Snowboard Green

United By Blue - very cool ocean-friendly apparel brand

2012-01-30T18:10:00.000-08:00

United By Blue is an ocean-friendly apparel brand that associates the sale of each product with an environmental action. Every time someone buys one of their items, the company removes one pound of trash from the ocean and other waterways by organizing and hosting cleanups.

United By Blue was founded by American-born entrepreneur Brian Linton in May 2010. He decided to use his company’s money to contribute to real and significant ocean conservation efforts. The brand offers a range of organic cotton t-shirts, canvas bags and artisan jewellery. After more than 60 cleanups, with help from over 1000 volunteers, a total of 82,527 pounds of trash has been removed from the water by the company to date.

Amplid Green Light Project Wins 2012 ISPO Eco Award for their AGL Freeride Board and AGL Fat Ski

2012-01-26T09:26:00.000-08:00

Two years ago Amplid co-founders Anian Thrainer and Peter Bauer set-out to create the greenest skis and snowboards on the market. This week the Amplid Green Light Project; an on-going R&D mission with the aim of finding high performance alternatives to polluting materials, was awarded the 2012 ECO Award by ISPO’s select committee of industry aficionados.

For the 2012/13 season the Amplid Green Light product range will include a ski, a snowboard and a telescopic pole all manufactured with greener materials but with superior riding performance.

Eco minus the bullshit.

Green Light Q&A with Peter Bauer & Anian Thrainer

What is the Amplid Green Light Project? And why is Amplid going down the eco route?

The Amplid Green Light Project is an ongoing process where we are trying new ecologically responsible materials and techniques in our manufacturing. Every day greener and greener material solutions are being created and we want to make use of them. We feel as an industry, we are using and abusing nature to ride and to create goods; the least we can do is try to minimize the ecological footprint we are leaving.

What will the AGL range consist of for the 2012/13 season?

For the coming season we will be offering a freeride snowboard in three lengths, based on our Creamer shape. On the skiing side of things we are pressing a fat ski with our Lexington mold and adding a telescopic freeride ski pole made out of flax-fibers to the line.

What are the key eco features in the range?

We dismantled and analyzed every single material going into our products and put a lot of time into researching what parts could be produced in a greener way - from the topsheet based on ricinus-castor oil to recycled ABS-sidewalls and sintered bases. One of the highlights was finding a better resin which is manufactured from 60% agricultural material and creates zero toxic byproducts and requires less energy to harden. We have also been working on a core consisting of FSC wood with weight reducing inserts of foam, manufactured from recycled PET bottles. We bolstered the foam with flax-fiber stringers for more pop and vibration dampening. In the not too distant future the entire core will be manufactured from this featherweight foam and Flax fiber composite.

Really light and durable, we’re stoked to be bringing such green products to the market with absolutely no compromise to performance.

Why is AGL equipment any different to other “eco-friendly” ski/snowboard equipment on the market?

Amplid isn’t interested in creating products that only look green. Importing tropical wood veneers or flying bamboo sidewalls across the planet is the opposite of what we are trying to achieve. We’d rather look into recycled materials which satisfy our technological expectation, reduce the transportation mileage of all materials built into our boards and skis and make sure that what we are creating REALLY makes a difference to the world. Our aim is to eventually create our entire line from high performance, environmentally superior processes and materials!

How long has Amplid been working on the Green Light Project?

We started with the first ideas maybe two years ago, but didn’t feel like releasing anything to the market until the products moved beyond prototype status. This is where we are at now.

What does winning the 2012 ISPO Eco Award mean to Amplid?

The judging panel at the ECO-awards is made-up of industry leaders in production, marketing and retail, who are at the top of their game. For these professionals to take a very deep and critical look at the Amplid Green Light Project, its materials and processes, and decide that it’s worthy of the top spot makes us extremely proud of what we have achieved so far. We’re excited that this is just the beginning.

We heard rumors of some early release AGL goods hitting the stores this winter?

Yes, around mid-February we will release a limited quantity of the board and the ski, however these will be created in one length and availability will be scarce. Riders who are interested should check with their local Amplid dealer or visit our website www.amplid.com !

Niche Snowboards wins the ISPO Eco Award for hardgoods

2012-01-25T10:52:00.000-08:00

Niche Snowboards just won the ISPO Eco Award for hardgoods!

Jury Statement

“The Niche Story Snowboard is a well thought through product with carefully selected, sustainable materials such as the FSC certified wood core and Hemp Stringers to replace Carbon Fibre. Critical substances have been removed, such as the surface lacquer, or replaced with recycled materials.”

Prof. Dr. Michael Braungart, Erasmus University, Germany

Niche Snowboards Niche Story

All-mountain freestyle snowboard.

Sustainable Development

Every component in our boards either replaces traditional materials with an environmentally friendlier alternative, or uses recycled materials. The combination of materials we use makes a lighter, more elastic, and more durable snowboard.

Performance

Snappy Sap: Replaces traditional resins with a flexible and impact resistant resin composed of 45% b materials. Magma Fiber: Replaces fiberglass with basalt for lighter stronger boards. Wood Topsheet: Replaces plastic with naturally treated bamboo that does not use lacquer or other harmful chemicals.

Corporate Social and Environmental Responsibility

Niche is 100% cmitted to being as eco-friendly as possible. Traditional snowboard manufacturing is toxic! Niche has revo- lutionized this process with new materials and new construction technologies that increase performance and quality.

Snow Sport Innovator, XBoards, Inc., Introduces High Performance Snowboard Made from All-Natural Flax Fiber

2012-01-25T10:19:00.000-08:00

LAKE TAHOE, Calif.--(BUSINESS WIRE)--XBoards, Inc., a snow sport technology company focused on innovative engineering, sustainability and enhanced rider performance, today announced the availability of the limited edition BioBoard™, the first snowboard made from all-natural flax fiber composites. The BioBoard combines powerful shock-absorbing properties with improved resiliency and strength for superior performance and rider comfort.

“There is tremendous room for growth and innovation in snow sports”

The BioBoard features proprietary FlaxFlex™ technology, which helps reduce leg fatigue by ensuring consistent flex across the entire length of the board. Flax fiber is lower in density and provides superior vibration dampening properties compared to fiberglass and carbon, the most common snowboard reinforcements. By taking advantage of this renewable, pop-enhancing flax composite, the BioBoard allows riders to navigate uneven terrain more fluidly and with greater speed.

The BioBoard is the only commercially-available snowboard made from Lineo’s 100% renewable and biodegradable flax fabric. Lineo’s flax materials have been honored as the JEC Composites Winner of 2010 Innovation Award and have been successfully applied as vibration dampeners in a number of other sports products, including surfboards, tennis rackets and racing boats. The strength, resiliency and endurance of the BioBoard have been validated throughout the engineering process to ensure the boards’ performance under the most adverse conditions.

“We began with a simple question – if you were starting from scratch, how would you build a board that maximized performance while minimizing environmental impact?” said Isaac Gradman, CEO and co-founder of XBoards, Inc. “We realized we could harness the power of this all-natural material to create a superior riding experience without sacrificing strength or sustainability.”

But Gradman hints that this is only the beginning, and promises that XBoards will transform the snow sport industry in progressively radical ways in the coming seasons. “There is tremendous room for growth and innovation in snow sports,” he says. “We are challenging every notion about what’s possible, from materials, to design to the very way people get around the mountain. In the coming seasons, XBoards will be rolling out innovative products that push the boundaries of snow sports in ways we haven’t seen in decades. It’s going to be an awesome ride.”

About XBoards, Inc.

Northern California-based XBoards, Inc., founded in 2010, is a snow sport technology company focused on innovative engineering, sustainability and enhanced rider performance. XBoards’ products have been ride-tested at the Squaw Valley resort in Lake Tahoe, California. XBoards’ products harness the power of award-winning, ultra-resilient and entirely renewable and recyclable flax materials to enhance overall performance while creating a smoother, more comfortable ride. XBoards is dedicated to revolutionizing snow sports and creating new, original products with its riders in mind. For more information on XBoards and its products, visit www.x-boards.com.

Photos/Multimedia Gallery Available: http://www.businesswire.com/cgi-bin/mmg.cgi?eid=50133375&lang=en

Contacts

Nereus for XBoards

Laurie Watkins

Office: 512-322-5749

Mobile: 858-349-1989

lwatkins@nereus-worldwide.com

Lela Gradman, 503-619-0695

lgradman@nereus-worldwide.com

Protect Our Winters wins “Company Of the Year” at Outdoor Retailer this past week

2012-01-24T14:43:00.000-08:00

Pacific Palisades, CA – Jan 24, 2012 - Protect Our Winters (POW) was named “Company of the Year” at the inaugural Avalaunch Winter Market Awards presented by Outdoor Retailer. The awards took place during ORWM12 in Salt Lake City last week.

“This award validates our mission and shows that the winter community supports our actions,” comments Chris Steinkamp, POW’s Executive Director. “There are a lot of great companies in snow sports and while revenue is one benchmark, it’s great to see success being redefined and equal consideration given to companies that are focused on doing good.”

For the Company of the Year award, judging criteria extends beyond the bottom line and includes philanthropic endeavors and stewardship initiatives. Consideration is given to projecting a philosophy that is in alliance with the winter recreational community. The awards are in collaboration with Outdoor Retailer and are created to honor those who have broken new ground in the snow sports industry. Winners are selected by industry peers who voted during the Outdoor Retailer show last week. Additionally, Jeremy Jones POW Founder won Ambassador of the Year for the inaugural Avalaunch WMA’S (Winter Market Awards).

“I can’t think of a company more deserving than POW. Education and discussion are invaluable when it comes to protecting our winters and influencing how we act in every day life. We’re excited to see what mountains Jeremy Jones and crew will overcome this year and beyond,” explains Avalaunch’s Tate Chamberlain.

Shreddy Times film "Moving Forward" from Traumatic Brain Injury

2012-01-19T08:35:00.000-08:00

This full-length film has been over a year in the making following the journey of Danny Toumarkine after suffering from a traumatic brain injury on January 3rd of 2011.

Danny and his brother Conor had shared a dream of creating a season long snowboarding video for nearly 15 years. After starting a production company called Shreddy Times in 2007, together they documented Danny's path to stardom within the snowboard industry. While filming in Montana, with a group of close friends, Danny fell on a routine jump and hit his head. After nearly two weeks in a medically induced coma, four brain surgeries and thirty-three days later, Danny was discharged from the hospital.

Watch, as Danny overcomes the most challenging and difficult time of his life. With epic documentation of Danny's near death experience, this video takes you through the ups and downs of his recovery process.

For more information on Danny's story check out:

dannyisthebomb.com

The North Face contributes to Protect Our Winters “Hot Planet/Cool Athletes"

2012-01-18T10:11:00.000-08:00

Big props to The North Face who continued their support of Protect Our Winters, with a generous contribution directed towards POW’s youth education platform, “Hot Planet/Cool Athletes”. The North Face has been the Presenting Partner of “Hot Planet/Cool Athletes” since it’s inception in 2011 and with POW have reached over 8,000 students in 19 high schools nationwide.

This past year, the in-school climate assembly program has provided athletes such as: Gretchen Bleiler, Saga Cattabriga-Alosa, Nick Martini, Dana Flahr, Jeremy Jones and Dylan Hood with a platform to communicate directly with high school students about climate change’s effects on our winter season and has inspired many to develop their own solutions-based ideas and to become future climate leaders.

