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Outdoor Tips, Tricks, Inspiration and Activities | MEC Blog

The most popular hikes around Vancouver are known for lush forest trails, challenging terrain, and stunning views. But some of them are also known for having the highest number of search and rescue calls in BC, which affects regional search and rescue groups.

Whether you’re a visitor to BC or a local, it’s important to remember that these hikes might be easy to get to, but that doesn’t make them easy. 

*Want to learn more about planning an overnight hike from BC AdventureSmart? [Sign up for the free webinar](https://register.gotowebinar.com/register/5730286691620636686) on July 28 at 6pm PT, supported by MEC.*

## Hiking tips for popular trails

To help you [prepare for your next hike](/en/explore/day-hiking-for-beginners), BC AdventureSmart has created trail-specific safety videos for the 11 trails with the most search and rescue incidents. Watch these short videos to learn:

- Details about the terrain and elevation
- What to bring on this hike
- The best time to hike this trail
- How long this hike will take

The information in the videos can help you decide if this trail is a good match for your skills, or if it might be better to choose a different one. Here’s a closer look at some of the most popular hikes near Vancouver. 

### Stawamus Chief 
Hiking to the top of the Chief offers panoramic views of Howe Sound, Squamish, and Garibaldi Provincial Park.

AdventureSmart Trail Specific Safety Video  - The Stawamus Chief Trail

### Eagle Bluffs Trail 
Whether you hike this trail from Horseshoe Bay or Cypress Mountain Resort, Eagle Bluffs is a beautiful viewpoint.

AdventureSmart Trail Specific Safety Video - Eagle Bluffs

### Mount Seymour Trail 
Wind up through forest and past the ski resort to reach one, two or three peaks that feature views of greater Vancouver and mountains as far as the eye can see.

AdventureSmart Trail Specific Safety Video - Mount Seymour

Get ready for your hike by following these [hiking safety tips](/en/explore/how-to-stay-safe-when-youre-hiking) – your goal is to make it home safe.

Find the rest of [BC AdventureSmart’s 11 trail-specific hiking videos](https://www.adventuresmart.ca/9634/) on their website.

These popular trails are known for stunning views – and for having the most calls to Search and Rescue. Follow these tips to prepare for your hike and get home safe.

Tips to Safely Hike BC’s Most Popular Trails

Tips to safely hike BC’s most popular trails

Happy Pride Month! The outdoors is the best place to be yourself, and MEC is committed to supporting [diversity, equity and inclusion](/en/explore/diversity-equity-and-inclusion) outside all year long. With Pride season kicking off, we recognize the importance of celebrating and including LGBQT2S+ communities in the outdoor industry – and we’ve got plans across the country to do just that.

## Launch of Queer Gear Kits
MEC wants to increase equity in the outdoors, so we’re launching new annual grants to support LGBTQ2S+ community groups get more folks outside. Applications open June 16 – July 9, and we’ll select four community groups as recipients of our inaugural Queer Gear Kits. We plan to offer this grant on an annual basis. 

#### What’s in the Queer Gear Kit?
- **$1,000 grant** to put toward outdoor activities for your community group
- **Epic camp set-up** for your crew (tents, sleeping bags, camp stove and more)
- **Pride outside gear** from MEC

If you’re part of a community group that might be interested, spread the word! We’d love to help support your next adventure through this grant.

## MEC climbing events
Climbing walls at MEC stores are re-opening in June... join us in-store to celebrate Pride, get in some climbing and meet community groups. Beginner climbers are totally welcome – we’ll provide gear and have staff from climbing gyms to show you the ropes. Plus, there’ll be knowledge sessions, giveaways, chats with athletes and local LGBTQ2S+ climbing groups to connect with. We have a hunch these events are going to be super popular, and we’d love to see you there.

Locations: 
- MEC Toronto, June 25–26
- MEC Montreal, August 4
- MEC Vancouver, August 13–14

## Parkbus Pride Hike
Hey, Toronto – get ready. [Parkbus](/en/explore/parkbus), one of MEC’s [Outdoor Impact](/en/explore/outdoor-impact) partners, is putting the wheels in motion for a Pride Hike on June 26. We’re fine-tuning the details, so consider this your heads up to watch for more info. Check back and stay tuned to [@mec](https://www.instagram.com/mec/?hl=en) for more info about how to sign up. 

If you haven’t heard of Parkbus, they’re your ride to the great outdoors across Canada. It’s an awesome service that connects cities to campgrounds, canoe access points, lodges and hiking trails. 

## #AmpUpYourCampPride
We’ve got some fun stuff planned on our social channels. Throughout the summer, we’ll be showcasing individuality and creativity when it comes to creating a campsite that embodies the freedom of being yourself outside, all courtesy of awesome MEC members. Keep an eye on our [@mec](https://www.instagram.com/mec/?hl=en) Instagram channel for updates and tag us in your outdoor adventures with #AmpUpYourCampPride. 

