Sustainable business models aren’t typically considered the most profitable, but these companies have found a way to prove they can be. When it comes to practicing what you preach, most companies that talk about sustainability often fall short, even though sustainable business strategies and practices can benefit both the business and the consumers.

The trend of “going green” is influencing companies around the world, from fashion to technology to houseware items. Companies are starting to see how valuable environmentally conscious actions are within a business. From production to tracking the global supply chain, sustainability calls for transparency to ensure ethical practices. A lot of companies claim to be a part of the movement towards a more eco-conscious business strategy but stop at their marketing initiatives. Sustainability must go deeper than messaging and truly reflect in practice to really make a valuable effort. Despite having a long way to go before achieving the right results globally, some businesses are leading the way.

First up on the list – we have Lush. 

Lush is a cosmetics company that has made it its mission to create products that are committed to the protection of the planet. Why not self-care with the planet in mind? As a leader in the industry – they have aligned their manufacturing, distribution, and retail shops processes with science. 

To reduce their carbon footprint, they have chosen to source fresh ingredients via sea and railroad. They even go as far as to support the communities they derive their ingredients from and protect and plant forests to replenish and sustain what they take. In recognition of the water crisis, they optimize their water consumption in the direct operations of their suppliers. Above all, they are working towards a zero-waste philosophy by avoiding single-use materials and landfills. We have a lot to learn from such an ethical company, changing the world one bath bomb at a time. 

Believe it or not – Apple has set a standard for sustainability in the tech industry. 

Apple is aiming to make every product they have to be carbon neutral by 2030. Beyond making every Apple device out of 100% recycled materials, including packaging. They have also taken the initiative to grow their own trees to reduce their carbon footprint. In terms of water consumption alone, they are taking several steps to reduce their impact, beginning with selecting the right sites and designing for water conservation and reuse. 

Through thought leadership in the space of user concern, Apple is conducting research to map, test, and configure the safest chemicals to use in their products and in the manufacturing process. This is important for a greater understanding of the effect of their products on human health and the environment. Granny Smith would be proud. Check out more from Apple’s promises here. 

In the endless season of loungewear – Pact is where it’s at. 

Throughout the entire process of raising and harvesting organic cotton to the final sewing process, this eco-conscious brand makes sure that its supply chain is as clean and sustainable as possible. By using natural farming methods, organic cotton promotes the health of soils, ecosystems, and people. Organic cotton contains no toxic chemicals and uses 81% less water than non-organic cotton. In addition, Pact offers carbon-offset shipping for a more environmentally friendly purchase. Read along here to read more about how Pact is truly making the impact they promise. 

It may be hard to turn a company “green,” but it starts with small steps that can contribute to a greater change. As consumers, it’s important that we hold the businesses we trust accountable that they follow through with the environmental messaging and practices they promise. We are all in hopes of a more authentically sustainable future.