As we enter 2022 with an optimistic post-pandemic attitude and a new outlook on life, it is important to also reflect upon where we as a culture can collectively grow. With climate change being top of mind for many across the globe, it’s only right that brands also have this same mentality. The climate crisis is and will continue to affect us all unless we enact real change. Brands have the power to bring attention to important issues and help implement reforms that benefit the climate rather than hurt it.
Brands can and do shift our consciousness. Supporting businesses that actually take steps to reduce their carbon footprint, make sustainability a key component of their strategic plan, and support climate legislation convinces other brands to follow suit. The International Panel on Climate Change stated that the new goal, agreed on by countries all over the world, is to limit global warming to 1.5℃. (IPCC). For this to happen, it is imperative that brands do their part and inspire consumers to join the conversation.
Grizzly has worked with many clients throughout the years that make sustainability part of their missions. In 2019, we did campaign work for Ando, a banking company that specializes in reduced-carbon banking and sustainable investing. Through our partnership, we delivered new campaign concepts that supported their growth. It was empowering to work with a company that takes pride in changing the world, one bank account at a time.
There are so many other companies taking a stand on the climate crisis by implementing sustainability plans that reduce their carbon footprint. Here are a few that have made considerable strides recently:
Patagonia has a page on its website where you can review its sustainability plan and current numbers.
Who Gives a Crap donates 50% of its profits to ensure that people have access to clean water—reminding us that the climate crisis isn’t without its side effects, namely affecting the water supply of many around the world.
Thinx is single-handedly impacting our environment by creating period-proof underwear that eliminates the need for single-use period products, which account for a significant amount of the planet’s waste. It is also committed to making sure that girls everywhere have access to period products.
Native Shoes uses vegan materials to dramatically reduce its carbon footprint. By 2023, every pair of Native Shoes will be 100% life-cycled.
Seventh Generation is a cleaning products company that is devoted to creating products that are safe for the environment—free of harmful chemicals and toxins. Its eco-friendly approach is apparent not just in its products but also in its support of climate legislation.
Reformation, an LA-based apparel company, is all about making sustainable clothing that makes a difference. On its website, you can see where each fabric was sourced and produced. The website also evaluates the carbon footprint of each piece of clothing. As a business, Reformation is determined to change the way that fashion views sustainability.
Because marketing is reflective of the cultural zeitgeist, making the climate crisis such a vital topic of discussion is just our way of harnessing the power of the movement to guide brands onward. It’s on all of us to make this world a better, more inhabitable place for everyone.
