In 2006 we gathered data on the amount of waste we produce, the percentage we recycled and what materials make up our waste stream. The purpose was to establish a baseline to measure our progress in the coming years.

Our retail baseline was completed through a collaborative research project with graduate students in sustainable business from the Bainbridge Graduate Institute.

To launch our study, we analyzed all material discarded by four representative REI stores. This information helped us develop a survey that was conducted at 14 additional stores selected as a representative sample. The survey was based on a sample week of waste stream. The resulting information was extrapolated across the remaining 71 stores in order to develop the overall waste stream baseline estimate.

In 2007 we plan to develop a systematic way of measuring and reducing our waste.

This information is not definitive, but is being used to develop our system of metrics and reporting. Additionally, it helps us identify early opportunities for improvements.