address climate change head-on by mobilizing thousands of young Americans to work on conservation projects nationwide. It's a proactive approach to both environmental restoration and providing meaningful employment opportunities for young people.

🏕️👏 Outdoor Industry Hails the Launch: The Outdoor Industry Association celebrates the launch of the American Climate Corps, recognizing its potential to strengthen outdoor recreation, conservation efforts, and the economy simultaneously. By engaging young adults in environmental restoration, the program aligns with the outdoor industry's values of sustainability and environmental stewardship.

🌄🌞 California's Conservation Corps as a Blueprint: Los Angeles Times explores the potential of the American Climate Corps through the lens of California's Conservation Corps—a successful program that has empowered young people while tackling pressing environmental challenges. President Biden's initiative could serve as a nationwide expansion of this model, offering tangible solutions to combat climate change while fostering youth development.

President Biden's American Climate Corps is a testament to his administration's commitment to climate action and the belief that the younger generation can play a pivotal role in safeguarding our environment. By providing opportunities for meaningful engagement in conservation efforts, this initiative tackles climate change and empowers the next generation of environmental stewards. It's a significant step forward in the fight against climate change, reflecting the administration's determination to create a sustainable future. 🌟🌱🌍

Fast Company editor-in-chief Brendan Vaughan (left) and Patagonia CEO Ryan Gellert speak at the 2023 Fast Company Innovation Festival on September 19, 2023. [📸 Credit: Celine Grouard for Fast Company]

Patagonia x 3️⃣

In a world where climate change poses a dire threat, Patagonia stands out as a brand on a mission—one that goes far beyond the bottom line. This week, three articles shed light on the company's unwavering commitment to the environment, its innovative leadership approach, and even the fascinating backstory behind its iconic logo.

🌿🤝 Ownership Tied to Environmental Action: Time Magazine dives deep into Patagonia's ownership model in its first year since founder Yvon Chouinard has taken a radical step: pledging the company to environmental causes. This unique approach aligns Patagonia's destiny with the fight against climate change. The company's Environmental and Social Responsibility (ESR) statement explicitly states, "We’re in business to save our home planet." This shift in ownership philosophy reinforces the idea that businesses can be a force for good, serving as powerful advocates for environmental stewardship.

👔🏔️ Ryan Gellert: Politics and Leadership Unite: Fast Company spotlights Patagonia's CEO, Ryan Gellert, who embodies the brand's ethos of mixing politics with leadership. Gellert's bold stance on corporate activism and sustainability illustrates the evolving role of CEOs in today's world. He believes businesses can't remain silent on critical issues like climate change. Gellert's leadership not only shapes Patagonia's direction but also sends a powerful message to the corporate world—that leadership isn't just about profits; it's about purpose.

🌄🏞️ Unveiling the Iconic Patagonia Logo's Roots: Footwear News delves into the origin of Patagonia's iconic logo, which depicts the skyline of Patagonia, a region in South America. Beyond aesthetics, this emblem tells a story of the brand's deep connection to the great outdoors. It's a reminder that Patagonia isn't just a clothing company; it's a symbol of adventure, conservation, and the spirit of exploration.

In a landscape where profit often takes precedence, Patagonia's unwavering dedication to environmental causes, its bold leadership in the world of corporate activism, and the rich history behind its iconic logo serve as a testament to the brand's unique and inspiring journey. It's a story that reaffirms the idea that businesses can be a driving force for positive change, tackling the most pressing issues of our time while inspiring others to follow suit. 🌟🌿👟

Business, Industry, & Economy:

