Despite the claim made by a Think Progress poll stating that 50% of incoming Republican congressmen deny that manmade climate change exists, many are aware that we’ve been responsible for the unfortunate state that our planet finds itself in – and many are doing what they can to reduce the damage that has already been done. Those doing their part range from individuals to some of the largest brand names in the world.
Companies have the (misguided) built in excuse of not getting a return on investment for turning down initiatives designed to change the operating status quo- especially when it comes to the environment. However as the public becomes aware of the steps needed to right the wrongs of generations past and present, those that don’t invest in change are finding out that their brand power isn’t what it once was.
Fortunately, many well known brands have learned that adjusting their practices can be beneficial to both their bottom lines, and the environment. On the heels of major announcements coming from Burger King and Nestle, General Mills has vowed to use 100% sustainable canola oil for their products which include Cheerios. H&M and Wal-Mart have vowed to better the processes used to produce textiles in its Chinese factories beginning with reducing the amount of hazardous dyes that have been known to be disposed of in rivers – (a staggering 200 tons of water are polluted with every ton of fabric produced). Meanwhile, companies like Kohl’s and Janssen (owned by Johnson & Johnson) are turning to solar power in an effort to get to net-zero greenhouse gas emissions.
Many of these companies cite the need to improve the environment as the sole reason for these steps, and while we don’t doubt it is a large factor in their decision making process, there’s no question that consumer preference has played a major role in the end result. Especially with the volume of concerns heard from green shoppers across the world.
Regardless of reasoning and whether consumers are leading or merely influencing big business to change, we’re thrilled to see steps large and small being taken in the right direction for a cause that effects us all as citizens of this beautiful planet of ours.