Backpacker Magazine – March 2008

Zero Impact Challenge

Is it possible to build a backpack that doesn't contribute to global warming? Not yet, but five pioneering companies gave it one helluva try. (Cue standing ovation.)

by: Kristin Hostetter, Tables provided by Climate Cooler

Tags:
• Environment
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• Weather
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• Gear
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• Backpacks
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• Daypacks
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Key = Lowest impact (1, Green); Lower impact (2, Blue); Business as usual (3, Orange)
Design Strategies	JanSport	L.L. Bean	MSmith	Osprey	Go-Lite	Business as Usual
Low-Impact Materials
Reused / Recycled	1	1	2	1	1	3
Low energy content	2	1	2	2	2	3
Material Use Reduction
Weight reduction	2	2	2	2	1	3
Material mix reduction	2	1	2	2	1	3
Production Optimization
Use of alternative production techniques	2	1	2	2	2	3
Reduction of intermediary steps	2	1	2	2	2	3
Low/clean energy use	2	1	3	3	2	3
Waste reduction	3	1	3	3	3	3
Fewer/clean production consumables	3	1	3	3	3	3
Efficient Logistics
Less/clean/reusable packaging	3	3	3	3	3	3
Energy efficient transport mode	2	2	2	2	1	3
Energy efficient logistics	3	3	3	3	3	3
End of Life Optimization
Refurbishment	2	2	2	1	1	3
Recycling	2	1	2	1	1	3
Disposal	2	1	2	2	1	3

Go to the Zero Impact Challenge Specifications table.

Go to the Explanation of Ratings

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