There’s no denying that we can’t solve climate change without immense time, effort, resources and cooperation. It’s up to everyone, not just individuals, to do their part. Though we can’t pin the blame on one entity, we do know corporations play a role in waste and emissions production, which means they have to step up their game.
Fortunately, many social-impact businesses worldwide have already transitioned to processes that help the planet, and as a consumer, you can celebrate Earth Day with them.
1. YesStraws
Recently, plastic straw alternatives have become a popular trend. That’s for good reason when you consider that plastic waste has accumulated in the ocean at excessive levels. This situation leads to pollution that threatens our world’s ecosystem. It’s not climate change’s most substantial issue, but we still need to find solutions.
YesStraws does just that. This company makes single-use, compostable straws from wheat and cane. These products don’t leave a trace after you toss them in the trash or compost, as they break down fast. Based in Eastern Europe, YesStraws uses materials in overabundance — and it educates the community about sustainability along the way.
2. TerraCycle
TerraCycle has become a leader in eco-friendly waste management. Through its recycling services, TerraCycle gives individuals, businesses and communities a way to reduce how often they contribute to landfill waste. This company also owns Loop, which ships and sells eco-friendly products to consumers.
Everyone should have access to recycling services. Unfortunately, many communities have strict rules and regulations that make recycling more difficult than necessary. There are social norms that impact how often people recycle, too. That’s exactly what TerraCycle aims to change.
3. Pathwater
Did you know more than 62 million Americans have been exposed to poor-quality drinking water? This issue requires various solutions — and Pathwater offers one: responsibly-sourced water in reusable water bottles. It’s an effective strategy to help eliminate the plastic waste issue that plagues our lands and oceans.
If you’re ever thirsty when you’re out and about, you can find Pathwater in grocery stores, gas stations and other shops. You’ll have access to sustainably sourced, clean water in a pinch — and you can keep the container as a reusable water bottle for future use. These bottles are also recyclable.
4. The Honest Co.
Since Earth Day’s inception back in 1970, consumers have pushed for greener products across the board. That includes cleaning and baby products, which The Honest Co. specializes in. From shampoo to glass cleaner to moisturizer, you can find eco-friendly items in its selection every day — not just on Earth Day.
Founded by Jessica Alba, The Honest Co. prioritizes recyclable packaging, natural ingredients and other sustainable processes. There’s also an emphasis on community outreach, shown through disaster relief and supply donations. These are all crucial factors in the fight to protect and preserve our planet.
5. Reformation
Have you ever wondered how your clothes are made? These processes often involve what’s called “fast fashion,” where companies produce several cheap garments at once to meet demands and trends. That’s detrimental for various reasons, as this wastes resources, exploits labor and increases emissions.
Fortunately, brands like Reformation exist to fight that phenomenon. This company sells women’s clothing with a sustainable mission. Essentially, it builds safe working environments for employees, releases products in small, limited quantities and partners with the Fair Labor Association. Reformation also releases a yearly report on its eco-friendly endeavors. These initiatives are all designed to produce quality clothing in a safe and sustainable manner.
Shop consciously this earth day – and every day
If we don’t work together as a planet, we’ll never make progress in the fight against climate change. That’s why commemorative days like Earth Day make a difference. It’s a time for everyone to join forces — and that includes companies. If you’re on the hunt for businesses that prioritize sustainability, you can explore the ones listed above.