🛴 Bird Acquires Spin in Micromobility: Smart Cities Dive reports on Bird's acquisition of Spin, marking a significant development in the shared micromobility industry. This move signals the ongoing consolidation and evolution of the e-bike and e-scooter market, with Bird strengthening its position in the sector. It highlights the dynamic nature of urban transportation and the growing popularity of sustainable mobility solutions.
🏢 RecNation Storage Expansion: Gary Wojtaszek dives into the world of storage properties for recreational vehicles (RVs) and other "big toys." Under his leadership, RecNation Storage, founded in October 2020, has secured over $800 million in capital commitments to provide spacious havens for RVs and boats. This bold venture is a testament to Wojtaszek's ability to spot emerging opportunities and transform them into multibillion-dollar success stories, all while riding the wave of America's passion for adventure and recreation.
🚴‍♂️ Rad Power Bikes Leading E-Bike Safety: Men's Journal sheds light on Rad Power Bikes' commitment to e-bike safety. As electric bikes continue to gain popularity, ensuring their safe use becomes paramount. Rad Power Bikes is taking proactive steps to enhance e-bike safety, demonstrating their dedication to both innovation and rider well-being. It's a testament to the evolving landscape of cycling and the importance of responsible, enjoyable riding experiences.
👟 Nike Retains Top Spot in Brand Value: Brand Finance reports that Nike has retained its crown as the world's most valuable apparel brand, with a brand value of USD 31.3 billion. This achievement highlights Nike's enduring appeal and market leadership in the apparel industry. It reflects the brand's ability to resonate with consumers and maintain its status as an iconic global brand.
❄️ Winter Sports Participation: SGB Online shares a report indicating that nearly 10 percent of the U.S. population participated in winter sports last season. This data underscores the enduring popularity of winter sports and outdoor activities, even in the face of changing recreational preferences. It's a testament to the resilience of winter sports as a beloved American pastime.
🏃‍♂️ Spartan Race's Acquisition of OCRWC: Spartan Race, a prominent name in the world of obstacle course racing, has announced its acquisition of the Obstacle Course Racing World Championships (OCRWC), as reported by Endurance Sportswire. This strategic move consolidates Spartan Race's position in the OCR industry and presents exciting opportunities for the sport's enthusiasts. It reflects the ongoing growth and evolution of obstacle course racing as a global fitness phenomenon.
🌿 NatureQuant CEO Spotlight: Fitt Insider provides insights into the CEO of NatureQuant, Jared Hanley. This spotlight on Hanley delves into his vision for NatureQuant, a company at the intersection of fitness and environmental sustainability. By quantifying the environmental impact of outdoor activities, NatureQuant aims to inspire individuals and organizations to make eco-conscious choices in their outdoor pursuits. It's a fascinating exploration of the evolving relationship between fitness, nature, and sustainability.
🌄 Vista Outdoor's OIA Advisory Councils: Vista Outdoor's presence on the Outdoor Industry Association (OIA) Advisory Councils takes center stage in their recent press release. This move underscores Vista Outdoor's commitment to industry collaboration and sustainability efforts. As a key player in the outdoor industry, Vista Outdoor's participation in the OIA Advisory Councils reflects its dedication to shaping the future of outdoor recreation and conservation.
🦌 2023 Report on Hunting: The Outdoor Industry Association provides valuable insights in its "2023 Report on Hunting." This comprehensive resource delves into the current state of hunting in the United States, offering a detailed analysis of participation trends, demographics, and the economic impact of hunting. It's a crucial reference for understanding the role of hunting in outdoor recreation and conservation efforts.
🏂 Birthplace of Burton Snowboards: Vermont Journal celebrates the dedication of the birthplace of Burton Snowboards in Londonderry. This historic site holds significance in the snowboarding world as it marks the origins of a sport that has become a global phenomenon. The dedication honors the cultural and recreational impact of snowboarding, highlighting the importance of preserving its heritage.
🏔️ SIA's 2022-23 Participation Study: Shop Eat Surf reports on the release of the Snowsports Industries America (SIA) 2022-23 Participation Study. This study provides key insights into snow sports participation trends, helping industry stakeholders understand consumer behaviors and preferences. It's a valuable resource for businesses and organizations operating in the snow sports industry, shedding light on opportunities and challenges in the market.

SPONSORED BY HITCHFIRE

🔥 Get Fired Up for Adventure Grilling with HitchFire! 🍔🌭

Looking to elevate your outdoor cooking game? Look no further than HitchFire, the grill that's blazing a trail in the world of adventure grilling. 🏕️🔥

🔥 Light Up Your Grill Game: With HitchFire's innovative and portable design, you can literally take your grilling skills on the road. Whether you're camping, tailgating, or exploring the great outdoors, this grill is your ticket to mouthwatering meals wherever your adventures take you.

🔥 Quality Meets Adventure: HitchFire is built to withstand the elements and handle the rigors of outdoor exploration. Made from high-quality materials, this grill delivers exceptional performance and durability, ensuring that your grilling experience is top-notch every time.

🔥 Grill Anywhere, Anytime: HitchFire's easy hitch-mount system allows you to effortlessly attach it to your vehicle or RV, making it a convenient and versatile grilling companion. Plus, its compact size and quick setup mean you can start cooking in no time.