The 2012 schedule kicks off at schools in the Aspen/Roaring Fork Valley during Winter X Games the week of January 23rd.

Thank you to The North Face for their continued and generous support of POW and for their commitment to environmental leadership.

Müller Nike Zoom Kaiju boot

2012-01-11T16:01:00.000-08:00

I'm pumped to see Nike incorporating Recycled PET bottle synthetic leather and a new EPM(environmentally preferred material) liner lining into the Müller Nike Zoom Kaiju boot! Now these aren't your typical Kaiju boots. Nico has had his hand in these since the idea was put on the table. Along with Nike Snowboarding, artist ITES and Nico set out to create one unique looking boot that sports all the Kaiju features that keep Nico doing what he does. As one of the best snowboarders out there, one might say these could be one of the best boots as well.

Müller / Nike Zoom Kaiju Features: Check it out on nikesnowboarding.com

TPU backstay for protection and high rebound flex.
Articulating Flywire Cuff for increased heel hold while decreasing bulk around ankle.
Webbing lace system with neoprene eyestay for easy tightening with Nike Snowboarding lace lock at fourth loop for zonal tightening.
Support truss with stitching reinforcement in upper quarter for maximum support with minimum material.
Outlast temperature controlled liner and foot bed.
Free Technology - Increased Board Feel.
Asymmetrical "No Sew" weld on toe for edge protection.
Zoom Air embedded in phylon for cushioning.
Warming Strobal Technology in liner and shell.
Neoprene cuff design allows freedom of movement without clumsy "floating cuff" piece.
Recycled PET bottle synthetic leather
NEW EPM (environmentally preferred material) liner lining
Digitally printed upper
Art by ITES

Offered in a limited run from Nike Snowboarding you can't just snag a pair of these boots off of the internet. You have to find a local Nike Snowboarding retailer lucky enough to carry them.

Don't forget to check out Nike Snowboarding on facebook for more updates on the Nico boot and more limited edition pieces coming out soon.

go-shred.com - car sharing to the snow

2012-01-09T17:00:00.000-08:00

Travelling cheap and environmentally aware has only advantages:

Driver saves money by sharing costs with passengers
Cheap way to get to the hill
Less CO2 emission
You get to travel with people who have the same passion

“go-shred” is based in Europe and is the first trilingual internet portal for carsharing to the snow. You travel cheaply, sustainably and in the company of other winter sports enthusiasts. On go-shred you can offer or search for rides to and from winter sports resorts.

Also everybody who posts a ride with “go-shred” automatically participates in the “go-shred lottery” and hast the chance of winning prices from Volcom, Electric, K2, Nitro, 32, Etnies, Neff, DC, Burton, Vans, Analog, Advita as well as lift passes from ski resorts all over Europe.

For more info go to go-shred.com!

Patagonia Registers As First California Benefit Corporation

2012-01-05T09:56:00.000-08:00

Story by Transworld Business

This week Patagonia became the first Californian company to elect benefit corporation status, putting in place legislation that will legally require the company to “have a corporate purpose to create a material positive impact on society and the environment,” among other specific environmental reporting guidelines through third parties.

Here’s the details:

SACRAMENTO, Calif., Jan. 03 /CSRwire/ – Today, Patagonia became the first company in California to elect benefit corporation status. Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard led the largest group of businesses to register on the legislation’s first effective date among the 7 states that have passed benefit corporation laws. The dozen CEOs filed their documents at 9:30 a.m. as soon as the offices of the California Secretary of State opened. Scores of other businesses have expressed interest in registering in the next few months.

“After the ‘year of the protester’, it’s inspiring that a group of business leaders are taking action to create a positive alternative,” said Jay Coen Gilbert, co founder of B Lab, a non-profit organization that supported the legislation.

Benefit corporations are a new kind of corporation legally required to: 1) have a corporate purpose to create a material positive impact on society and the environment; 2) redefine fiduciary duty to require consideration of the interests of workers, community and the environment; and 3) publicly report annually on its overall social and environmental performance using a comprehensive, credible, independent, and transparent third party standard. Current law requires corporations to prioritize the financial interests of shareholders over the interests of workers, communities, and the environment.

“Patagonia is trying to build a company that could last 100 years,” said Patagonia founder Yvon Chouinard. “Benefit corporation legislation creates the legal framework to enable mission-driven companies like Patagonia to stay mission-driven through succession, capital raises, and even changes in ownership, by institutionalizing the values, culture, processes, and high standards put in place by founding entrepreneurs.”

“It is safe to declare a successful end to the ‘beta test’ phase of socially responsible business,” said Mike Hannigan, President and Co-Founder of Give Something Back Office Supplies. “We have been giving customers their money’s worth and a whole lot more for more than 20 successful years. This important legal framework marks another giant step of mission driven business towards the mainstream.”

“We rushed to be in Sacramento on January 3,” said Sandra Stewart, principal of Thinkshift Communications. “It’s what people are demanding. It’s not just a trend — ingraining values into a legal corporate structure is key to a sustainable future.”

New York, New Jersey, Virginia, and Hawaii passed similar legislation in 2011, joining Vermont and Maryland who did so in spring 2010. Benefit corporation legislation has also been introduced in Michigan, Pennsylvania, North Carolina, and the District of Columbia. Legislation has enjoyed strong bi-partisan support in every state.

“This is California at its best, showing there is a way to create jobs and grow the economy while raising the bar for social and environmental responsibility,” said Assemblymember Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael). “With this new law, we are attracting new socially-conscious companies, investors and consumers – we’re sending a strong message that California is open for this emerging form of business.”

The California bill had significant business support, including that of more than 200 individual California businesses, 12 business associations, including the Silicon Valley Leadership Group and the U.S. Green Building Council, standards organizations like GreenSeal, and more than 3,000 California citizens through the advocacy efforts of Care2.com, all interested in creating better choices for the growing number of entrepreneurs and investors who seek to create businesses that create both social and shareholder value.

The bill was sponsored by the American Sustainable Business Council, New Voice of Business, and B Lab; the effort to pass the bill was led by a legal working group co-chaired by John Montgomery from Montgomery & Hansen LLP, Donald Simon from Wendel Rosen Black & Dean LLP, and Jonathan Storper from Hanson Bridgett LLP; and the citizen advocacy campaign was led by Care2.com.

For additional background on benefit corporations, including national and local legislative updates, see www.benefitcorp.net

First Day Registered Companies:

DopeHut, Dharma Merchant Services, Give Something Back Office Supplies, Green Retirement Plans, Opticos Designs, Patagonia, Rimon Law, Scientific Certification Systems, Solar Works, Sun Light & Power, Terrassure Sustainable Land & Resource Development, Thinkshift Communications

Initial Sponsors:

B Lab: is a nonprofit organization dedicated to using the power of business to solve social and environmental problems. B Lab drives systemic change through three interrelated initiatives: 1) building a community of Certified B Corporations to make it easier for all of us to tell the difference between “good companies” and just good marketing; 2) accelerating the growth of the impact investing asset class through use of B Lab’s GIIRS impact rating system by institutional investors; and 3) promoting supportive public policies, including creation of a new corporate form and tax, procurement, and investment incentives for sustainable business. For more information, check www.bcorporation.net.

American Sustainable Business Council: is a growing coalition of business networks and businesses committed to advancing a new vision, framework and policies to support a vibrant, equitable and sustainable economy. The Council brings the business perspective, experience and strength to stimulate our economy, benefit our communities, and preserve our environment. Today, the organizations that have joined in this partnership represent over 65,000 businesses and social enterprises and more than 150,000 entrepreneurs, owners, executives, investors and business professionals and other individuals. www.asbcouncil.org

New Voice of Business: is a non-profit organization that promotes economic, social and environmental sustainability in the United States. Its mission is to inform, engage, and mobilize an influential network of business people – a unified, new voice of business to advocate for a sustainable economy and encourage triple bottom line business practices. New Voice advocates for policy change that makes it easier and more profitable for business to operate sustainably. For more information please visit: www.newvoiceofbusiness.org.

Care2: With more than 17 million members and over 700 nonprofit partners worldwide, Care2 is the largest online community that empowers millions of individuals to lead a healthy, sustainable lifestyle and support important causes. Care2 is a B Corporation, or social enterprise, that generates revenues by connecting individuals with nonprofits and business that are making the world a better place. Care2 has worked with B Lab to provide thousands of signatures to advocate for Benefit Corporation legislation passed in California and New York. Founded in 1998, Care2 has collected over 80 million signatures on petitions featuring timely and important issues. Please visit the Care2 community at www.care2.com.

Assembly member Jared Huffman (D-San Rafael): represents the 6th Assembly District, which encompasses southern Sonoma County and all of Marin County. First elected in 2006, Huffman chairs the Assembly Water, Parks and Wildlife Committee and also serves as Co-Chair of the Legislative Environmental Caucus.

Project Snow - encouraging youth to be active through snowboarding

2012-01-04T18:15:00.000-08:00

Project Snow is a great non-profit encouraging youth to be active through snowboarding. They work under the umbrella of the Children's Cabinet in Reno, Nevada along with the Washoe County Social Services. Together they are taking a stand against the growing rate of obesity among children and teens. Project Snow is doing this by promoting and providing a unique opportunity such as snowboarding for youth at risk and youth that come from low socioeconomic families.

They will be offering 4 trips this year:

-January 8th, 2012

-February 12th, 2012

-March 25th, 2012

-April 8th, 2012

For more information and to get involved go to www.projectsnow.org or visit them on facebook.

Aspen/Snowmass releases their monthly sustainability newsletter

2011-12-29T06:35:00.000-08:00

Aspen/Snowmass releases their monthly sustainability newsletter. I applaud Aspen Ski Company for leading the environmental charge among corporate ski resorts. http://www.aspensnowmass.com/environment/images/Greenletter.pdf

The Rider's Project - Selling Snow, Skate, and Surf gear and donating 100% of the profits to a charity of your choice

2011-12-21T10:55:00.000-08:00

I recently came across this very cool retail site - theridersproject.com selling Snow, Skate, and Surf gear/ apparel at reduced prices and donating 100% of the profit of every sale to a charity of your choice. HOpefully they will increase their product offerings in the future but regardless it's a great idea. Read more about The Rider's Project below.

The Riders Project was founded by a few individuals who grew up in an outdoor playground and fell in love. We have enjoyed active lifestyles through skiing, snowboarding, skateboarding, and surfing for as long as can be remembered. We have been immersed in these sports and the lifestyle that accompanies them for years, and have seen it all. We have worked graveyard shifts every winter and we have lived in houses packed full of roommates. We have woken up at dawn to catch a few waves before work and been booted out of plenty of skate spots. We have had so much fun doing what we love and want to continue that stoke for many years to come.

Unfortunately not everyone has been so lucky. Our planet currently sits in a precarious position, people are fighting to find clean water, food, and shelter. Children are growing up without an education, autistic, and in abusive environments. We are fighting disease, wars and political indifference. Things are not going well. It has never been more important to give back and help support all of the positive causes out there trying their hardest to make a difference. The problem is, we are just as broke as the next guy and can’t just cut a giant check to call it good. That is why we formed The Riders Project as our way of helping you give back; an organic funding model that helps raise capital and awareness for some of the worlds greatest causes.