## Building communities and allies
We know MEC staffers and members value diversity, equity and inclusion (DEI), and we’re committed to being a DEI leader in the outdoor space. As part of our journey, we’ll be adding to our pool of resources to support and educate our teams. Continually improving staff training tools will cover how to be an ally, why pronouns are so important, and the meaning and significance behind the design of Progress Pride Flag. For staffers on field experiences (outdoor courses), we’ll be encouraging folks to reflect on how we can all make the outdoors more inclusive, what Pride means to them, and sharing photos of their store’s Pride-themed adventures.

To help extend the reach of diversity, equity and inclusion in the outdoors, we’re also continuing to support DEI training and grants with our [national Outdoor Impact partners](/en/explore/partnerships). 

So much good stuff going on! Learn about a new grant, climbing events and more.

Join Us In Celebrating Pride Outside | MEC

Join us to celebrate Pride outside

Get ready to roll. Whether your city calls it Bike Month, Go By Bike Week or Bike to Work Week, it’s the time of year when people discover (or rediscover) the efficiency and fun of life on two wheels. Here are a few helpful tips to boost your pedal power.

## 1. Find a great route
A little planning goes a long way. There’s a good chance the route you drive or take transit won’t be best route for biking. Find your local cycling map to see what infrastructure exists; for example, Toronto has its own [Toronto Cycling Map](https://www.toronto.ca/services-payments/streets-parking-transportation/cycling-in-toronto/cycling-google-map/). You can usually link routes together to avoid busy traffic areas. 

Google maps also has a “biking” layer (under map details) to help you create a route, though be warned: sometimes it can give some odd suggestions for riding, so you may want to use it as a starting point and fine-tune your own route from there.

One of the best route-finding tips? Ask a fellow bike commuter. They’ll be more than happy to share advice on favourite quiet bike lanes and ways to skirt around hills. 

## 2. Ease into it
When you’re planning your rides, give yourself a bit more time than you think you need. It’s totally fine to relax and not race to your destination – in fact, that’s part of what makes biking enjoyable. You may need a couple minutes when you arrive to change and lock up too.

If you’re new to your bike route, it may be useful to try some practice rides on quiet weekends to get the hang of it before bike lanes get busy at rush hour. And if the idea of biking a full week feels outside of your comfort zone, try a single day out to start. 

## 3. Get your bike ready
You don’t need a fancy bike to ride to work, but you do need a functional one. First, pump up your tires – they’ll lose air pressure even if your bike was just sitting in your garage or bike storage all winter. Next, give your chain some TLC. It likely needs a bit of lube and it might even benefit from a nice cleaning. Check out our videos and tips on [how to clean and lube your chain](/en/explore/how-to-clean-and-lube-a-bike-chain) (it’s easier than you think and is incredibly satisfying). For squeaks and creaks you can’t fix, stop by your [local MEC bike shop](/en/explore/bike-service) for a tune up.

Finally: accessorize. You’ll need a bell, front white light and rear red light. A [well-fitting helmet](/en/explore/how-to-choose-a-cycling-helmet) is always recommended.

> “I like to keep a plastic grocery bag in my backpack in case of rain. When I park my bike outside on a light showers day, I cover my bike saddle with the bag – dry seat, guaranteed.” – MEC staffer tip

## 4. Get yourself ready
There’s a huge range of personal preferences for what to wear for biking to work, school or on errands. Some people like to ride in their everyday clothes; others prefer bike tights and cycling jackets, then change at their destination. Just remember you want to be comfortable on the bike as well as when you reach your destination. Many bike trips are also short commutes, so many riders don’t feel like they need to shower when they arrive. 

You’ll also want a way to bring lunch, your laptop and maybe a change of clothes. Panniers and a rack keep the load off your back, while a backpack is more convenient for walking around at your destination.

> “Most of my bike to work clothes are just my gym clothes with two exceptions: a good bike jacket and bike gloves. They make a big difference.” – MEC staffer tip

## 5. Lock it up, register your ride
Look into where to park your bike at your destination. There might be a special bike room, bike lockers or a covered space with bike racks; ask the building manager or other riders if you’re not sure. 

A bike lock is a must for public places and not a bad idea for any bike storage room either. Most U-locks provide a high degree of security – check out our article on [choosing a lock and how to lock up your bike](/en/explore/locking-your-bike) for great tips and advice. 

Another must many riders don’t know about: register your bike! [529 Garage](https://project529.com/garage) is a free service that lets the bike community and even police know if your bike has been stolen – and more importantly, helps with recovery if it’s been found. Your area may also have their own bike-theft prevention program in place.

