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Suunto Vertical Week 2026: A Celebration of Climate Action

In an impressive demonstration of collective effort, the 2026 edition of Suunto Vertical Week brought together outdoor enthusiasts from around the world, culminating in a staggering total of 136 million vertical meters climbed. This achievement not only surpassed the campaign's target of 10 million meters but also unlocked a significant €10,000 donation from Suunto to Protect Our Winters Europe (POW Europe). This initiative, which ran from February 23 to March 1, exemplifies Suunto’s commitment to sustainability and climate advocacy.

Since its inception in 2014, Suunto Vertical Week has encouraged individuals to embrace the great outdoors, pushing their personal limits while engaging in activities that benefit the environment. This year, a remarkable 189,000 participants took part in the challenge, with the most popular activities being running, walking, and cycling. The enthusiasm was palpable, especially in countries like the United Kingdom, France, and Germany, where participation was notably high.

Powers of Partnership

Suunto's partnership with POW Europe has grown even stronger, offering a platform for the outdoor community to rally around climate advocacy. The collaboration aims to draw attention to the impacts of climate change on winter and mountain environments, emphasizing the need for proactive measures. Benjamin Aidan, Partnership Director at POW Europe, remarked on the campaign's success, noting how it translates community motivation into substantial support for climate action.

This year’s effort has shed light on the pressing issues facing the climate, encouraging participants to contribute to a greater cause while enjoying their passion for the outdoors. By showcasing what the outdoor community can achieve when united by a shared mission, Suunto Vertical Week has become more than just a challenge; it is a call to action.

90 Years Strong and Committed to Sustainability

As Suunto celebrates its 90th anniversary in 2026, it continues to elevate its sustainability mission. The company is steadfast in its dedication to tracking its climate impact with science-based targets. Celebrating nearly a century of innovation, Suunto seeks to minimize its carbon footprint through comprehensive lifecycle assessments of its products. This commitment includes initiatives like compensating for carbon emissions linked to its outdoor watches and compasses, supporting certified carbon projects.

Suunto emphasizes product longevity as a key strategy in lessening environmental impact. With robust product designs and repair services, the company aims to reduce waste and promote sustainability in outdoor gear. Recent commitments to the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) further validate Suunto's ambitions, as the company works towards defined emissions reduction targets in line with the Paris Agreement. During 2026, Suunto will submit its near-term targets for SBTi validation, signifying the company's ongoing evolution in lifecycle management and climate responsibility.

Positive Impact and Community Engagement

A recent analysis by The Upright Project revealed that Suunto's overall impact is notably positive, with the company generating 36% less negative impact compared to its contributions to society, health, and knowledge. An important aspect of Suunto's mission is its role in supporting physical health through activity tracking while maintaining solid commitments to ethical practices in raw material sourcing and waste management.

Looking ahead, Suunto aims to strike a balance between innovation, sustainability, and community engagement, reinforcing its legacy of supporting adventure while prioritizing climate action. The 90-year milestone is a reminder of the importance of creating durable, high-quality products that inspire people to explore the outdoors while being mindful of their environmental footprints.

Join the Movement

For those eager to learn more about Suunto's sustainability efforts or to dive deeper into participant stories and statistics from this year's Vertical Week, the resources are plentiful. Visit Suunto’s official website for comprehensive insights and continued involvement in future challenges and initiatives.

As the outdoor community rallies for the health of the planet's winter landscapes, Suunto remains at the forefront, providing the tools needed for exploration and environmental consciousness. Together, through actions large and small, we can foster a healthier planet for tomorrow's adventurers.