We know that it hurts to open up your wallet for new gear each season, and with life’s expenses growing endlessly it isn’t easy giving to charity. By tapping into the generosity of companies within the action sports industry who understand and share our goal, we are able to get our hands on the gear you need to feed your addiction at ridiculously discounted prices giving you no excuse not to buy all that your heart desires. Then, we donate 100% of the profit made from your purchase to any charity you choose. You get the gear you need without breaking the bank, charities get the funds they deserve, and the good karma keeps the snow falling and the swells rolling in. It is a good start. Thank you for your help.

Grow for a Cause - John Jackson to raise money and awareness for Protect Our Winters

2011-12-20T23:42:00.000-08:00

John Jackson, Braun, and TransWorld team up to “Grow for a Cause” in an effort to raise money and awareness for Protect Our Winters (POW).

Transworld needs you to submit photos of the craziest / funniest / coolest beard and mustache styles you can find. At the end of the month they'll pick their favorite and make John shave his beard to match that style. If they choose your submission you win a Braun Cruzer, and a ton of TransWorld swag.

Share this video with all your friends! Each view this video receives the longer John will have to keep the beard/mustache style they choose for him. One minute for every view!

Email your favorite beard and mustache styles to: growforacause@transworld.net

Be sure to include your name, email, and phone number so Transworld can contact you if you win.

or click HERE to enter and get full details.

The Wilderness Society's "my wilderness" series spotlights pro snowboarder Forrest Shearer

2011-12-16T14:19:00.000-08:00

There's a growing trend among pro skiers and snowboarders. Riders like Forrest Shearer are speaking out about climate change and the need for wildland conservation. As part of The Wilderness Society's "my wilderness" series, Shearer shares his passion for backcountry riding and shows how he inspires young people to take action.

Please check out "my wilderness" at: http://wilderness.org/mywilderness/forrest

About “my wilderness”

The Wilderness Society recently launched a national marketing campaign called “my wilderness,” designed to inspire Americans to care for our wild places. We are capturing a wide variety of people talking about their own personal experiences and stories of their favorite places.

The Wilderness Society is the leading public-lands conservation organization working to protect wilderness and inspire Americans to care for our wild places. Founded in 1935, and now with more than 500,000 members and supporters, TWS has led the effort to permanently protect 110 million acres of wilderness and to ensure sound management of our shared national lands.

www.wilderness.org

The House of Marley - delivering premium quality, eco-conscious audio products

2011-12-13T19:11:00.000-08:00

The House of Marley, delivers premium quality, eco-conscious products that embody Bob Marley's and the Marley family's values of equality, unity, authenticity, sustainability and charity. Their use of FSC certified wood, recycled aluminum, and recycled packaging materials coupled with proceeds going to non profits make this company my favorite headphone company out there.

MARLEY is comprised of three collections — Jammin', Freedom, and Destiny — and features passive noise canceling in-ear headphones, over-ear headphones, docking stations, speakers and boom boxes.

A portion of proceeds from The House of Marley will benefit 1Love.org. The epicenter of a global movement, 1Love.org is dedicated to spreading Bob Marley's message of unity and peace by lifting up a new generation of "young gongs" to strike the hammer for charities, causes and ideas that can change the world. Learn more at www.thehouseofmarley.com, join us on Facebook at www.facebook.com/TheHouseofMarley and follow us on Twitter at www.twitter.com/houseofmarley.

Visit the Marley Family's primary website at www.BobMarley.com and join the Official Bob Marley Facebook page at www.Facebook.com/BobMarley. Learn more about other Marley Family ventures by visiting Marley's Mellow Mood 100% natural relaxation teas and sodas at www.MarleysMellowMood.com, Marley Coffee at www.MarleyCoffee.com,and 1Love.org at www.1love.org.

Protect Our Winters Launches Winter Gear Designed By Volcom

2011-12-09T14:46:00.000-08:00

Protect Our Winters (POW) and Volcom announced today they have combined efforts to create a POW branded line of men’s and women’s performance outerwear to keep their environmentally motivated fans cozy this winter. The POW/Volcom line includes a men’s Hydro Full-Zip Hooded Sweatshirt, men’s beanie, a women’s 1/4 Zip Hooded Pullover and Women’s Technical Crew. Proceeds of the merchandise will support Protect Our Winters through Volcom’s “Give Back Series” contributions. The line is on sale now at all Volcom retail outlets and on POW’s website, www.protectourwinters.org.

“We’re excited and honored to have Volcom support us in this way. Volcom is one of the most relevant brands in action sports and this partnership gives our supporters an opportunity to contribute to POW by purchasing some amazing gear”, said Chris Steinkamp, POW’s Executive Director.

“We are stoked to create merchandise that helps support such a great cause as Protect Our Winters. We strongly believe and hope all our customers will get behind POW’s important mission to reduce climate change, said Dutch Schultz, Vice President of Product, Volcom. “Climate change in our mountains is an extremely important issue. If we want to keep riding for decades to come, the winter sports community needs to be a collective force to help reduce climate change.”

About Protect Our Winters:

Protect Our Winters is the environmental center point of the winter sports community, united towards a common goal of reducing climate change's effects on our sport and local mountain communities. With over 30,000 supporters worldwide, POW re-invests contributions in educational initiatives, activism and supporting community-based initiatives that have tangible results. For more information, visit protectourwinters.org

About Volcom:

Volcom is an innovative designer, marketer and distributor of premium quality young men’s and women’s clothing, accessories and related products. The Volcom brand, symbolized by The Stone, is athlete- driven, creative and forward thinking. Volcom has consistently followed its motto of “youth against establishment,” and the brand is inspired by the energy of youth culture. Volcom and Electric branded products are sold throughout the United States and internationally. Volcom’s news announcements are available through the company’s website at www.volcom.com and you can learn more about Volcom’s Sustainability & Corporate Social Responsibility initiatives at www.volcom.com/newfuture.

Bond Outerwear - Recycled PET & Carbon Neutral

2011-12-07T13:58:00.000-08:00

If you aren't familiar with Bond Outerwear you should visit their site and check out their products as they are one of the most progressive if not the most progressive snowboard outerwear companies in terms of sustainability. All of their outer shells and inner liners utilize a blend of recycled PET (made from plastic bottles and containers), and virgin polyester that is completely recyclable. Both are materials that have been used before and can be used again for years to come. All snaps, zipper pulls, and buttons are made from discarded plastic pellets from heavy industry. Bond offsets all their carbon usage for everything from their office power to shipping through Carbonfund.org, and ship directly from their suppliers to their retailers which reduces and saves on fuel usage and unnecessary packaging waste. Bond holds their entire collection to high standards and work everyday to find new ways to innovate and make the most environmentally considered snowboard outerwear on the market.

Hudson Jacket - Sea Spray

Spy and DCP Team Up with Protect Our Winters

2011-12-03T18:50:00.000-08:00

Author: Katie Schlicht, Snowboardmag.com

CARLSBAD, Calif.—SPY Optic™ today announced a partnership with Protect Our Winters (POW) and SPY Professional Snowboarder David Carrier Porcheron (DCP). DCP’s relationship with POW reaffirms his commitment to promoting environmental consciousness. He is active in a number of POW interests, including its Riders Alliance initiative—an athlete coalition—and Hot Planets/Cool Athletes program—a youth education series administered in conjunction with Alliance for Climate Education (ACE).

“The POW Hot Planets/Cool Athletes program affords DCP the opportunity to engage kids about climate change and help influence the next generation of sustainability leaders,” say Kevin Casillo, SPY Snow Segment manager. “DCP is a longtime proponent of reducing his carbon footprint and, working with POW, he has a chance to reach an entirely new, young audience and connect to the snow industry at the same time.”

With respect to the POW Riders Alliance, DCP joins a list of esteemed fellow athletes, including Gretchen Bleiler and Jeremy Jones, in leveraging their collective influence to affect public policy and promote environmental responsibility. Throughout the year, POW rallies the Riders Alliance behind renewable energy initiatives and enterprises designed to heighten awareness of greenness through community education, outreach and action, from local levels to Capitol Hill.

“I have become aware of my impact on the planet in recent years and, a snowboarder, I appreciate being in nature so much—my career completely depends on it,” says DCP. “SPY and POW help me give back to the environment with a portion of sales of my signature snow goggle going to POW’s reinvestment with organizations that share our sustainability mission and focus.”

For more information about POW, its programs, success stories, members, sponsors and grant recipients, log-on at www.protectourwinters.org. For details about the SPY + DCP + Yes™ Zed™ goggle, go tohttp://www.spyoptic.com/zed/d/1057_c_200. For more information about SPY, log-on atwww.spyoptic.com and www.facebook.com/spyoptic.

The North Face Release Sustainability Report

2011-12-02T07:31:00.000-08:00

North Face's sustainability report, introduced in a letter to the company by President, Todd Spaletto

In an effort to further their sustainability efforts, The North Face issued their first public sustainability report.

The report, outlining the company’s progress since 2010, focuses on using ‘bluesign’ approved and recycled fabrics, reducing greenhouse gases, and encouraging outdoor recreation. “Providing access to the outdoors, protecting the environment, and addressing the impacts of climate change are at the heart of our business,” said President Todd Spaletto in a letter to the company. The report also focuses on goals for the future, leading up to 2015.

Dear Friends and Partners,

For 45 years, The North Face has been empowering people to explore the outdoors. This focus on the natural world has opened our eyes to the many challenges facing our planet. It’s not just our responsibility to ensure our products and business practices have the smallest possible impact on the environment — we strive to be a leader in meeting those challenges.

Providing access to the outdoors, protecting the environment, and addressing the impacts of climate change are at the heart of our business. We are proud of the peaks we have reached on this expedition and know that many still lie ahead. As with any successful expedition, we are tackling these ascents with the support of a talented, motivated team.

What makes The North Face unique as a brand and as a place to work is the inherent personal connection our employees and consumers have with protecting the natural world they love to explore. Thanks to this passion, environmental responsibility is integrated into our company culture. The next challenge is to seamlessly embed our commitment to sustainability into every aspect of our business.

We have a philosophy we call the “virtuous cycle” that connects passion for the outdoors with environmental responsibility. It is a simple concept based on the idea that if you get people outdoors, they will love that experience. The more they interact with nature, the more they grow to care about conservation and protecting the environment. Our vision is to inspire the next generation of conservationists and create a demand for sustainable products.

We give our consumers the very best products we can create. Behind these products is a meticulous process for ensuring that our materials and supply chain manufacturing methods create minimal environmental impact. Over the past few years, we have made great progress on engaging our suppliers with the bluesign^® standard, an independent system for managing chemical input, resource efficiency and worker safety in the supply chain. Over 21% of our fabric met the bluesign^®standard in our 2010 product line and we have set a target of 65% by 2015. We plan to reevaluate our goals and progress periodically to ensure we are doing everything we can to reduce our environmental impacts.

We are sharing our commitment to sustainability through this report to encourage our employees, customers and partners to engage in a dialogue about the ways we can all be more responsible stewards of the natural world and our communities. Despite our success and dedication to sustainability, we know there are always areas for improvement. We are on track to meet our normalized greenhouse gas reduction goal and working hard to reduce our absolute emissions. As a global brand, we need to do a better job of expanding our sustainability strategy across the world. This report outlines our challenges in more detail and helps us continue our commitment to improving upon our goals moving forward.

Never Stop Exploring!

Todd Spaletto

President
The North Face, Americas

Transworld Business: Ten Ways The Industry Is Giving Back

2011-11-30T22:32:00.000-08:00

In the spirit of Thanksgiving, Transworld Business decided to take a look at ten examples of the action sports industry giving back over the past year. Do you or your company have a story to share about giving back? Please email us with story suggestions at business@transworld.net.