> “If you plan to park your bike in public places, look for bike lights that are easy to take on and off, so you can bring them with you when you lock up.” – MEC staffer tip

## 6. Build your skills
Just because you know how to ride a bike doesn’t mean you know how to safely ride in a city. Maybe it’s been a while since you’ve biked, maybe you’re in a new neighourhood, or maybe you’ve never ridden near traffic before. If you’re not feeling confident, look into bike classes (yes, they exist for adults, and they’re fantastic). Check with your local or provincial bike advocacy group for info; many offer training materials and education.

Remember to follow the rules of the road, know how to turn at intersections, and know how to safely move with and overtake other road users. Be especially careful around parked cars, where drivers may be entering traffic suddenly, or where doors may be opening into your path. Be aware that some drivers fail to yield right-of-way, so making eye contact with drivers is big; assume that no one sees you. Wherever you ride – quiet street or busy bike route – you’ll want to communicate with drivers and other cyclists. Shoulder check and brush up on your hand signals (left-hand turn, stop, right-hand turn) and use them. 

*Have a fun and safe season of cycling! The MEC staffer community will be kicking off this month by tracking our total bike commute kilometres for some friendly competition between locations. Like the sounds of co-workers who ride? If you’re passionate about the outdoors – [we’re hiring](/en/explore/careers).*


Get ready to roll out with advice on everything from gear to route selection.

6 tips to get ready for bike to work week

We were pretty dang excited to welcome Tommy Caldwell and the [Edelrid](/en/products/climbing/c/301?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=edelrid) crew to BC for a jam-packed few days of activities. Judging by the massive line-up outside our Vancouver store, the MEC community was pumped too.

So what do you get up to when a climbing legend comes to town? You *CUDDLE*, talk climbing gear and hit Electric Avenue. A massive thank you to Tommy and Edelrid for a fun time with MEC members and staffers – check out the highlights below.

## Day 1: sold-out event
A full house! The evening talk with Tommy sold out in a record-breaking 16 hours. It was great to welcome the climbing community to our store, and all event proceeds went to the [Climbers’ Access Society of British Columbia](https://www.access-society.ca/) – **$4,136 in total**. 


## *CUDDLE* film screening
Attendees got to see Tommy Caldwell’s latest film *CUDDLE*, which covered his latest adventure in Rocky Mountain National Park with Alex Honnold and Adam Stack. 

Tommy told us that it was the first time on film that he’s “truly getting his ass kicked”. Somehow, they managed laughs between a missed resupply, a serious lack of pants, climbing exposed terrain by phone flashlight overnight, and plenty of gut-wrenching hours. 

Here's the preview to give you a sense (the full film is currently available on [Reel Rock](https://reelrocktour.com/products/reel-rock-unlimited)):

During the Q&A session, Tommy weighed in all kinds of topics: weather in the Rockies, environmental advocacy, testing the heck out of products, a 6mm simul-climbing system (for the record, not tested, not approved, not recommended), bringing kids on adventures, risk assessment, and most importantly, the snacks Adam Stack rescued them with during the CDUL (answer: enormous burritos).

Huge thanks to local groups that joined us: [Vancouver Climbers Association](https://www.vanclimbers.com/), [BelayAll](https://www.belayall.com/), [Protect Our Winters Canada](/en/explore/protect-our-winters-canada) (POW Canada) and the [Climbers’ Access Society of BC](https://www.access-society.ca/). 

Tommy shared how he likes to support at least three non-profits at a time, including the POW Climb athlete alliance. “They’re doing great work on policy to make a real difference for climate change.” We highly recommend checking out POW Canada or your local climbing group – protecting access and the environment keeps crags, cliffs and climbing areas going.


There was plenty of time to say hi, snap a pic, and get gear or books signed. An enormous stack of raffle prizes from Edelrid’s Climb Green collection rounded out the night, and the grand prize was a morning climbing session with Tommy the next day. Nice!

## Day 2: rise and climb
Bright and early the next day, raffle winners joined Tommy and folks from Edelrid, MEC Label, The Hive, POW Canada and the Vancouver Climbers’ Association at the store. 

Morning Climb with Tommy Caldwell

Edelrid and their team from Germany chatted about developing their Climb Green collection and the future of more sustainable climbing gear. They’re a leader in this space and are proof that sustainability doesn’t mean compromising safety or performance. Recycled rope, PFC-free dry-treated ropes, and bluesign®-approved harnesses are just a few of the wins. Plus, they hinted at a major announcement for 2023.

Coffee, carbs and crushing to start the day. Yep, MEC Vancouver has a bouldering wall – stay tuned for future invites to join us.

## Day 3: Squamish climb session
To round out the visit, Edelrid, Tommy and MEC staffers went to Squamish for an experiential product knowledge session. We were lucky to have three people from Edelrid Germany – the CEO and owner, head of product, and global sales manager.


