REI's Quadruple Bottom Line for Sustainability, Ep. 118

In this episode of Smart Energy Voices, host Debra Chanil speaks with Andrew Dempsey, Director of Climate at REI, about the cooperative’s evolving approach to sustainability. Andrew shares REI’s commitment to local and accessible renewable energy and how the co-op is working to ensure its energy procurement has meaningful community impact. They explore the growing convergence of energy and climate within corporate structures, and how REI’s climate strategy is directly tied to protecting the outdoor experiences that define its brand. Andrew discusses the role corporates can play in advancing climate solutions beyond compliance by leading with voluntary commitments and supporting innovation. You will want to hear this episode if you are interested in… REI’s cause and its structure as a co-op (01:29) How REI approaches its sustainability work (04:51) How REI’s corporate sustainability team operates (07:05) The co-op’s renewable energy journey and strategy (10:10) REI’s climate programs and tools to achieve their goals (14:15) REI’s approach to community impact and accessibility (20:45) Role of corporates in driving climate action (24:43) For detailed show notes, click here. Connect with Andrew Dempsey On LinkedIn Andrew Dempsey is the Director of Climate at REI, where he focuses on driving transformational change throughout the organization by leading the co-op’s climate, energy, and waste strategies. His work is centered on achieving impactful outcomes for REI’s business, employees, and broader community of members. Prior to REI, Andrew worked at Google, focusing on sustainable design and organizational strategy at the intersection of technology, experience, and human health. Andrew holds a Master of Science in Civil and Environmental Engineering from Stanford University and a Bachelor of Environmental Design from the University of Colorado at Boulder. Connect with Smart Energy Decisions Smart Energy Decisions Follow us on LinkedIn Subscribe to Smart Energy Voices on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Android, Spotify, Stitcher, TuneIn Radio, aCast, PlayerFM, iHeart Radio If you're interested in participating in the next Smart Energy Decision Event, visit smartenergydecisions.com or email our Community Development team at [email protected]