Adaptive Action Sports and Amy Purdy:

Amy Purdy founded Adaptive Action Sports with boyfriend Daniel Gale in 2005, while she was simultaneously trying to get back on a board following a diagnosis of bacterial meningitis that left her in a three-month coma. Due to the lack of circulation during her illness, both of Purdy’s legs were amputated below the knee. After a series of surgeries and nearly two years later, Purdy competed in her first snowboard competition since losing her limbs, and has been working ever since to give others in her position the same opportunity to get involved in action sports. The non-profit organization, which is run primarily through donations and dedicated volunteers, holds camps for youth looking to get involved in adaptive action sports, and recently launched a forum on its website for the adaptive community as a place to ask questions and find resources.

Recent Recognition: On Friday, November 18, Youth marketing agency FUSE announced it will award $25,000 to Adaptive Action Sports as part of its 2012 Service Grant Program. Congrats Amy and the AAS team!

To see the other 9 examples of the action sports industry giving back over the past year click HERE!

Asymbol Gallery founded by Travis Rice donates 5% of all print sales to POW and ASEC

2011-11-28T16:11:00.000-08:00

Asymbol Gallery, the online action sports art gallery founded by Travis Rice showcasing some really amazing art and photography. Asymbol believes in supporting the people and organizations that are working to make us all more aware of how our personal actions and choices affect the environment and world around us so they donate 5% of all print sales to Protect our Winters, The Action Sports Environmental Coalition or evenly split, it's the customer's choice.

The Action Sports Environmental Coalition (ASEC) is the brain child of Frank Scura and his friends Bob Burnquist, Jen O'Brien, and Damon Way. Motivated by the influence action sports icons have over young consumers, they set out to answer the question: "What would happen if the action sports industry became a role model for sustainability?"

ASEC is about progressive eco-education and empowering people to adopt a sustainable lifestyle in a way that embraces their existing lifestyle. It supports companies in the action sports industry that are producing green products and those that are trying to find more eco-friendly ways of producing their existing product lines.

Find out more about ASEC here

Protect Our Winters (POW) is dedicated to reversing the global warming crisis by uniting the winter sports community and focusing our collective efforts towards a common goal. It was started in 2007 by pro snowboarder, Jeremy Jones who, during winter trips, witnessed first-hand the impact of climate change on our mountains, and decided to try to do something about it.

POW was founded on the idea that if we harness our collective energy and put forth a focused effort, the winter sports community can have a direct influence on reversing the damage that's been done and ensure that winters are here for generations behind us.

Find out more about POW here

SGT's carbon offset program - solar kitchens

2011-11-20T08:14:00.000-08:00

Click HERE for Video

Skiers and riders from around the world have come to rely on South America Snow Sessions for satisfying their summer backcountry fix. As the powder-hungry probably know by now, emissions from engines of all sorts, including planes, are stacking up as the number one threat to cold and consistent winters around the world. Now, with a carbon offset program in partnership with Wulcon Energy and the Ecoandina Foundation, the climate-conscious can choose to make sure their travel to and from Argentina isn't just pumping more CO2 into the atmosphere.

"We took an inventory and saw that about 85 percent of the carbon footprint of our trip to Argentina was caused by the flights," says SGT (SASS Global Travel) Sustainability Consultant Ryan Dunfee. "So retrofitting windows or some other project at our Bariloche compound really didn't seem to have as much of a net impact as focusing on the flight emissions."

Courtesy of SASS

This is a solar kitchen.

Companies hoping to offset the impact of their operations typically partner with a carbon offset provider. The money from purchasing carbon offsets is invested into projects that should prevent more carbon from being released into the atmosphere, such as renewable energy like solar and wind. It sounds like a one-to-one erasure of a companies' impact, but problems arise when an offset provider deals in projects that have already been fully funded, or don't ever come to fruition

In SGT's case, Dunfee wanted to tackle the large impact of client and coach plane travel, and make sure their offsets were put to work locally. Dunfee connected with Martin Wainstein of Wulcon Energy, one of Argentina's first sustainability consultancies. Funded by SGT coaches and clients, Wainstein completed their first carbon offset project this past summer, installing two solar kitchens and a energy efficient stoves for rural high-desert villages.

"When he offered the idea of funding a self-contained local offset project, not just contribute cash to some huge wind farm, it was really attractive," says Dunfee. "Plus these solar kitchens and the heat-efficient stoves help these communities on a social level, even more than the reduction in CO2 emissions."

Courtesy of SASS

This is how a solar kitchen works.

Replacing conventional cooking stoves fueled by shrub wood, and providing high-efficiency heating stoves that reduce the amount of firewood needed, the project will offset "150 tons of CO2 over the next 20 years." That's equivalent to 30 round trip flights from Boston to Argentina, according to Dunfee. As he mentions, the project offers a great side-benefit: freeing up the villagers from the time-consuming labor of gathering fuel wood.

"You have young kids who are in school, and villagers who are trying to scrap out a living in a very rugged landscape, and all of a sudden they now have a few more hours in their day to do something productive instead of looking for firewood," says Dunfee.

No doubt getting to South America to score some August backcountry lines is a good investment. But, as Weinstein notes, an even more important one is making sure that climate change doesn't win -- and a great place to start is taking on the impact of travel when skiers and riders head out to play.

"We spoil ourselves and get to travel the world and use up all these resources that it has to offer without giving anything back," says Randall Stacy, a Rome am rider and SGT guide intern who offset his flight to Argentina through the project. "I realized that donating solar ovens to these people would be a small change in our lives and an enormous change for them. Then again, that gets me thinking: if a small change for me did so much for them, what would happen if we all made big changes in our lives to help the world?"

Story by Jesse Huffman, ESPN

Arbor video clip - Apparel Made In The USA

2011-11-18T09:24:00.000-08:00

Arbor is proud to make all its T-shirts in the USA, with the ultimate goal to offer an entire line of apparel manufactured in America. The brand produces its entire T-shirt line—including the viscose from bamboo/organic cotton collection—as well as its hat collection and several knit styles all in Los Angeles. Arbor is well on its way to being a completely domestic producer of eco-friendly apparel. Watch this short video clip explaining what goes into the production of Arbor products.

‎"Moving Forward" trailer with Danny Toumarkine of Shreddy Times

2011-11-18T08:20:00.000-08:00

Check out the ‎"Moving Forward" trailer with Danny Toumarkine Co-Founder of Shreddy Times. This video is a trailer to the full length video which will be released on January 10th, 2012. It documents the time before and after the injury and will come out a week after Danny's return to the snow.

On January 3rd, 2011 Danny Toumarkine took a horrible fall while snowboarding in Montana. Danny was care flighted to a local hospital where he spent the next 33 days. During his time at the hospital Danny underwent 4 brain surgeries as a result of impact trauma to the left side of his head. Danny is very lucky to be alive.

Wear your helmets!

ZIMRIDE ANNOUNCES NEW PUBLIC ROUTE TO LAKE TAHOE

2011-11-16T15:59:00.000-08:00

Innovative Social Transportation Company Pays for 500 Road Trips to Tahoe with Free Gas

San Francisco, CA – November 16, 2011— Zimride, the largest online ride-sharing service in North America, today announced that a new route between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe will open to the public beginning Thanksgiving day, bringing Bay Area residents convenient, inexpensive access to one of the country’s top winter destinations. To celebrate the route’s launch, Zimride is giving away $20,000 worth of free gas to riders on the route.

Zimride will give a free tank of gas ($40 value) to the first 500 drivers who successfully book a ride along the Tahoe route, through the end of the year. On average, it will pay for a roundtrip drive between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe!

Zimride allows drivers to sell the empty seats in their car to passengers who need a ride along popular routes, like San Francisco to Tahoe. As part of their mission, the company not only facilitates monetary transactions, but connects individuals, many of whom list the personal connections they’ve made as a key benefit of the service.

“We’ve been looking forward to opening the Lake Tahoe route all Fall, because we know it will be a popular destination for our Bay Area users—from college students to weekend travelers, skiers to snowboarders,” says Logan Green, co-founder and CEO of Zimride. “Tahoe has over 3 million visitors every year, and over 20% of the people headed to the South Shore come from the Bay Area[1]. Even more important, nearly 80% of North Shore visitors arrive by car[2]. So that’s a lot of potential for Zimriders to save money and gas, while making friends. And even better, we’re paying for their drive! ”

To support the Lake Tahoe route, Zimride has also partnered with several top resorts in the area including Alpine Meadows, Kirkwood Mountain Resort, Sierra at Tahoe, Squaw Valley USA and Sugar Bowl, as well as several others. Added incentives for riders who Zimride to the resorts include promotions such as free and discounted lift tickets, VIP parking, and other giveaways.

Zimride is already a key resource on many university and corporate campuses across 30 states in the US. Recently, expanding on their growing success in the college and corporate market, Zimride launched their first public route, San Francisco to Los Angeles, in August.

For the drive between San Francisco and Lake Tahoe, Zimride is suggesting a $25 price per seat, each way. Drivers selling their empty seats, however, can name their own price.

Since launch, Zimride, which aims to transform transportation infrastructure by integrating social networks and ride sharing, has facilitated more than 26,000 carpools, helped users travel over 100 million miles and created over $50 million worth of savings in vehicle operating expenses.

Key to Zimride’s success is the combination of social and accessibility; Zimride users connect via Facebook, which adds a layer of trust to the system. Before a rider accepts a seat in a car or a driver accepts a passenger, he or she can view the person’s profile information to ensure he or she is comfortable with the match.

To sign up for a Lake Tahoe Zimride and have the chance to earn a free tank of gas, visit: www.zimride.com

About Zimride:

Zimride, the largest online social rideshare community in North America, is building a marketplace for drivers to sell empty seats in their car by matching them with passengers traveling along the same route. In addition to public routes like San Francisco to Los Angeles, Zimride has implemented networks for over 120 of the nation’s leading universities and companies including Stanford, UCLA, University of Michigan, Facebook and Jet Blue.

Zimride makes sharing rides for drivers and passengers fun, easy and social. It’s a new spin on ridesharing, using social networks to enable real connections. In seconds you can set up a profile, see and book a ride in your area, or post a ride of your own. With Zimride profiles, you can view photos, music and radio preferences to ensure an enjoyable ride.

Zimride proves that “life is better when you share the ride”: www.zimride.com

[1] http://ltva.org/documents/LTVA_Intercept_Survey_Summer2010.pdf

[2] http://www.deanrunyan.com/doc_library/FinalReportCA.pdf

THE LAKE TAHOE BACKCOUNTRY VERTICAL CHALLENGE STARTS TODAY, TUESDAY NOV.15TH!!!

2011-11-15T12:08:00.000-08:00

Article by BRENNAN LAGASSE unofficialnetworks.com

This Tuesday Nov. 15th the first ever community-wide fundraising initiative to benefit our very own Sierra Avalanche Center (SAC) will get underway. In a quest to attain operational dollars for Lake Tahoe’s local avalanche forecasting agency, Alpenglow Sports has challenged the entire Tahoe backcountry community to a cumulative goal of 15 million vertical feet of human-powered uphill travel.