Product knowledge sessions (a.k.a. PKs) are one of the ways staffers get experience with gear. “Everyone was very excited to get an informal PK where you get to try and use the products in the field, and learn directly from the Edelrid team,” said Graham, MEC staffer and climbing product expert. 

“One of the things that Edelrid developer spoke about is how they focus on the 3 Rs (reduce, reuse, recycle) when creating products,” Graham shared. “He emphasized how important reduce and reuse are, and that recycle is a last resort because the product is already made and therefore energy intensive.”

“We spent the whole day at the Electric Avenue crag, and safety was a top priority with a hired guide and the experienced Edelrid crew giving everyone the attention and support they needed,” said Graham. 

“There was a wide range of climbers and some big moments – we even had a staffer climb their first route ever (ever ever) belayed by Tommy Caldwell… not many people can say that.”

“Another staffer was coming back to climbing after a two-year hiatus, and found confidence and support from everyone,” Graham shared. “Someone else had a goal of leading a 5.10 and ended up leading (and sending) and least two of them. It was honestly just a great day to get people from stores and the office out together with a common interest.”

“Folks from the Vancouver MEC store were so happy to be there, and really sent the psyche and positivity levels through the roof.”

Thank you to Tommy, Edelrid, MEC staffers and members of the climbing community who came out to make these three days a blast. Let’s do it all again soon. For more photos from the event, check out our [full Facebook album](https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.10158454346291610&type=3).

*Like the sounds of being an MEC staffer? If you’re passionate about the outdoors – [we’re hiring](/en/explore/careers).*

We were pretty dang excited to welcome Tommy Caldwell and the Edelrid crew to BC for a jam-packed few days of activities.

We spent 3 days with Tommy Caldwell (yes, it was awesome)

It’s hard to ignore the effects of climate change as a climber. My hometown of Estes Park in Colorado, and my favourite climbing spot Yosemite, are turning from lush forests into deserts. I spend far too much time these days avoiding smoky skies. The bigger, more frozen mountains I like to climb on in Patagonia and the Alps are melting out and falling apart. Glaciers are receding rapidly.

So what’s a climber to do about it all? I started by opening my eyes and listening – being an Ambassador for Patagonia, or even a consumer of their stories, can be an amazing education. The aha moment for me was all about my ability to effect change. I joined the Access Fund to lobby about climate change. I started working with outdoor brands to be more sustainable. I’m also spreading the word to the climbing community about how their choices can have an impact. I feel like my knowledge is still pretty small and I’m just getting started, but the goal of doing my part to save the world sure does feel like the right way to live.

> Climbing makes for the best stories, so climbers become great storytellers. If we create a culture of care for the planet within our sport, maybe we can spread that story and message to a wider audience.
>
## How to look after your favourite climbing spots
As climbing areas get more popular, there becomes a need for stewards and caretakers of these crags. If this is done well, then these crags stay open. If it’s done poorly and climbers trash these places, they get closed. There are local climbing organizations in most regions doing great work. Track them down, donate your time and money.

At the crag, there are dozens of practices I could list to lower your impact. But I think the main way to look at it is like this: if you think of going to the crags as if you are visiting someone else’s home, the right practices will become obvious.

*Note: Looking for specific pointers? Check out this article on [*crag etiquette: the do’s and don’ts of climbing outside*](/en/article/crag-etiquette-the-dos-and-donts-of-climbing-outside).*



## Think about your gear choices
Choosing products that were designed with the environment in mind sends a message to companies, which in turn can spread to other companies and lawmakers to help change the way gear is made. A couple of brands doing incredible work in the sustainability space are Patagonia and Edelrid.

Patagonia is a gold standard in terms of using business to look for environmental solutions. They’re changing the systems and supply chains that affect all clothing and textile manufacturing. A few examples: testing regenerative organic cotton farming, running one of the largest apparel repair centres in North America, finding ways to source recycled materials, and vowing to be carbon neutral by 2025.

Edelrid is pioneering ways to make climbing equipment and hardware more sustainable, which is especially tricky when making equipment that your life depends on. Their track record with things like water and chemical reduction within their supply chain far surpasses any of their competitors. To make sure they’re truly walking the walk, they use third-party auditors like Bluesign, which holds textile manufacturers to the highest environmental standards. *(Note: check out the Edelrid [#ClimbGreen collection](https://edelrid.com/int-en/vertical-freedom/edelrid-news/blog/highlights-climb-green) to learn more.)*

> To help apparel last longer, I wash my clothes less and line dry. One exception is DWR waterproof-breathables – to make them last, dry them in the dryer occasionally to refresh the waterproofing.
>


## My top three more sustainable gear picks
[**Edelrid Neo 3R Rope**](/en/product/6014-246/Neo-3R-9-8mm-Rope): I use this for all my sport and single pitch climbs. It’s the world’s first rope to be made from 50% pre-consumer recycled ropes, and I’m excited about this innovation. Using recycled raw material drastically reduces the need for extraction from the ground, and cuts the carbon footprint of these products by an average of about 80 percent.

