Through rematriation (remothering the land), a centuries-old sustainable agricultural system has the power to connect Indigenous and Black people with their land in a way that is restorative, healing and rejuvenating for both people and the planet. Patagonia supports activists by sharing their stories. Credit: Patagonia
By Haoxuan Gao, Alliance Intern from Macalester College
You probably know Patagonia as a great outdoor gear and equipment seller, but they are also a model of a company committed to full sustainability. This California-based company is a Fortune 100 Top Companies to Work For and a Best Workplaces for Diversity. 91% of employees at Patagonia say it is a great place to work. It is a certified B Corp (benefit corporation) undergoing regular assessments for social, environmental and governance performance.
All the cotton Patagonia uses is 100% organically grown, and it utilizes 87% recycled materials. It sources 100% renewable energy in its stores, distribution centers, and headquarters. What’s more, it launched the “Don’t Buy This Jacket” campaign to discourage needless buying. Through this initiative, Patagonia aimed to pass on its sustainability consciousness to its consumers.
Through its cutting-edge Common Threads Initiative, Patagonia aims to create a circular economy by asking customers to sign a pledge to buy only what they need, buy longer lasting products, and use the products as much as they can and then return worn products for repair/recycling to Patagonia.
It works with the Fair Labor Association to protect its workers and increase fair trade practices to ensure humane supply chains abroad. In addition, it donated around $90 million to grassroots activist organizations over the past 35 years for climate related projects. It also encourages its employees to become activists for social justice. Source: 10 Reasons Why Patagonia Is the World’s Most Responsible Company, Green Market Oracle