As a Tahoe backcountry enthusiast, this is your opportunity to give back to the SAC at zero cost! As such, every single foot of uphill travel matters, and no number is too small! While 15 million vertical feet is a lofty cumulative goal, the ultimate payoff is a $3000 donation to the Sierra Avalanche Center, given by Alpenglow Sports. To sweeten the deal, Alpenglow Sports will also pay participants for their progress! The event is designed to motivate, inspire, and bond the Tahoe backcountry community around a vital, underfunded, resource for all methods of backcountry travel and recreation.

The event will run from November 15, 2011 through April 30, 2012 and data will be recorded at www.tahoevertical.com. For competitive types, podium prizes will be awarded for the top three men and women, as well as for best camera edit pertaining to the event. Any skier or rider that registers data is also eligible for a FREE bi-monthly raffle! Major sponsors include: Black Diamond, Scarpa, G3, Marmot, Suunto, Clif Bar, Smith Optics, Rotefella, and Honey Stinger.

About Alpenglow Sports:

Established in 1979, Alpenglow Sports is Tahoe City’s original mountain shop. Specializing in backcountry and Nordic skiing, snowshoeing, trail running, backpacking, hiking, camping, and the mountain lifestyle apparel, Alpenglow is always psyched to offer premier user-based customer service.

If you would like more information about this event, or to schedule an interview, please call Alpenglow Sports at 530.583.6917 or email brendan@alpenglowsports.com

Hot Planet/Cool Athletes visit VT high school to raise climate change awareness

2011-11-11T11:55:00.000-08:00

Today, the “Hot Planet/Cool Athletes” program visited to over 400 students at S. Burlington HS in Vermont with Professional freeskier, Sage Cattabriga-Alosa. After talking about personal experiences, seeing the effects of climate change and asking the students to be part of the solution, a ninth grader stepped up and shared with the audience – comprised mostly of upperclassman – several things she does to cut her carbon emissions: carpooling to school every day, composting, reusing butter containers to bake cupcakes, unplugging electronics, recycling, buying from responsible brands… and she spoke about how easy and important it is to implement these practices.

Students can apply for small starter grants from POW to get their best ideas off the ground and making a difference.

Tomorrow, we visit Turners Falls, MA high school with Dylan Hood and next week in Nashua, NH with Nick Martini.

Hot Planet/Cool Athletes is a Program started by Protect Our Winters in partnership with Alliance For Climate Education (ACE) this program is targeted to schools in mountain communities, leveraging the power of a pro athlete to inspire and motivate young kids. This impactful multi-media event provides a platform for any athlete to educate students about climate change solutions, through personal experiences, while inspiring them to be the next generation of climate leaders.

Premier of SOLITAIRE by SweetGrass Productions Friday 11.11.11 at the Victoria Theatre in SF

2011-11-10T13:28:00.000-08:00

If you're around San Francisco Friday 11.11.11 you should check out the premier of SOLITAIRE a movie about South American backcountry riding. Zero helicopters were used in the making of this movie! Check out the trailer HERE and buy tickets HERE!

Ride's Arcade Snowboard utilizes hemp top sheet

2011-11-02T17:25:00.000-07:00

Ride eliminated the traditional plastic top sheet completely and incoporated a hemp top sheet which is lighter and stronger, and is made from an easily renewable resource that requires little processing and no petroleum based plastic on their new Arcade snowboard. Hemp is fast growing, requires little irrigation or pesticides, and helps clean up toxins from the ground. Props to Ride for utilizing a environmentally conscious technology in one of their board's construction.

ridesnowboards.com

European mountain related carpooling with Mountain Rideshare

2011-10-31T17:24:00.000-07:00

Car pooling, also known as ride-sharing or lift-sharing, reduces traffic, can save you money on gas, wear and tear on your vehicle, oil resources and reduce the environmental impacts associated with driving. For those of you planning your European mountain related drive for some winter fun, be to ski, snowboard, mountaineer or hike, Mountain Rideshare is a European carpooling website that can help you to connect and fill spare seats your vehicle with like minded people who could even turn out to be long term friends.

This is turn would save you some money, give you some company and another very positive factor is that car sharing is one little contribution you could make to do your bit for the mountain environment that you love.

With the thousands of mountain journeys made everyday, cars, vans and minibuses travel with extra space that should be filled if at all possible. This in turn would reduce the number of vehicles making the same journey as well as the CO2 output.

Typical journey examples include:

Airport transfers (travel between ski resorts and airports)

People travelling from towns and cities to ski resorts

Journeys to and from mountain events and competitions

In the UK, trips to snow domes and dry ski slopes are more popular than ever before. With people practicing their mountain sport on a weekly basis. Mountain Rideshare can be used to partner up with others getting to these more local slopes too.

Reasons to Share the Ride…

If you’ve been in Europe the last two years, you have seen that climate change is for real and is changing the mountains!

Fuel prices are at an all time high

Social networking has made the concept like car sharing a viable and trustable option.

www.mountainrideshare.com

Mountain Rider's Alliance and Skilogik create a environmentally conscious ski

2011-10-28T15:39:00.000-07:00

One of our partners, Mountain Rider's Alliance, recently partnered with Skilogik to created a environmentally conscious ski where a portion of the proceeds will go to the MRA and MRA’s new nonprofit partner, the Native American Olympic Team Foundation. Check out the article below.

Story by Ryan Dunfee, Teton Gravity Research

The Mountain Rider’s Alliance has partnered with Skilogik to produce a custom, limited-edition ski graphic for the 2011-12 winter season. A portion of the proceeds will go to the MRA and MRA’s new nonprofit partner, the Native American Olympic Team Foundation. The graphic will be available on just 500 pairs of skis.

MRA’s co-founder Jamie Schectman found out about the Native American Olympic Team Foundation, a nonprofit started by Olympian and Ski Hall of Famer Suzy “Chapstick” Chaffee, in a recent Powdermag.com article and was inspired to reach out and create the joint fundraiser.

“As a triple bottom line business, MRA practices ‘passed-on prosperity,’” Schectman said.

The NAOTF inspires ski areas to invite nearby tribal youth to ski and snowboard and thrive again in their beloved ancestral mountains. The nonprofit supports Olympic dreams by providing access to coaching, equipment and lift tickets.

Thanks mainly to Chaffee’s celebrity and fundraising efforts, ski areas have given health and life-lifting opportunities to thousands of underserved tribal youth. The ultimate goal of the NAOTF’s efforts is to produce Native American Olympic athletes. Now in its sixteenth year, there are several promising young downhill and Nordic athletes in training.

Chaffee’s involvement with Native Americans began in 1995 in Telluride after she spent a day teaching a Lakota-Sioux named Rollingbears to ski with a free lift ticket from Telluride Ski Company. Touched by the gesture, Rollingbears led a ceremony that purportedly saved the resort from a snowless Christmas holiday. Telluride’s marketing director, Mike Hess, was so grateful he gave Rollingbears a season pass and helped Chaffee start a program to give nearby Ute tribal youth the opportunity to ski and snowboard for their first time. After Suzy witnessed what she says were three more weather-related miracles in mountain communities, she was convinced of the real power and connection Native Americans have with Mother Earth and as she says, “the importance of giving Her appreciation.”

Chaffee found herself spreading these programs to resorts across the U.S. and Canada, creating a bridge between ski communities and thousands of tribal youth who previously had little to no access to these expensive and far-away resorts, many of which are on their ancestral lands.

Chaffee has funded the foundation primarily with her own resources, along with donations by mountain communities grateful for the tribal snowblessings. Recent supporters have included Colorado’s Ute Mountain Casino and New Jersey's Mountain Creek Resort, whose owner Gene Mulvihill became a believer in the good karma when a massive blizzard last season left his resort packed with visitors, and again after he only lost a few trees in the disastrous hurricane that tore up much of the Northeast earlier this fall.

Chaffee remains as passionate about her causes as she is about skiing, which she sees as a “beautiful dance down a mountain.”

Chaffee used her celebrity and courage from the 1968 Olympics to raise millions of dollars from Pepsi and Colgate to start women’s freestyle skiing. She also led the Title IX March in Washington, D.C., to give women equal opportunities in school sports and education. Outside of her current efforts with Native Americans, she is also working to produce a 100 percent organic lip balm and a variety of efforts to fight diabetes in Native American as well as Mexican communities.

Skilogik was chosen to be the fundraiser’s ski manufacturing partner as both Chaffee and Schectman believe that the upstart Colorado-based company is the leader in sustainable ski manufacturing. Skilogik uses 95 percent sustainably harvested woods in their skis and works with the Nature Conservancy to plant one tree in the Brazilian rainforest for every pair of skis sold. All MRA limited-edition skis will include a Skilogik ski of your choice with the custom MRA handcrafted wood topsheet depicting the Manitoba Mountain landscape, an MRA t-shirt, stickers, and ski strap, a small block of organic GreenWax, a $100 coupon toward a future MRA Mountain Playground Membership, a tree planted in the Brazilian rainforest, and $35 of the profits will go to the support the Native American Olympic Team Foundation, which could raise over $17,000 in critical funds. To buy the boards and support two great organizations, visit the MRA website.

David Ingimie, President of the SnowSports Industries of America, graciously donated gear to 45 tribes “to help create a generation of healthy Native Americans Olympians.” To make 2012 as smooth as possible, he joins NAOTF in urging all ski areas to invite 15-20 tribal youth in December for a day of skiing and snowboarding and share a Gratitude Snowdance. And if the youth fall in love with the sport, he urges ski areas to follow the "Telluride-Ute Future Olympians Ski & Snowboard Program" where Ute students can ski or board for $15 per day, and their chaperones $30. The ski school donates a few lessons and ski shops share rentals as their contributions to the snowblessings. This thoughtfulness has inspired Elders to lead Gratitude Snowdances that have helped save ski areas from droughts since 1963, including leading up to the Utah Olympics. For more, visit snow-riders.org.

Clif Bar Jeremy Jones Video

2011-10-18T17:30:00.000-07:00

Check out this video from Clif Bar with Jeremy Jones on why he started POW and why it's important to take time and show up at our nation's capital.

Environmentally Conscious Niche Snowboards Licenses Magne-Traction

2011-10-14T20:27:00.000-07:00

Niche Snowboards, based in Salt Lake City, is excited to announce the recent acquisition of the Magne-Traction license from Mervin Manufacturing. The license will allow Niche to use Magne-Traction on all snowboards going forward with the 2012-2013 season. Niche is 100% committed to doing everything they can to be as eco-friendly as possible. Read the official release from Niche:

Salt Lake City, UT-Niche Snowboards is very excited to announce an agreement with Mervin Manufacturing to license Magne-Traction to be used on snowboards for the 2012/2013 season, and beyond. Niche founder, Dustin Morrell had this to say: “Niche’s eco standpoint aligns well with Mervin Mfg. We could not be happier with this partnership. I am excited to release Magne-Traction technology with the combination of Niche’s Hemphop, Snappy Sap, Digi-Print and Magma Fiber. The Niche Aether is one kick-ass board that now comes with Magne-Traction. It does not get any better!”

Niche will release a total of 60 limited edition 2012 Aether 156 models to celebrate with a special Michael Sieben graphic to be shipped in November. “I’ve been a cheerleader for the “wiggly edge” for many years and I’m happy to see it come to Niche. We will do the design justice for sure,” said Greg Hughes, VP of Sales/Marketing.

Contact your Niche Sales Rep or Niche Snowboards at info@nichesnowboards.com.