[**Edelrid Edelrid Finn III Harness**](/en/product/5063-423/Finn-III-Harness): The Finn harness has been a staple for my kids. Not only is it a high-quality and amazingly technical harness, but it’s also bluesign® certified. As a parent, I love that more and more companies are offering products that meet a strict environmental standard. The fact that the Finn is bluesign certified has allowed me and my wife to open discussion with our kids about what that means, and how by using these types of products we’re doing the best we can for the environment. 

[**Edelrid Boa Eco Rope**](/en/product/5046-712/Boa-Eco-9-8mm-Rope): I love the Boa Eco because it combines the of high-end technical functionality and sustainability. The rope is light, durable and handles wonderfully. The sheath is made from upcycled yarns, which means that every batch is different in colour – the kaleidoscope pattern is reflective of whatever yarns were available for that particular batch of ropes. Products that contain upcycled materials can be found throughout Edelrid’s assortment, and this one is definitely one of my favorites.

> I have to admit, I’m not always the best at treating my gear well. So I focus on buying the most durable gear I can to make sure it lasts a long time.
>
## How to learn more and take action
Over the past decade, I’ve become increasingly obsessed with the question of what the outdoor community can do to contribute to the salvation of our planet. There are many groups I’ve learned from along the way – you can too. Some resources:

- [Protect Our Winters Canada](/en/explore/protect-our-winters-canada): Not just for winter sports – it’s for all outdoor enthusiasts who are interested in becoming climate advocates.
- [Leave No Trace Canada](/en/explore/leave-no-trace-canada): Tips and advice on how to reduce your impact.
- [Patagonia Action Works](https://www.patagonia.com/actionworks/#!/explore/home): An incredible online tool where you can learn about and connect with local organizations, environmental groups and events.



## Related articles
- [What the heck is Bluesign?](/en/article/what-the-heck-is-bluesign)
- [Intro to climbing ropes](/en/explore/about-climbing-ropes)
- [Rock climbing checklist](/en/explore/rock-climbing-checklist)



Learn about access, choosing gear, getting involved, and ways to have an impact.

Tommy Caldwell’s Sustainability Tips for Climbers | MEC

Tommy Caldwell’s sustainability tips for climbers

Happy Earth Month! This April, MEC and our partners are celebrating with creative initiatives you can get in on. Find out how to join the Climb for Climate challenge, pick up a free sapling, upcycle your unwanted socks and take action for our favourite planet.

## Join the Climb for Climate challenge
Get outside to give back. The challenge? **Log as many vertical metres as possible** from now until April 30. For every 20m of vertical you climb, MEC will donate $1 to [**Protect Our Winters Canada**](/en/explore/protect-our-winters-canada). Our goal is 500,000 metres of vertical overall, which would equal 56 Everests and a giant $25,000 donation. Rack up the metres of elevation however you like – run, bike, ski, climb, hike, you name it. 

It’s [free to sign up](https://www.mec.ca/en/explore/climb-for-climate), you get a 1-month FATMAP Explore voucher, and yep, we’ll have prizes!

## Plant a tree for free
Head into your local MEC store on **April 22**, and pick up a **complimentary sapling** with your purchase, courtesy of tentree, a brand that plants ten trees for every item sold. It’s the perfect day to visit us if you’re in need of bike supplies for climate-friendly commutes or are looking to refresh your camping gear for human-powered adventures. Limited quantities of saplings available, so come by early.

## Go from enthusiast to advocate
To help you become an effective climate advocate and make a difference, Protect Our Winters Canada (POW Canada) has officially launched a **free Enthusiast to Advocate Training Program**. [Sign up online](https://www.protectourwinters.ca/enthusiast_to_advocate) to learn how to talk about climate change, engage and organize your community, and how to advocate for better, more equitable climate policy. We’re proud to help bring this program to life as part of MEC Outdoor Impact.

Enthusiast to Advocate

## Recycle your old socks
Only 12% of clothing materials end up getting recycled. It’s time to change that. MEC is the first retailer to introduce the [**Smartwool Second Cut Project**](https://smartwool.ca/en/second-cut-project.html)™ to Canada – let’s recycle your old socks into new gear. 

From **now until May 2**, drop off unwanted socks at your local MEC store; look for the Smartwool Second Cut Project bins. All socks are welcome, as long as they’re clean: all brands, all colours, all materials, all conditions (single socks are good too). Smartwool will give these socks new life as dog beds – nice! To date, the Second Cut Project has kept 5440kg (12,000 lb.) of material out of landfills.

