MEC’s Environmental Ambitions: What It Means for Outdoor Enthusiasts

If you’ve walked into an MEC store lately or browsed their site, you might’ve noticed something new: a quiet but powerful shift in how they do business. MEC—Canada’s iconic outdoor retailer—has officially returned to Canadian ownership and is doubling down on sustainability in a big way.

With bold new targets to cut greenhouse gas emissions by 55% by 2030 and 90% by 2050, MEC isn’t just selling gear anymore—they’re charting a course toward a more environmentally responsible future. But what do these big-picture goals mean for everyday outdoor lovers? Whether you’re gearing up for your next backcountry hike, trail run, or paddling trip, MEC’s environmental push could affect what you buy, how long it lasts, and the values behind the brand you support.

In this post, we’ll break down MEC’s new environmental ambitions, what’s changing in their stores and product lines, and how you—fellow adventurers and conscious consumers—can be part of this shift.

What’s Changing at MEC?

A Return to Canadian Roots

In May 2025, MEC quietly announced a big shift—ownership of the company has returned to Canadian hands. After years of being operated under a U.S.-based private equity firm, this transition marks a symbolic (and strategic) return to the co-operative values many longtime members remember.

The new Canadian ownership group is committed to not only restoring MEC’s community-first reputation but also making sustainability a central pillar of its business moving forward. For many loyal customers, this signals a return to the brand’s founding principles—quality gear, fair prices, and a deep respect for nature.

Ambitious Environmental Targets

Along with new ownership came a public commitment to science-based climate goals. MEC now aims to reduce its greenhouse gas emissions by:

  • 55% by 2030, and
  • 90% by 2050 (compared to its 2019 baseline).

These goals are part of MEC’s pledge to align with the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi)—an international gold standard for corporate climate action. This isn’t greenwashing or vague corporate jargon—MEC has tied its operations to concrete climate science.

Whether it’s through improving the sustainability of its supply chain, switching to renewable energy at retail locations, or expanding its gear repair and recycling programs, these targets will shape nearly every aspect of MEC’s business in the years to come.

How These Changes Affect Outdoor Enthusiasts

MEC’s new direction isn’t just a boardroom decision—it’s something that will affect every customer walking into a store or clicking “add to cart.” Whether you’re a weekend warrior or a multi-day backcountry explorer, these shifts will touch your gear, your experience, and maybe even your mindset.

Greener, Smarter Gear Choices

Expect to see more labels highlighting recycled content, ethically sourced materials, and low-impact manufacturing processes. MEC is pushing for higher sustainability standards across its entire product range, including its in-house brand and third-party offerings.

What does this mean for you? Fewer gimmicks. More thoughtful designs. Gear that’s meant to last longer, perform better, and tread lighter.

Examples to watch for:

  • Jackets made with bluesign®-approved fabrics
  • Backpacks using recycled polyester
  • Sleeping bags and base layers emphasizing responsible down or wool sourcing

Repair > Replace

One of the most practical ways MEC is meeting its environmental goals is by encouraging customers to repair—not replace—their gear. Several stores now offer repair stations or partnerships with local fix-it shops. This not only saves you money but keeps perfectly usable gear out of landfills.

You might even start seeing in-store gear repair workshops, or “How To Patch Your Jacket” sessions pop up at community events.

Buy, Swap, Repeat

MEC has been piloting gear swap programs—an extension of their co-op roots. These give you a chance to trade in lightly used gear for credit or discover affordable, pre-loved equipment.

It’s a win-win: less waste, more access, and a renewed sense of community among outdoor enthusiasts.

As outdoor lovers, we often talk about leaving no trace—packing out what we pack in, respecting the trails, and protecting the wild spaces we explore. MEC’s new environmental ambitions are a natural extension of that mindset, but on a corporate scale.

By setting science-backed targets and returning to Canadian ownership, MEC is planting its flag not just as a retailer, but as a leader in responsible outdoor culture. This isn’t just about emissions charts or policy statements—it’s about how your next jacket, tent, or trail runner is made, used, and reused.

So whether you’re planning a week-long backcountry trek or a day hike in your local park, know that you can now gear up with purpose. Supporting MEC means supporting a greener outdoor future—one step, paddle, or pedal at a time.

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