Recycle Utah and Snowsports Industry team up to create a ski/snowboard recycle program

2011-10-13T11:19:00.000-07:00

Story by Transworld Business

Recycle Utah has teamed up with Snowsports Industry in Colorado to create a ski/snowboard recycle program to address the overwhelming issue of what to do with used, and old hard-goods. According to Park Record, since 2008, Snowsports Industry has collected over 300 tons of equipment ranging from snowboards, to skis, to helmets, boots, and more.

The recycling center in Colorado has collected over 8,000 pounds since the pilot program last spring, and will run through the fall, ending November 27^th. “We are the only center in the state that is recycling old snow equipment. Anything that is not good enough for the ski swap, we will take,” said Recycle Utah executive director, Insa Riepen. “We created these sports we enjoy, but what happens in the end? This is the best solution we have found so far.”

The alternative to recycling old snow equipment is dumping into landfills. Local shops are partaking in the efforts. Cole Sport is offering an incentive program to customers to choose to recycle, “If someone recycles an old pair of skis, they will get a coupon, good for a year, which gives them $50 off a new pair of skis at Cole Sport. A recycled snowboard will get you $30 off a new snowboard” said Riepen. “We are offering coupons for everything, poles, goggles, boots, even gloves.”

For more on the original interview with Ripen, visit ParkRecord.com.

To learn more on the program, visit www.recycleutah.org.

atreebutes - A Clothing Alteration Project By Nicolas Müller & Frederik Kalbermatten

2011-10-12T13:43:00.000-07:00

atreebutes is a cool new "clothing alteration project" by Nicolas Müller & Frederik Kalbermatten. They have an interesting view on the sustainability that i like. See for yourself...

There is this word.

Sustainability.

It is all over the place. It has become so popular that some people use it without considering what great responsibility comes with it.
Even the petrol industry and major airlines like the sound of this word and dig out the 2 green percent in their companies to create a global marketing campaign out of them.

Although our main goal at atreebutes is to make clothes that are better and healthier for people and have little to no impact on the environment, we have to take it easy with the use of the s word.

Because we know that everything we do messes something up. Even if we try to be a good or „less bad“ brand, we still create problems that wouldn’t be there without us. If we wanted to live a sustainable life, we shouldn’t be doing a clothing brand. It’s as easy as that.

You can buy an organic apple at your local farmer’s shop and with some luck it is 99% organic because there is mainly water and sun involved in growing that apple. But there are so many steps involved in making a simple T-shirt that once it is finished, it has done some harm. We are aware of that.

But on the other hand you have to start at some point. Without being intimidated by what problems might lie ahead of you. That’s why we’re cool with the fact that the s word is so popular right now. It creates awareness for what’s going on in this world. And if it motivates people to make only a small step into the right direction, it means they make one step less into the wrong.

That is our mission. No steps into the wrong direction.

What you see here is our personal first step.

If you like parts of it and it maybe even gets you to change some of your old ways, we are on the right track.

And if you like it even quite a bit and you would like to become a part of it, drop us a line.

You’re always welcome@atreebutes.com.

Boarding for Breast Cancer turns 15

2011-10-06T13:10:00.000-07:00

Story by Colin Bane ESPN

This week, Boarding for Breast Cancer kicked off its 17-stop Check One, Two campus tour in California, marking both the beginning of Breast Cancer Awareness Month and the 15th anniversary of the organization co-founded by pro snowboarders Tina Basich and Shannon Dunn and action sports industry insiders Kathy Gasperini and Lisa Hudson.

"It's crazy to think that it's been 15 years, and to think of how much it's grown," says Hudson. "Fifteen years ago, after our good friend Monica Steward was diagnosed with breast cancer at the age of 26, we decided we wanted to start an event to educate young women and the action sports industry about breast cancer, how it can affect young women, and how impotant it is to not only be able to detect it early on through self breast exams, but also to be your own advocate to demand that your doctors take note and take the necessary steps and not just say, 'Oh, you're too young for breast cancer.' Unfortunately Monica passed away before that first event in Tahoe, and that kind of gave us all an extra push to make it happen and to see how much more we could do with this to save as many people's lives as possible."

In the beginning, the organization put on annual snowboarding and music events around Lake Tahoe, donating the proceeds to established organizations like the Breast Cancer Fund and Susan G. Komen for the Cure. But the co-founders saw an even bigger opportunity to raise awareness about breast cancer and partnered with some of the biggest brands in action sports to create collaborative "cause-marketing" products and bring in top athletes to help spread the message.

B4BC has established an annual presence at the X Games, the Burton U.S. Open of Snowboarding, the U.S. Open of Surfing, and other action sports events, and outreach director Blair Young estimates she now has one-on-one communication with at least 100,000 young women annually at these events, distributing educational literature and cards teaching young women how to do breast self exams. That number is about to get exponentially bigger, thanks to a significantly expanded campus tour.

"For our second annual campus tour we've increased from five stops to 17 stops," Young says. "We're hitting most of the major universities in California and partnering with the women's health studies, recreation & sports departments, and student wellness centers at each campus. We're looking to expand the tour even more in 2012, possibly even taking it across the country." The tour began Tuesday at California State University at Sacramento and concludes November 3, with stops at UC-San Diego and San Diego State University.

And while most of the media attention on the work of B4BC and other breast cancer awareness organizations tends to center around Breast Cancer Awareness Month in October, Young says it's important to emphasize that the work of prevention and early detection education is a year-round endeavor. "There's also a movement to stop calling it Breast Cancer Awareness Month and shift it to Breast Cancer Prevention Month, which is what we're now calling it," Young says.

I've experienced firsthand people coming to the B4BC booth and saying, 'Boarding for Breast Cancer saved my life. You taught me how to do a breast self exam last year,' and they're standing there baldheaded, they're going through chemotherapy, and they're telling us that early detection saved their lives and that they first learned how to do a breast self exam from visiting a B4BC booth."

Seventy percent of B4BC's annual operating budget now comes from its cause marketing partners, according to Hudson. Currently available products featured in the B4BC shop drop at CCS.com and at B4BC.org include Boarding for Breast Cancer t-shirts by Element, Billabong, Skullcandy, Burton, Neff, WeSC, Vans, Salomon, Nike 6.0, Von Zipper, Circa, DVS, Paul Frank, and Bonfire (Monica Steward was a snowboard clothing designer at Bonfire), among others. The 2011/2012 B4BC lookbook also includes high-end "pink products" like Reel Pink snowboard boot dials by Boa, Von Zipper goggles, and the Iconic Jacket by Volcom, which was designed in collaboration with pro snowboarder and B4BC spokeswoman Elena Hight.

"Boarding for Breast Cancer started with an event in Tahoe near where I grew up in South Lake, so I've been around it since I was a total grom," says Hight. "It's been an honor to get more involved by spending time in the B4BC booths at the events I'm competing in, and to be able to support through proceeds from the jacket. They're also out there talking about the importance of a healthy lifestyle, eating nutritious food, being outside, enjoying the the things you love, like snowboarding or whatever it is you're into. The healthier you are, the stronger you'll be when it comes to fighting breast cancer or any other disease. I think it's an important message to be spread: Breast cancer is a survivable disease. You can actively reduce your risk of getting it in the first place, and it can be detected early. Once detected, it can be fought."

Other athletes active in B4BC's 2011/2012 campaigns include surfers Coco Ho, Liz Clark, Malia Manuel and Sage Erickson, snowboarder Jamie Anderson, and skateboarder Allysha Bergado.

Nike’s Sustainable Business and Innovation lab starts venture capital group

2011-09-29T09:36:00.000-07:00

Bloomberg is reporting that Nike’s Sustainable Business and Innovation lab has started a venture capital group that will fund new energy operations and companies with more sustainable business practices. The group will also invest in businesses that are supporting a healthy, active lifestyle.

From SportsOneSource:

Nike Sustainable Business and Innovation is establishing a venture capital operation to identify and fund alternative energies and more sustainable business practices, Bloomberg reported.

Nike Sustainable Business & Innovation (SB&I) Lab will invest in startups developing more sustainable business practices or that promote healthy lifestyles.

Nike created SB&I in 2009 as part of an overhaul of its corporate social responsibility efforts. Its mission is to fast- track integration of corporate responsibility into its business and develop scalable solutions to enable Nike’s evolution to a closed-loop business model.

The SB&I has not yet made any investments.

SB&I focuses on our key business priorities - sustainable products, sustainable manufacturing and sustainable marketplaces - and on elements of our strategy. It works through a matrix structure, with defined priorities for each team. The SB&I function reports to Nike’s vice president of Sustainable Business & Innovation, who reports directly to the NIKE, Inc. CEO and to the Corporate Responsibility Committee of the Board of Directors.

Jake Burton Diagnosed With Cancer

2011-09-26T12:53:00.000-07:00

58 year old Jake Burton Carpentar just sent a letter to all the employees of his company, Burton Snowboards, explaining that he has been diagnosed with cancer and that he has been undergoing chemotherapy.

To: Burton Global

From: Jake

Good News and Bad News

The bad news is that I have cancer. The good news is that it is as curable as it gets. What I have is called Seminoma, also known as Testicular Cancer (think Lance Armstrong). I have three months of chemo ahead with the possibility of surgery along the way.

Last week was a rough one for me and Donna in that for several days my prognosis looked far, far worse. What struck me and everyone around me as unusual during this time was the fact that I didn’t get that upset about my situation. I have come to the conclusion that this for sure is simply a reflection of the people I’m surrounded and supported by.

Starting with a perfect wife, 3 loving sons, and a stable of amazing friends, I am way ahead of your average bear in the support department. But the support that I feel from this company and all of you is what puts me on another level; starting with the best Senior Management Team I’ve ever seen here, on through to every Burton employee all over the world. I hope that, should any of you find yourself in a similar predicament, Burton can provide you with the same sense of peace and support.

I have no idea what my work schedule is going to be, but I assume it will have its ups and downs. I will keep you posted on Yammer and e-mail with my progress.

In the meantime, the best thing you can do for me is to keep kicking ass the way you have been.

See you all at the fall bash.

Jake.

I hope Jake has a speedy recovery!

A New Look At Bamboo - INBAR movie

2011-09-24T16:14:00.000-07:00

A short film commissioned by INBAR for the World Expo in Shanghai, profiling the many innovative uses for bamboo and rattan including snowboards, surfboards, bicycles and building materials.

Hitch Whistler - Free Rideshare Site

2011-09-19T09:39:00.000-07:00

Check out Hitch Whistler...a totally free rideshare site connecting those heading up to Whistler with those in need of a ride. The intention is to help reduce the carbon footprint of those heading up the mountain by promoting ridesharing. On an individual level people can also share the costs of the drive and remove the need to hitch on the side of the road. Hitch Whistler launched at the beginning of last season and has nearly 1300 users on the site with over a 1000 trips being completed this season. While other carpool sites exist Hitch Whistler's goal is to create a more local community based rideshare around a shared passion with snow lovers using the site in the winter and bikers and climbers using it in the summer. Hitch Whistler recently launched HitchRockies which covers resorts in Alberta such as Banff, Lake Louise and Castle! www.hitchwhistler.com

Protect Our Winters and Athletes Talk Climate Change On Capitol Hill Tonight

2011-09-14T14:25:00.000-07:00

Tonight in Washington DC Jeremy Jones, Gretchen Bleiler, Chris Davenport and Auden Schendler will discuss climate change, winter sports, and why athletes are an importnat part of the solution. This event is at 6:30pm at the Capital Visitors Center. The event is open to the public!