🔥 Don't Miss Out: Ready to take your grilling game to new heights? Visit HitchFire.com to explore their range of adventure grills, learn their inspiring story, and discover the art of adventure grilling. Get ready to ignite your taste buds and embark on a grilling journey like no other! 🔥🌲🍖

Sustainability, Conservation, & Environment:

📚 "Roadkill Crossings" Book Review: The Atlantic offers a review of "Roadkill Crossings" by Ben Goldfarb, diving into the book's exploration of wildlife crossings and their crucial role in mitigating the impact of roads on wildlife populations. This thought-provoking read delves into the intersection of conservation, infrastructure, and ecological sustainability, shedding light on innovative solutions to protect both animals and humans. It's a compelling testament to the importance of harmonizing human development with nature.
🏖️ Cleaner California Coast Initiative: Leave No Trace (LNT) announces the launch of the Cleaner California Coast Initiative in Marin, Sonoma, and Mendocino Counties. This initiative aims to tackle the issue of coastal pollution and promote responsible outdoor recreation practices. By engaging communities and raising awareness about the importance of preserving coastal environments, LNT is taking significant steps to ensure the long-term health of California's beautiful coastline.
🌿 Accelerating Climate Action: Climate Neutral and B Lab are teaming up to accelerate climate action, as highlighted in this blog post. Their collaboration focuses on empowering businesses to achieve climate neutrality and sustainability. By working together, they aim to drive systemic change and encourage companies to take meaningful steps toward reducing their carbon footprint and contributing to a more sustainable future. It's a testament to the power of partnerships in addressing the climate crisis.
🔥 Record-Breaking Heat in August 2023: CNBC reports that August 2023 marked the hottest August in 174 years of recorded climate data, according to NOAA. This alarming milestone underscores the ongoing impact of climate change and the urgent need for global efforts to address rising temperatures and their far-reaching consequences. It serves as a stark reminder that climate action remains a pressing priority.
🌍 Blueprint for Energy Transition: Boston Consulting Group presents a blueprint for the energy transition, offering insights and strategies for navigating the shift towards sustainable and clean energy sources. This comprehensive guide explores the challenges and opportunities associated with the transition and provides a roadmap for organizations and industries looking to embrace renewable energy and reduce their carbon footprint. It's a valuable resource for those seeking to play a role in shaping the future of energy.
♻️ Inside the World of Waste: Fast Company takes readers inside the often-hidden world of waste management, shedding light on the complexities and innovations in waste reduction and recycling. This in-depth exploration uncovers the challenges faced by waste professionals and highlights the potential for transformative solutions that could revolutionize how we manage and reduce waste. It's a fascinating look at an essential but often overlooked aspect of sustainability.
🌍 Climate Change's Impact on Sports: The Week explores the often-overlooked consequences of climate change on the world of sports. From altering playing conditions to affecting athlete health, the article highlights how the rapidly changing climate is leaving its mark on various sports, raising questions about long-term sustainability and adaptation in the athletic arena. It's a reminder that environmental issues transcend boundaries, affecting even our favorite pastimes.
🏞️ Mount Democrat's Nonprofit Acquisition: The Denver Post reports on the sale of Mount Democrat, a Colorado 14er, to a nonprofit organization. This purchase secures public access to the iconic mountain, ensuring that future generations can continue to explore its stunning landscapes. It's a heartwarming example of community efforts to preserve natural wonders and promote outdoor recreation in a rapidly changing world.
🦌 Preserving Vail Wildlife: The Grand Junction Sentinel discusses a critical $17 million deal aimed at conserving land to protect Vail's wildlife. This investment demonstrates the recognition of the importance of preserving natural habitats for the region's diverse wildlife. It also underscores the ongoing efforts to balance outdoor recreation and conservation in a way that benefits both the environment and the community.

Health, Wellness, & Fitness:

🌟 Creating Your Future: Mountain Careers challenges the notion that finding your purpose is the ultimate goal, advocating instead for the creation of one's future. This thought-provoking perspective emphasizes the power of taking proactive steps and forging your path in the world. It speaks to the importance of seizing opportunities, pursuing passions, and embracing the journey of self-discovery while crafting a meaningful and fulfilling life.
🏃‍♀️ Strava's Integration with Nike: Strava announces an exciting development in its fitness community by launching integration with Nike Run Club and Nike Training Club. This collaboration represents a significant stride in the world of fitness tracking and training. It offers Strava users enhanced access to top-notch training and running resources, illustrating the growing role of technology in optimizing athletic performance and fostering community engagement in the fitness realm.