Smartwool Second Cut™ Project

## Know how your gear is made
Last Earth Month, we set major [sustainability goals for MEC Label products](https://www.mec.ca/en/article/our-sustainability-goals-for-mec-label-products). This Earth Month, we want to share how we’re tracking toward our goals. We’ll be releasing our MEC sustainability progress report later this month – stay tuned to learn about the successes, challenges and new ideas springing to life. By 2025, our big picture aim is to have at least one environmental or social responsibility feature* per MEC Label product.

## Keep an eye out for more sustainable materials
If you do need to purchase new gear, Earth Month is a great time to learn about materials. A few highlights of more sustainable materials landing at MEC this season:

#### Reclaimed foam in pillows
[MEC Camp Pillows](https://www.mec.ca/en/product/5050-907/Camp-Pillow) are stuffed with cushy foam bits leftover from MEC sleeping pad production to keep scraps out of the landfill and reduce our footprint.

#### Trifecta of goodness
[MEC Fair Trade tees](https://www.mec.ca/en/products/clothing/shirts-and-tops/short-sleeved-shirts/c/1051?filters%5Bbrand%5D%5B0%5D=mec&filters%5Bcustom_fields.ideal%20for%5D%5B0%5D=casual%20wear&filters%5Bcustom_fields.product%20sustainability%5D%5B0%5D=certified%20fair%20trade) are organic cotton, bluesign-approved and Fair Trade Certified and are a favourite with MEC staffers.

#### Foam formulated with algae
[Merrell Hydro Moc Sandals](https://www.mec.ca/en/product/6016-491/Hydro-Moc-Sandals) have foam made with Rise by Bloom, a replacement for petroleum-based EVAs. It’s made partially of algae biomass and the extraction process turns green water into clean water. 

#### 60 plastic bottles in a blanket
Rumpl turns discarded plastic bottles into their cozy [Original Puffy Blanket](https://www.mec.ca/en/product/6015-154/Original-Puffy-Blanket-2-Person).

## Learn Leave No Trace skills
Earth Month is the perfect time to brush up tips to recreate responsibly outside. Whether you’re planning a spring hike or bike trip, [Leave No Trace Canada](/en/explore/leave-no-trace-canada) has great advice on ways to minimize your recreation impacts – check out the [LNT Canada site](https://www.leavenotrace.ca/home) for tips (do you know their first principle?). LNT Canada has been a community partner of MEC since they started in 2006… and we’re happy to announce they’ve got a new website coming soon with lots of resources and tools – keep an eye out. 

## Be part of our bag library
Okay, so this new [bag sharing initiative](https://www.mec.ca/en/article/bag-share-program) launched before Earth Month, but it’s prime time for a plug: if you live in Vancouver or North Vancouver, bring us your extra reusable shopping bags. We’ll add them to our bag-share pilot program and put them back in circulation. The pilot has been popular so far… but we need more bags to keep it going. 

Keep an eye on [@mec](https://www.instagram.com/mec/) for even more info about more sustainable choices in the world of outdoor gear.

**By that we mean recycled content, organic content, Fair Trade, PVC-free, Responsible Down Standard, Responsible Wool Standard, preferred Lyocell, rechargeable, Leather Working Group, or bluesign®-approved materials.*

Join the Climb for Climate challenge, get a free sapling, recycle your socks and more.

What’s going on for Earth Month

When it comes to sustainability, we like to think everyone wants to do their part. So we’re excited to bring you a new bag share pilot program in Vancouver and North Vancouver to help reduce waste.

In 2008, MEC eliminated single-use shopping bags from our stores, which keeps a massive **3.4 million single-use bags out of the landfill each year**. In all our stores, we offer reusable bags for purchase in case you have an armful of outdoor gear to wrangle. But the reality is, some of us don’t need another reusable bag (a lot of the time they end up being stuffed in a drawer or under the sink).

This is where our new bag-share program comes in.

We’re all human – sometimes we forget to bring our reusable bags. MEC’s new bag share program is here for those moments. Our plan is to have a collection of reusable bags that have been donated by customers and staff to be reused by other community members.

## How it works
Be part of bag-share history. Bring us your extra reusable bags and we’ll put them to work:

It all starts with people dropping off bags. We’ll sort (and clean, if needed) and keep these bags near the checkout desk for anyone to use if they’ve forgotten their own bag and don’t need to purchase another reusable one. If you take a bag from the bag share, bring one back to MEC next time you’re in to help someone else out and to keep the bag share cycle going.

## Think this is a cool idea? Here's how to help
**Bring us your bags**: If you have a closet brimming with excess reusable bags, we want them! Drop off your extra reusable bags to the MEC Vancouver or MEC North Vancouver stores. (We’d love it if the bags are clean before you drop them off.) Look for the reusable bag drop off bin or ask a staffer if you can’t find it.

**Keep the bag share going**: If you borrow a bag when you shop at MEC, please bring one back to the store next time for you or someone else to use.

