Yvon Chouinard, environmental activist and founder of outdoor clothing company Patagonia Inc., and Craig Mathews, owner of Blue Ribbon Flies, launched1% for the Planet in 2001. At this time, over one thousand four hundred companies have joined the project and almost 2,300 environmentally organisations worldwide have received donations from them. These businesses recognise that industry and ecology are inherently connected. They also understand that the true cost of doing business can be mitigated by a simple pledge to the planet. Connecting businesses, consumers and nonprofits has great positive effects.
“The economy is a wholly owned subsidiary of the environment, not the other way around”Senator Gaylord Nelson
How it Works
The concept of 1% for the Planet is that members of the business community donate one per cent of their annual sales to environmental groups, organisations or projects around the world. This way, the businesses get the opportunity to take a lead role in being environmental stewards and to create an example for the rest of the business community. Businesses can choose one or several of the environmental organisations listed on the 1% for the Planet website – or choose their own subject to it qualifying as a 501(c)(3) (or the international equivalent) organisation, to donate their 1% to. The donations go directly from member companies to their desired nonprofits, not through 1% for the Planet – rather donations are certified by 1% for the Planet. This creates independent, personal relationships between the member companies and the groups they support.
Not only are nonprofits getting benefits from the project, it’s good for the businesses themselves as well. Joining 1% for the Planet brings a lot of benefits such as to network, conduct business and to associate themselves with like-minded companies all making a noble commitment. By being a member, companies create a positive perception of their brand to consumers, attracting the increasing number of people who recognise and appreciate the importance of environmental responsibility.
AUM and Green Australia
When Julian Markin, founder of AUM Anti-Age Organics, heard about 1% for the Planet, he was very enthusiastic. “I really liked what 1% for the Planet, stands for and believed in their message: that industry and ecology are inherently connected and that the true cost of doing business can be mitigated by a simple pledge to helping the planet. 1% for the Planet, gives individual businesses an opportunity to take a leading role in guiding the global economy toward fair and sustainable practises to ensure the health and beauty of our planet.”
Julian chose to support Greening Australia. “I believe they're reputable and are doing some really amazing work. I love Australia, and after travelling abroad extensively, I really appreciate our unique pristine landscape. After looking at the significant projects Greening Australia has undertaken, I was really impressed with their scope of work and wanted to be a part of it. I liked the idea of supporting projects that would make dramatic changes to the Australian landscape.”
“I believe everyone deep down wants to be more responsible and take better care of our planet,” says Julian. “This is an easy way they can.”
Other Australian Members and Nonprofits
Fortunately, there are many more companies in Australia that are enthusiastic about 1% for the Planet and see that they can be part of the solution.
Another Aussie member is EcoTools, which sells earth-friendly cosmetic, nail and bath accessories. Not only is this brand planet and animal friendly, they donate 1% of their sales to environmental organisations as well.
But it’s not only businesses that sell products that can join the project, also companies that provide services can also make change happen. Other Australian companies that are proud members include: Logobird Designs, a brand identity design studio in Victoria, Peppermint Magazine (QLD), X Marketing Group (VIC) and Bamboo Village (NSW).
Examples of Australian nonprofits that receive the 1% donations are Birds Australia (VIC), Information for Action Public Fund (WA) and Humane Society International (NSW).
Get involved
The environmental challenges we face are enormous, and the need for businesses to lead the way is even bigger. If you are interested in becoming a part of 1% for the Planet, as a business or as a nonprofit, take a look at their website (see link below).
Support member companies… encourage others to join… spread the word!
Because together we can work toward solving the environmental crisis, 1% at a time.
To join or find members or nonprofits visit the 1% for the Planet website.
Green Times Business Directory members who are also 1%FTP members:
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