1% for the Planet

1 November 2009

Posted by Cecilia under: Economy; Environment .

Started in 2002 1% for the Planet is a growing global movement of over 1,200 companies that donate a percentage of their sales to a network of more than 1,800 environmental organizations worldwide.

Founders Yvon Chouinard and Craig Mathews realized seven years ago that it was good business to protect the natural resources that kept them in business. They started to encourage more businesses to donate 1% of sales to environmental groups - first calling it Earth Tax and then 1% for the Planet.

Chouinard is the founder of outdoor company Patagonia and Mathews is the founder of Blue Ribbon Flies, a retail fly-fishing outfitter.

The growing number of members is testament to the success of this innovative idea. 1% for the Planet is a powerful way for businesses to help drive positive environmental change, gain recognition for their responsibility, and promote further action on the part of consumers and other companies.