**Spread the word**: Tell your family and friends about this new program to get the bag share off to a great start.

*The MEC bag share is a pilot program, so we’re looking forward to seeing what we learn, how it goes, and whether it’s a solution that will work in all our stores.*

Be part of bag-share history. Bring us your extra reusable bags and we’ll put them to work at our MEC Vancouver and North Vancouver stores.

New bag share pilot program at MEC stores

Bag share program

To celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, we’re highlighting three women who inspire us all year long. Meet Kieren Britton, Emma Contaoe and Anita Naidu – outdoor leaders who coach, educate and help create opportunities for adventure. 

We’re honoured to have Kieren and Emma join us as speakers at [The Empowerment Festival](/en/explore/the-empowerment-festival) coming to MEC stores between March 8–18 to celebrate International Women’s Day and diversity outdoors. Everyone is welcome – we hope to see you there!

## Kieren Britton
*Pronouns: she/her. CEO of Unity Collective and Founder/Chair of The Lady Alliance. [@kierenbritton](https://www.instagram.com/kierenbritton/)*

#### The Empowerment Festival supports The Lady Alliance scholarship program – what’s this program about? 
[The Lady Alliance scholarship program](https://theladyalliance.com/empowerment/) is entering our first full year of delivery, and we are beyond excited. Through this program, our hope is to start breaking down barriers to help change the face of leadership in the outdoors. 

The program features entry-level courses, including avalanche safety training, wilderness first aid and more. We want to grow to provide full-time career opportunities for those impacted by misogyny in the outdoor industry, and help showcase more diversity in leadership roles in the outdoors. To do so, we want to start eliminating some of the barriers to entry. Education in the outdoor industry is expensive, from the cost of the courses to the gear you need. Anyone – regardless of gender – is welcome to apply.

> My outdoors motto: “low expectations, high excitement.” Low expectations mean disappointments are rare and if conditions aren’t right, it’s easier to make safe decisions. But excitement for adventure should always be high!

*We’re looking for new chapter coordinators for The Lady Alliance in Saskatchewan, Ontario, Quebec, Manitoba and New Brunswick to grow our chapters across Canada. It's an incredible way to build outdoor communities – reach out if you’re interested!*

#### The theme for International Women’s Day 2022 is #BreakTheBias. What’s your advice for allies to help #BreakTheBias outdoors? 
After hosting and interacting with over 2,000 women+ in all walks of life through five years of our events, retreats, courses and adventures, I’ve consistently been reminded of one thing: Everyone is unique. And each approach to outdoor adventure is a unique journey. 

Yes, anyone can step outside their home or apartment and be “outside.” But if you: 

- are able to purchase, rent or find secondhand gear
- have the financial means to seek education, time-tested exposure or a guide
- have the means to travel outside your city to a trailhead or resort
- have the body capabilities to get active outdoors and chase adventure 
- can find gear that fits your body and can provide you with appropriate safety outdoors
- are able to take time off work, or find care for a child or a dependent
- live in a location where natural spaces are easily accessible

… then you are immensely blessed and lucky!

Not everyone has these. Background, culture, time, experience, finances, access, ability, education, mental state, support, home life – all of these elements (and more) play a massive role in someone's experience outdoors. 

So my advice: Avoid assumptions and grouping statements. Some of us have these privileges listed above, and some people do not. Outdoor adventure is not an equalizer, and access to the outdoors creates polarity. The moment we start to group everyone together and assume their journey was like our own is the moment our ego exceeds our ability to listen, learn and create an inclusive adventure community.

## Emma Contaoe
*Pronouns: she/her. MEC Ambassador, FQME certified rock climbing instructor and founder of Climbing Escapes. [@emmacontaoe](https://www.instagram.com/emmacontaoe/)*

#### What does #BreakTheBias mean to you in the outdoors?
For me, breaking the bias means experiencing the outdoors in your own way, whether it be going on your first hike or pursuing your biggest dream of climbing a mountain. Breaking the bias means honouring each person’s journey in the outdoors no matter their background, their experience, or their goals. The outdoors is for everyone and every body, and we all deserve to experience it in our own way.
 
Breaking the bias to me means putting aside our “standards” or expectations in that pursuit. To normalize being a beginner at something, and to not put an importance on what an “outdoorsy person” should look like. By putting our judgements aside, being open to sharing our knowledge and journey (whether big or small), and celebrating others’ journeys (whether big or small), we can reduce the barriers to entry to the outdoors and allow outdoor enthusiasts to feel welcome in this space.

#### What’s a common theme you see from participants at your Climbing Escapes retreats? 
The fact that many of us want to feel like we belong somewhere, to a community of people who see us, understand us. The fact of being present for the other, listening to their story and realizing that we can all learn something from someone else’s journey empowers us all to share our story and realize that what we have in common is that we are navigating a human experience.