Mizu Water Bottles

2011-09-08T15:44:00.000-07:00

If you're looking for a sleek functional water bottle check out Mizu. I've been using their m8 bottle in black with the non slip soft touch coating and its the best bottle I've ever used. Mizu was founded by snowboarder Jussi Oksanen and filmer Brad Kremer. Check out the bottle features and specs below:

18/8 Food-grade stainless steel
100% Toxin, BPA, phthalate and PVC free
Mizu's mouth is the perfect size for drinking. Not spilling
Angled neck for smoother flow
100% Reusable and recyclable
Will not retain flavors
Lifetime warranty

mizulife.com

Protect Our Winters Names New Board Members

2011-09-06T13:59:00.000-07:00

Protect Our Winters (POW) announced that four new members have been added to the four year-old nonprofit’s Board of Directors. POW was founded in 2007 by pro snowboarder Jeremy Jones, focused on uniting and mobilizing the winter sports community against climate change.

“We are truly honored that this group has agreed to be part of POW’s leadership. Four years ago, POW was an idea. Now we have some of the best and the brightest in sports, science, sustainability and business guiding this organization,” said Jeremy Jones, POW’s Founder.

With climate change an ever-increasing threat to the longevity of winter sports, jobs and the economies of mountain regions, POW is taking an aggressive approach by strengthening its organizational leadership in key areas, to help it address one of the most pressing environmental issues of our time.

POW Board Of Directors, New Additions:

•Gretchen Bleiler – Olympic Silver Medalist, Four-time X Games Champion and co-founder of Nice Reusables/ALEX Bottle

•Penn Newhard - Owner, Backbone Media, Carbondale CO

•Naomi Oreskes – Professor of History and Science Studies at the University of California, San Diego

•Kristine Stratton – SVP of Operations, Earthjustice

Protect Our Winters has also elected Matt McClain as its Chairman of the Board, effective immediately. Matt is currently the Director Marketing & Communications, Surfrider Foundation, based in San Clemente, CA and has been a POW Board Member for two years.

POW Board Of Directors, Current Members:

•Matt McClain (Chairman) – Director Marketing & Communications, Surfrider Foundation

•Auden Schendler – Vice President, Sustainability, Aspen Ski Company

•Strick Walker – Sr. Director, International Brand Communications, Converse

•Christina Thomure – Director of Sustainability, Grand Targhee Resort

Great News for my home mountain - Squaw Valley announces partnership with Snow Park Technologies

2011-09-05T11:33:00.001-07:00

[Squaw Valley USA] September 2, 2011 – Squaw Valley USA announces a new partnership with Snow Park Technologies (SPT), which intends to place the resort’s terrain parks and half-pipe among the top in North America over the next few years. With a resume including the ESPN Winter X-Games, Dew Tour and signature Red Bull events such as the world’s first cubed 22 foot pipe built at Squaw Valley last spring, SPT will be working with Squaw Valley to improve all facets of the resort’s terrain park program through design collaboration, recruitment and development. SPT will also be working with the resort to develop new park and pipe-related events in the years to come.

“We couldn’t be more thrilled to be partnering with SPT,” said Andy Wirth, Squaw Valley’s president and chief executive officer. “Our goal is to have the quality of our parks and pipe ultimately match the unbeatable caliber of our mountain—and there is truly no one better in the industry to help us achieve this goal. SPT is the best of the best.”

Squaw Valley’s partnership with SPT is part of the Lake Tahoe resort’s $50 million Renaissance to improve all aspects of the mountain and guest experience. In addition to several new dining experiences and new facilities for winter 2011-12, Squaw Valley is placing a renewed focus on high quality terrain parks and seamless mountain operations.

“Squaw Valley’s new management team has been pushing to create positive change with visible impact, and we are excited that the terrain park/pipe program is among their top initiatives,” said Chris “Gunny” Gunnarson, president and owner of SPT. It’s an awesome time for SPT to be involved with Squaw Valley and the resort’s Renaissance.”

Squaw Valley USA and SPT are currently in the process of evaluating and designing the parks and half-pipe for the upcoming winter season. Details regarding park and pipe specifics will become available as winter approaches.

About Squaw Valley USA

Squaw Valley USA was founded in 1949 and hosted the 1960 Olympic Winter Games, the first televised Olympics. Squaw Valley is one of the largest and most diverse mountain resorts in North America, with incomparable outdoor recreational amenities that attract both local residents and visitors from around the globe. For more information, please visit www.squaw.com.

About Snow Park Technologies

Established in 1999, Snow Park Technologies (SPT) is a company dedicated to the design, construction and progression of all areas related to terrain park development. SPT is the world’s leading consulting team for special projects on snow and is comprised of an all-star crew whose passion and commitment give SPT its greatest strength. SPT’s wide range of expertise includes designing and building some of the most renowned resort terrain parks and halfpipes, high profile ski and snowboard competition courses and countless on-snow productions. SPT’s client list consists of top industry leaders including Burton, ESPN Winter X Games, Winter Dew Tour, Nike and DC Shoes, as well as some of the top resorts in the country. For more information, please visit www.snowparktech.com.

The California Helmet Law Moves Onward…

2011-08-18T13:30:00.000-07:00

Pat Milberry

By Transworld Businesss

The infamous bill that has been circulating the California Legislature for over a year now has finally reached the desk of California Governor, Jerry Brown. Last Monday, California State Legislature passed SB 105-the bill that allows authorities to fine parents of helmet-less shredders $25 if they’re caught riding without a helmet. The bill also enforces resorts to do their part, and post descriptions of the law on the slopes, websites, and trail maps.

Back in June 2011, the California State Congress passed two separate bills to mandate helmets on minors while riding the slopes. San Francisco Senator Leland Yee (D) introduced the bill, and has sponsored the movement, stating, “When you have thousands of accidents where there are brain injuries of some sort, nearly half of those injuries could have been prevented if the youngsters wore a helmet.” And with California claiming home to more snowboarders than any other state, (19.4% or 1.5 million to be exact, according to SIA), there is no doubt this bill could start a ripple effect across the country, if enacted.

Helmet retailers argue, although the law is a good start, there also needs to be strict guidelines aimed at helmet manufactures on what represents a “safe helmet.”

“I’d say this is a lot of the cart before the horse,” said Kirsten Andrae, general manager of Briko North America. “I’d like to see laws about what constitutes a good helmet first. There is still a hell of lot of leeway between what is sold as a helmet in this country and what is good protection for your child’s head.”

Highly publicized accidents-such as that of pro snowboarder Kevin Pearce in December 2009-have rocked the industry, and have certainly made more aware of the importance in wearing helmets while riding. Although Pearce suffered extensive brain damage when he crashed on a halfpipe in Park City, UT while training for the Olympics, he contributes his helmet to saving his life. SIA reported that high-profile injuries have attributed to a 1.2 million-unit spike in helmet sales over the past year.

If Governor Brown decides to enact the bill, all skiers and snowboarders under the age of 18 will need to wear a helmet while riding California’s slopes. Former Governor, Arnold Schwarzenegger vetoed a similar bill last year due to its link to ski resort safety legislation, and its imposition on additional resort regulations.

The country’s first ski helmet law was enacted in New Jersey earlier this year, and has seen significant support.

Does your company use solar power?

2011-08-17T10:43:00.001-07:00

Does your company use solar power? This Petition is raising awareness for solar power in the workplace. Check it out!

Be bold and make a positive impact! Tell your boss you want solar at work.

You are making a positive environmental impact at home but its not enough! NOW is the time to do it at work. The changes your business makes has a larger scale and scope than the ones you make at home. So what are you waiting for?! Take a stand for the environment while helping your company cut its usage of dirty energy! Urge your boss to make an investment in it's employees and the planet, through solar.

According to the US Bureau of Labor Statistics, over 50% of the hours you spend awake are at work. Unfortunately, companies are prioritizing other expenditures over ones that impact their employees. While some companies have implemented significant sustainability measures, none have the impact that solar does. Recycled paper, LED lighting, power cords, light sensors and low flush toilets are great, but they don’t affect your immediate environment with the same impact or scale that solar energy does. Greenzu, a solar company that works with small businesses & non-profits, estimates that "US businesses can spare the air 5.164 billion tons of CO2 through solar", creating a global impact.

Your vote counts! Tell your boss that you want your organization to lead the way in the solar movement. Solar reduces your company's carbon footprint, boosts employee morale and saves money. Go solar now!

Learn more? Join our facebook page and spread the word to your friends. Solar starts with you!

Traveling to shred this summer? Offset your trip!

2011-08-08T11:25:00.000-07:00

If you're traveling to shred this summer consider offsetting your trip(s) with renewable energy purchases, like those from Carbonfund.org or Terrapass.com. Although there's still some controversy over carbon offsets--the funds still go to an invaluable service: supporting and developing alternative energy sources. The very alternative energy sources that we'll need to see more of, if we hope to continue riding into the 2100s!

Danny Toumarkine - 7 Month Update!

2011-08-03T17:45:00.000-07:00

Check out Danny's 7 month update HERE! Make sure you wear a helmet if you're riding this summer!

MUESLI FUSION AND POW PARTNER TO CREATE ALL-NATURAL CEREAL

2011-08-01T20:16:00.000-07:00

POW is very excited to be partnering with Muesli Fusion, a line of totally organic, raw and natural cereals. They’re also focused on making a positive impact on their environment and have created a custom POW cereal available at retail and online, with proceeds coming to POW. PRESS RELEASE:

Rochester, NY (June 29, 2011)- Climate change is already having a negative effect on our environment, particularly in regards to snowpack. In an effort to raise awareness and fight climate change, Muesli Fusion is proud to announce a partnership with Protect Our Winters, the global snowsports non-profit focused on uniting the winter sports community against climate change.

To do their part, Muesli Fusion has added a new cereal, “POW” to its line of all-natural cereals. The cereal is a mix of raw whole grains, almonds, dates, raisins, and coconut, with all ingredients sourced within the US. It’s perfect fuel for any active lifestyle; a nutrition packed mix high in protein and no added sugars.

All proceeds from the sales of the POW cereal will go to POW, helping to fund their programs and mobilize consumers towards achieving one goal we all share – protecting our winters. Now available, POW cereal can be purchased at Muesli Fusion’s online store and some of its retail stores. Muesli Fusion’s commitment to the environment extends beyond the collaboration and includes recyclable packaging, energy-efficient manufacturing, and shipping all orders through UPS’s carbon-neutral shipping program.

“I want Muesli Fusion to help make the world a better place and outdoor sports, particularly snowboarding, is one of my biggest passions,” said Muesli Fusion’s President Ian Szalinski. “The opportunity to give back through Protect Our Winters is just a natural fit.” www.mueslifusion.com

RIP Aaron Robinson 1986 – 2011

2011-07-20T22:06:00.000-07:00

Words: Pat Bridges

The thoughts of Snowboarder Magazine go out to the friends and family of Aaron “A-Rob” Robinson. On Tuesday the 19th of July, 2011 Aaron Robinson passed away while snowboarding in Chile. The circumstances surrounding this tragedy are still vague but what is certain is that the riding community lost one it’s own on this day. Aaron was a vibrant part of the fabric of our sport. A-Rob’s love for the alpine in all forms was pure and infectious. His dynamic skills shined from inside the park to beyond the piste. Aaron lived for riding and adventure and the relationships they presented. From the time I spent with A-Rob since first meeting him a few seasons back I can find some solace in knowing that he was on another journey and strapped in when his time came, albeit much too soon.

