Philadelphia-based company United By Blue uses bison fiber as insulation in its clothing products. It’s a coarse layer of bison hair that is sheared as part of regular maintenance. When co-founders Brian Linton and Mike Cangi learned about this underused sustainable fiber, they created a supply chain that would give them access to it before it was thrown away.
With this, they established a circular business model. And the company does not sacrifice quality: bison fiber is warm, breathable, light and soft.
United By Blue uses a variety of recycled materials, including bison wool.
United By Blue uses a variety of recycled materials, including bison wool.
Seventh Generation: Eco-friendly products and sustainable practices
Home care brand Seventh Generation uses plastic-free packaging and plastic-free solutions that aim to make the world a better place for the next seven generations.
In addition to sourcing plant-based ingredients to use in its products, the brand is committed to paying all workers in the supply chain a living wage, regardless of their workplace. Seventh Generation is also a B Corporation, meaning it meets the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance.
Screenshot of Seventh Generation website
Some of the sustainable initiatives that Seventh Generation is committed to.
Patagonia: Promoting responsible consumption
Patagonia is not one to fall for fast fashion. Instead, canadian consumer email lists it does exactly the opposite, encouraging shoppers to return broken, worn and old items so they can be repaired and returned.
The Worn Wear program allows customers to exchange and purchase used Patagonia clothing to reduce emissions and overall consumption.
The Worn Wear store sells used clothing from the outdoor brand Patagonia.
Patagonia's Worn Wear initiative includes an online store for used clothing.
Manage a sustainable business
Ready to start contributing to the health of the planet as well as your business' bottom line? By following the recommendations above, you'll join the growing movement of small businesses looking to protect the planet for future generations (and future entrepreneurs). Plus, you'll find buyers ready and willing to support you.
Share your sustainability success with customers using Shopify Email
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Frequently asked questions about sustainable business
What is meant by sustainable business?
A sustainable business describes a company that is committed to reducing its negative environmental impact. Every decision a sustainable business makes should aim to improve the environment, whether through natural materials, community initiatives, or focusing on long-term plans rather than short-term gains.
What is an example of a sustainable business?
Patagonia's Worn Wear initiative allows customers to trade in and purchase used clothing.
Meow Meow Tweet shares recycling instructions on its product and packaging pages.
Seventh Generation uses eco-friendly materials and sustainable business practices.
What are the 5 stages of a sustainable business?
Pre-compliance: When a company does everything possible to reduce costs, regardless of its impact on the environment.
Compliance: When a company complies with regulations and begins to create company policies.
Beyond compliance: When a company begins to address obvious problems, such as saving energy and reducing electrical costs.
Integrated strategy: When a company implements sustainability practices because it benefits the business.
Purpose and passion: When a company implements sustainability practices because it is best for the planet.
What is the most sustainable business?
The most sustainable businesses are those that implement fundamental strategies with the planet in mind, not just profit. They work to reduce their own carbon footprint through sustainable business models, eco-friendly materials, and green business operations while improving society with community initiatives.