Arc’teryx is under fire after sponsoring a massive fireworks display in the Himalayas. The event, called Rising Dragon, has sparked outrage from environmentalists and outdoor enthusiasts who question its impact on fragile ecosystems and sacred landscapes.
In this video, we break down:
- What happened in Tibet’s Shigatse region;
- Why the outdoor community is upset;
- Arc’teryx’s response and apology;
- The company’s history of ownership changes and expansion in China; and
- What this means for the brand’s reputation moving forward.
Do you think Arc’teryx can recover its reputation with the climbing and hiking community? Leave a comment.
This video drew from the following sources:
China Daily — Fireworks display in Xizang prompts debate https://www.chinadaily.com.cn/a/202509/21/WS68cf90c8a3108622abca1fb6.html Global Times — Arc’teryx, Cai Guo-qiang apologize after fireworks display controversy in Xizang https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202509/1344072.shtml SCMP — Massive fireworks show in the Himalayas triggers blowback Global Times — Environmental concerns mount over Cai Guo-qiang fireworks in Tibet https://www.globaltimes.cn/page/202509/1344056.shtml WWD — “Arc’teryx expands in China with new flagship stores” (Nov. 2023) SCMP — “Arc’teryx thrives in China after Anta acquisition” (2022) Anta Sports / Amer Sports press release — Anta Sports leads consortium to acquire Amer Sports (2019) YouTube — Himalaya’s Explosive Art in Tibet by Cai Guoqiang & Arc’teryx Prompts Environmental Outrage https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NGtGEtg83as