Diversity, Equity, & Inclusion:

🏆 Deloitte Celebrates Girls in Sports: Deloitte's new TV spots, as highlighted in their press release, are turning the tables on fandom by shedding light on the connection between girls who play sports and their likelihood of having successful careers. This campaign not only challenges traditional gender roles but also underscores the invaluable life skills and leadership qualities that sports can instill in young women. It's a powerful message that champions gender equality and highlights the transformative impact of sports beyond the field.
🏔 The North Face presents: The North Face, highlighting the unwavering love and responsibility for the land held by 20-year-old Hän Gwich’in Quannah Chasinghorse and her mother, Jody Potts-Joseph. Together, they are on a mission to protect their sacred homelands, including the Arctic National Wildlife Refuge. This powerful narrative underscores the deep connection between Indigenous communities and the preservation of pristine natural environments, emphasizing the importance of conservation efforts and cultural heritage in tandem.

Government, Grants, & Policy:

🌄 Supporting Gateway Communities: The Fishing Wire reports on the testimony of the Outdoor Recreation Roundtable (ORR) in support of bills aimed at bolstering gateway communities, enhancing visitor data, and fostering agency-community collaboration. This legislative effort recognizes the vital role that outdoor recreation plays in local economies and the need for sustainable partnerships between agencies and communities to maximize its benefits. It's a step toward ensuring that outdoor destinations thrive while conserving the surrounding natural landscapes.
🌱 USDA's Record Interest in Conservation: The USDA is experiencing an unprecedented surge in interest for conservation and clean energy programs. This surge highlights a growing awareness of environmental concerns and a commitment to sustainable practices among landowners and agricultural stakeholders. As climate change continues to reshape our world, this record interest signifies a critical shift toward more responsible land management and cleaner energy solutions in the agricultural sector.
🌳 CTParks - Connecticut's Digital Gateway to the Outdoors: Governor Lamont's announcement of the CTParks website launch is a significant step toward making outdoor recreation more accessible to the public. This digital gateway not only reflects the increasing importance of technology in enhancing outdoor experiences but also acknowledges the role of state governments in promoting and preserving natural spaces. By leveraging technology, Connecticut is poised to connect residents and visitors with the state's natural beauty and outdoor adventures more effectively.
🏔️ The Future of Outdoor Recreation in British Columbia: Sun Peaks News delves into the future of outdoor recreation in British Columbia, shedding light on the evolving landscape of adventure in this picturesque region. As outdoor enthusiasts seek new experiences and sustainable ways to enjoy nature, British Columbia is poised to capitalize on its natural assets. The article underscores the importance of responsible tourism, conservation efforts, and infrastructure development in shaping the future of outdoor recreation in the province.

Travel, Tourism, & Hospitality:

🏕️ First-Time Camping Bliss: REI shares a heartwarming account of a first-time camper's transformative experience in the great outdoors. It's a story that underscores the profound impact of nature on individuals, particularly those new to camping. As urban dwellers increasingly seek solace in natural settings, this article reflects a broader trend of reconnecting with the wilderness as a source of mental and emotional rejuvenation. The allure of camping lies not only in its simplicity but in its ability to instill a sense of wonder and appreciation for the environment.
🏔️ Gravity Haus Heads to Jackson Hole: Gravity Haus is gearing up to make its mark in Jackson Hole, promising a cozy haven for snow-loving travelers. This expansion reflects the growing popularity of destination-focused accommodations tailored to outdoor enthusiasts. As travelers seek not just a place to stay but an immersive experience, brands like Gravity Haus are capitalizing on the desire for convenience and community in winter sports destinations.
⛺ KOA's Winter Camping Forecast: KOA's prediction of a significant surge in fall and winter camping speaks to the resilience of outdoor enthusiasts. Beyond the traditional camping season, there's a growing appetite for cold-weather adventures. This trend underscores the importance of adaptable gear and campsite amenities that cater to year-round campers. As climate conditions shift, campgrounds, and outdoor retailers must prepare to meet the evolving needs of this intrepid segment of the outdoor community.
🌲 Hipcamp's Industry Spotlight: Overland Expo shines a spotlight on Hipcamp, the outdoor accommodation platform that makes it easier for adventurers to find and book unique camping experiences. The rise of Hipcamp highlights a fundamental shift in the way people plan their outdoor escapes. It signifies a move away from conventional campsites toward personalized and off-the-grid experiences. This trend also points to the growing desire for sustainable and eco-conscious camping options, as Hipcamp emphasizes leaving no trace while enjoying nature's beauty.

Products, Gear, & Gadgets:

👟 Adidas and National Geographic's Cosmic Collab: Adidas is teaming up with National Geographic to launch a sneaker collection inspired by the mesmerizing Aurora Borealis. These kicks promise to bring a touch of the Northern Lights' dazzling beauty to your everyday style, blending outdoor adventure with urban fashion.

If this email was forwarded to you, you can subscribe here.

PHC Commissioner