> If something sparks your curiosity, just go for it. Reach out to people who are already doing it and ask questions. I’ve met some incredible people by using social media as a tool to grow my community.

#### What’s an inspiring outdoor group you think is doing great work? 
I recently discovered Hike MTL, a group that organizes outdoor events for BIPOC communities. I also appreciate Les Chèvres de Montagne, a female-led group that encourages girls to try different outdoor sports. As well, B.I.G. Initiative is a female-led organization that highlights stories of incredible humans in their communities through their films. They also run route-setting workshops for women.

## Anita Naidu
*Pronouns: she/her. MEC Ambassador, mountain bike coach, anti-racism educator and aspiring astronaut. [@abrownpanther](https://www.instagram.com/abrownpanther/)*

#### What are you most excited about for with your 2022 mountain bike clinics?
Their reach. The popularity of the clinics has just soared, with requests coming in from all over North Amercia, Europe, Africa, Asia and people willing to travel from far away to attend. I’m so excited to condense complex issues into offering a meaningful biking and learning experience combined for so many people. It’s going to be another richly rewarding summer of people reaching closer to their full potential as riders, activists and humans. 

#### What’s a common theme in your mountain bike clinics that you think is useful for others to know? 
The participants think they have to be better than they are just to start. I get so many nervous emails from people saying they have never jumped before, or they haven’t ridden a bike in years, or they’re wondering if they’re too slow for the clinic. Your starting point doesn’t matter – never apologize for being slow or for being a beginner. You are always faster than someone and slower than someone else, and every single person – from first-timers to world cup winners – is working on some aspect of their riding. Comparing just robs all the joy out of a great sport, so remember to just ride your own ride.

> Just getting started in a new sport? Demo and rent or borrow gear before buying. Try out different fits and products before investing so you can figure out your preferences because gear is so personal.

#### What does #BreakTheBias mean to you in the outdoors?
Breaking the bias in the outdoors means interrupting injustice without mirroring it. It means cultivating a tremendous amount of curiosity and patience, while questioning our own assumptions all the time and working towards progressive wins.

#### What are some ways outdoor communities can become more inclusive?  
Take anti-racism and decolonization training! It’s a mistake to think equity follows naturally from diversity. Every time I do anti-racism training sessions with people, they finally come to understand that just “getting black and brown people into the outdoors” or including them in photoshoots or ads is not the solution. Anti-racism training teaches you that it’s about reallocating power and how to reallocate such power.

## Upcoming programs
Along with The Lady Alliance scholarships, we want to spread the word about other great clinics and programs coming up. The [Alpine Club of Canada](/en/explore/alpine-club-of-canada) has a big list of adventures, most of which are subsidized through MEC Outdoor Impact:

- [BIWOC Intro to Powder Camp – Wheeler Hut](https://adventures.alpineclubofcanada.ca/WEB/Camps/Winter_Camps/2022/BIWOC_powder.aspx): In collaboration with Darken the Mountains. This session is sold out, so mark your calendar for next year.
- [Women and Non-Binary Climbing Camp – Icefields Parkway](https://adventures.alpineclubofcanada.ca/WEB/Camps/Summer_Camps/2022/Women_and_NB_Climbing_Camp_Icefields_Parkway_2022.aspx): Work on summer leading skills and gain valuable mountaineering experience. June 20–23, 2022.
- [Body Inclusive Mountaineering Program](https://adventures.alpineclubofcanada.ca/WEB/Camps/Summer_Camps/2022/Body_Inclusive_Glacier_Discovery.aspx): A four-day experience on the Wapta Icefields. August 22–25, 2022.
- [Girls on Ice Canada](https://www.alpineclubofcanada.ca/web/ACCMember/Adventures/Girls_on_Ice_Canada/ACCMember/Adventures/Girls_on_Ice_Canada.aspx?hkey=edf1c1a0-194d-4c94-87db-fa4d26dc7ef1): Unique, tuition-free wilderness science expeditions for young women. Various dates, starting in August.
- [BIWOC Intro to Mountaineering Camp](https://adventures.alpineclubofcanada.ca/WEB/Camps/Summer_Camps/2022/Intro_to_mountaineering_2022.aspx): After the success of the first BIWOC mountaineering camp in 2021, this course is now part of the regular summer roster. August 8–11, 2022.
- [Women and Non-Binary Trail Running – Rockwall Traverse](https://adventures.alpineclubofcanada.ca/WEB/Camps/Programs/Diversity_and_Inclusion_Home.aspx): Details coming soon for this first-time program… watch the ACC website for details.

To celebrate International Women’s Day on March 8, we’re highlighting three women who inspire us all year long. Meet Kieren Britton, Emma Contaoe and Anita Naidu – outdoor leaders who coach, educate and help create opportunities for adventure.

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