Zug, Switzerland – 09 March 2010 Following a lengthy and detailed application process, the EOG Association for Conservation is thrilled to announce that it has been admitted into membership of the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN).

Founded in 1948, the IUCN brings together States, government agencies and a diverse range of non-governmental organisations in a unique world partnership which seeks to safeguard natural resources at local, regional and global levels.

Holger Bismann, President of the EOG Association for Conservation, and General Manager, Patagonia (Europe) said, “The reason we wanted to become a part of this forward thinking, global organisation was to benefit from the expert advice available to help improve our decision-making as to the most worthwhile types of projects to support. We will also be able to use IUCN resources to help improve awareness within the outdoor industry about the need for conservation and responsible, sustainable behaviour in wild places”.

“The Association is a voice both for and directly to the outdoor industry across Europe. The heart of the industry – both industry players and their customers - is firmly placed in the great outdoors and experiencing nature in all its glory. Without guidance, this can and does lead to misuse and abuse of the environment”, he added. “The Association’s main goal is not only to make a difference by raising funds to put something back into the environment, but also to inform and educate all those who use the outdoors as their playground”.

Tanya Bascombe, General Manager for the Association added, “As we (the Association) are still a very young organisation, we have a great deal to learn about conservation and protection of the environment and what types of projects we should be concentrating on to ensure we benefit the environment, habitats and biodiversity the most. By using the services offered by the IUCN, we hope to promote and encourage responsible, sustainable behaviour through outdoor sports as well as providing a mechanism for giving something back to the environment through both financial and practical means”.

The EOG Association for Conservation - Working to protect the outdoor environment for future generations.