South by Southwest Conferences and Festivals announce SXSW Eco

2011-07-20T17:13:00.000-07:00

South by Southwest is adding another conference to its roster of music, film, interactive, and education forums.

It will be called SXSW Eco. The focus will be on finding ways to make humanity more ecologically sustainable. Unlike other SXSW forums, this conference will run from October 4-6. Early tickets are $800.

For more info go to sxsweco.com!

Vapur's Anti-Bottle - foldable, reusable water bottle design

2011-07-19T15:34:00.000-07:00

Here's a cool product...The Vapur Anti-Bottle is a foldable, reusable water bottle design for convenient on the go use anywhere. Vapur is made from ultra-durable, BPA-free polymer made to withstand constant use and regular cleaning. It is infinitely portable, sustainable and durable and made in the USA. I'm thinking one could work well while snowboarding. Excited to try it out next season!

vapur.us

PACIFICO AND POW PROTECT THE PLACES WHERE ADVENTURE HAPPENS

2011-07-15T14:59:00.000-07:00

This summer, POW and Pacifico have partnered to help protect the places where adventure happens. Just pick up a specially marked 6/12 pack and enter the special code on www.pacificoadventure.comto donate $1 to POW. Help raise money for POW this summer!

Interesting op-ed on how carbon markets are taking off in Europe

2011-07-12T17:32:00.000-07:00

JULY 6TH, 2011 BY NICK NIGRO, Txchnologist

At a time when many are adopting the narrative that carbon markets are faltering, the European Union (EU) is aggressively pursuing the expansion of theirs to include aviation. One of only two mandatory greenhouse gas (GHG) cap-and-trade systems in the world, the EU Emissions Trading Scheme (ETS) plans to fold in a new sector beginning in January 2012. Our research shows reducing GHG emissions from aviation is critical if we are to mitigate the impacts of global climate change. Low-carbon fuel technology and other technologies for airplanes are advancing at a rapid clip, but we need a climate policy – either a price on carbon or something else – to get over the hump.

Although there are many opportunities to reduce aviation’s impact on global climate change available now,experts expect GHG emissions from aviation to grow by up to 300 percent by 2050 if left unchecked. Action in the areas of advanced biofuels, airplane navigation and landing systems, and engine and airframe efficiency could help considerably. However, because of market failures, many new technologies may not succeed without public policy.

The point of market-oriented regulations like the EU ETS is to help push that new technology into the market without deciding technological winners. That appears to be exactly what’s happening with aviation in Europe. Low-carbon fuel technology along with more advanced engine and aircraft designs are beginning to enter the market just as new regulations are about to take effect. For example, European airlines including KLM and Lufthansa are beginning to fuel some of their planes with advanced biofuel-petroleum blends.

The EU’s view is that equally pricing the carbon emitted from airplanes flying into and out of European airports is fair and reasonable. And to that end, countries like the United States and China could look at this as one more additional cost to doing business in Europe and support the plan. They don’t. Their concerns include the legality of the program, the fairness of European-specific action, and the economic impact on the aviation industry.

The EU deserves credit for being a first-mover on this issue.

Both countries claim the move is illegal and an act of “extraterritorial jurisdiction” or ETJ. ETJ is an arcane legal term that essentially means a country is trying to exercise authority beyond its borders. U.S. airlines filed a lawsuit in 2009 with the European Court of Justice challenging the legality of the EU plan. The airlines are also concerned that their tight profit margins will be squeezed further, which could lead to even more fees. The International Air Transport Association estimated the program would increase the annual cost to Europe’s airline industry by 1 billion Euros while their profit for 2011 is expected to be less than half that. It’s unclear how much of the additional cost could be passed on to consumers.

Though the U.S. government is not a party in the case, it also believes the program violates international treaties. The U.S. government has officially come out against including U.S. airlines in the EU plan saying the intentions are good, but the method is wrong. Since aviation is a global industry and climate change is a worldwide problem, the US argued it’s sensible to want an international agreement instead of a patchwork solution that may be unfair. The International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) has been working on such an agreement for many years.

Meanwhile, China is taking a retaliatory approach by putting the brakes on a major deal with Airbus, blaming the current “political environment.” Using a $4 billion deal as a bargaining chip is certainly an aggressive move by the Chinese. China also makes the claim that the EU program is illegal.

If the EU plan is legally upheld, the U.S. and China could meet its requirements if domestic measures are taken that result in equivalent GHG emission reductions. The purchase of fuel-efficient planes like Boeing’s 787 Dreamliner could reduce emissions and save airlines money in the long run. In addition, biofuels and other alternative fuels can act as a hedge against unstable oil prices, which have seen significant volatility in the last decade. In fact, seven U.S. airlines intend to start fueling some U.S.-based flights with biofuels. Finally, the U.S. military is leading the way in establishing a market for biofuels in aviation.

There are lots of reasons to want more low-carbon fuels and fuel-efficient technologies in the aviation marketplace. Along with hedging against oil price volatility and improving national security, mitigating global climate change is an important co-benefit of efforts to move off oil. Climate policy is a necessary step to help drive technological innovation and address these problems head on. The EU deserves credit for being a first-mover on this issue.

Nick Nigro is a Solutions Fellow at the Pew Center on Global Climate Change. He is responsible for research, analysis, and communication of transportation technology and policy solutions for reducing greenhouse gases. Opinions in this piece do not reflect the views of Txchnologist or General Electric.

TGR Purchases Carbon Offsets For “Deeper”, “Light The Wick” And Donates 1% Of 2010 Revenue To POW

2011-07-07T12:01:00.000-07:00

Protect Our Winters - Pacific Palisades, CA and Jackson, WY, July 5, 2011 - As climate change continues to impact winter sports, Teton Gravity Research (TGR) is taking a lead role in protecting the winter season that is the foundation for their business. TGR has taken a top-down approach to sustainability, which includes a multi-year partnership with Protect Our Winters (POW), the global environmental snow sports nonprofit and by purchasing carbon offsets for all of their winter film properties.

While film productions are inherently carbon-intensive, TGR is doing all it can to reduce their greenhouse gas emissions from throughout the production process, which includes mechanized travel and post-production. This year, for the third year in a row, TGR purchased offsets for “Deeper” and “Light The Wick” through Protect Our Winters as the last step in their carbon reduction strategy.

The offsets, which are generated by the permanent conservation of the 2,200 acre Van Eck Forest in Humboldt County, CA, and follow a rigorous carbon offset project accounting and verification process, are registered through the Climate Action Reserve. With the help of TGR, management of the Van Eck Forest Project is expected to reduce more than 500,000 tons of CO2 emissions over a 100-year period by ensuring that the existing stores in this carbon rich forest are never lost.

Secondly, TGR has also made a significant contribution to Protect Our Winters, representing 1% of their annual revenue, verified by nonprofit partner 1% For The Planet. The contribution to POW will be used to help fund their athlete-led educational program “Hot Planet/Cool Athletes” which provides a foundation for professional snow sports athletes to talk to high school students about climate change, inspiring them to become future climate leaders. “We’re excited to have the on-going support of TGR, one of our founding partners. They’re taking serious responsibility for their carbon footprint – reducing what they can, offsetting the rest and supporting organizations like POW to educate and mobilize the winter sports community”, said Chris Steinkamp, Executive Director of Protect Our Winters.

“We’re very conscious of the impact we make on the environment at TGR. The environment is the basis of our existence. We continue to evolve our behavior to minimize our impact and to utilize our broad reach to create awareness. Our partnership with POW helps address these initiatives”, said Steve Jones, TGR’s Co-Founder.

Snowboarding Slopestyle Added To 2014 Olympics

2011-07-05T23:19:00.000-07:00

Transworld Business 7/5/11 - While most of the fireworks going off last night were for the Fourth of July holiday, there were a few select ones getting lit following the announcement yesterday by the International Olympic Committe (IOC) that men’s and women’s slopestyle snowboarding and skiing will be included in the 2014 Socchi Winter Olympic Games. Also added were snowboard parallel special slalom (men and women).

Despite the ratings of snowboarding halfpipe in the 2010 Vancouver Games and a statement by media-wunderkind Shaun White that he would compete if the event were added, the IOC originally tabled the decision to include slopestyle in 2014 this April, saying it needed to further study the feasibility of adding the events.

But that all was set aside yesterday in Durban, South Africa with the following proclamation by IOC President Jacques Rogge: “We are very pleased with the addition of ski and snowboard slopestyle and snowboard special slalom in the Olympic Winter Games programme. Such events provide great entertainment for the spectators and add further youthful appeal to our already action-packed lineup of Olympic winter sports. We look forward to welcoming all the athletes to Sochi in 2014.”

Members of the USSA see this as a huge opportunity to grow the sport in the more accessible category of slopestyle: “The IOC’s decision to add slopestyle to the Olympics recognizes the millions of youth who are already participating in the sport in terrain parks around the world,” said USSA President and CEO Bill Marolt. “It will have a very positive impact on the sport including our U.S. Snowboarding and U.S. Freeskiing programs.”

“Slopestyle skiing and snowboarding are already bringing scale to our industry worldwide,” adds USSA’s Chief Revenue and Marketing Officer Andrew Judelson. “The IOC’s recognition of slopestyle is great for our sport and partners like The North Face in freeskiing and Burton in snowboarding who have also seen the youthful interest in the sports. We look forward to leveraging these new Olympic disciplines to engage consumers, drive growth and fund our athletes Olympic dreams.”

While snowboarding’s inclusion in the Olympics has had a controversial history within the core community since halfpipe was first added to the 1998 Nagano Games for the way it presents riding to the world at large, efforts by the TTR to work with the FIS on scoring should mitigate some of this and contest organizers are already expressing their excitement: “It’s great news for the sport and for the athletes, who will have the chance to enjoy more limelight,” explained Patrick Bernier, one of the founders and organizers of the Ride Shakedown. “Year after year, slopestyle attracts a growing fan following. We see it in the amateur round of our competition and in the snow parks.”

However, the nuts and bolts of the task force being organized between the two organizations leave a lot of questions open about how much say TTR will have in the actual regulation at day’s end. In an article by Matt Barr on TWSNOW he calls into serious question whether the task force will be anything more than lip service and that events outside the FIS’s scope will be included in the Olympic qualification process: An even less generous interpretation is that, if the decision to include, say, a TTR event is to be made by a FIS committee (and not the collaborative Task Force) at the essential expense of a FIS event, this is extremely unlikely to happen. After all, I’m pretty sure no turkey ever willingly voted for Thanksgiving.

Regardless, slopestyle riders see this as a positive move in general at first blush: “I think it will do a lot for the sport. It’s a great opportunity for me and other riders,” said pro Sébastien Toutant, one of the world’s best slopestyle riders. Chas Guldemond, who was recently added to the TTR board of directors and has been instrumental in founding We Are Snowboarding, an organization dedicated to supporting pros and the image of the sport says: “It is so great to finally hear that slopestyle will be included in the 2014 Sochi Olympic Games. It is an honor that the IOC feels our sport is worthy and I cannot wait to be able to try my best to bring home a medal for my country. The Olympic Games are the ultimate dream for any athlete. I know that the viewers will not be disappointed with the show that we will put on for them in 2014. This is history in the making for our sport and I am stoked to have the opportunity to be a part of it.”

The IOC also announced that it is considering adding wakeboarding for the 2020 Games.