25 Sustainable Brands Paving the Way
Choosing Brands with High Impact
In today’s world, being socially responsible isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a necessity for brands looking to make a real impact. When it comes to branded merchandise (aka swag), choosing the right products is more than just about looking good—it’s about reflecting your company’s values and commitment to sustainability. In this blog, we’re showcasing 25 brands that are leading the charge in sustainable merchandising, perfect for your next project. Not only do these brands align with your corporate social responsibility (CSR) goals, but they also support communities and promote eco-friendly practices.
We’ve highlighted the certifications and programs each brand is involved in, giving you insight into how they’re making a meaningful impact. By incorporating these brands and programs into your swag strategy, you’re not just boosting credibility—you’re showing that your brand is all-in onsustainability. Ready to make a positive impact with swag that speaks volumes? Let’s dive in!
01. Ocean Bottle
OceanBottle stands out as a leader in sustainability by combining sleek design with a powerful mission to combat ocean plastic pollution. Each bottle sold funds the collection of 1,000 plastic bottles from oceans and coastlines, directly addressing the environmental crisis. Their commitment to using recycled materials and supporting coastal communities showcases a holistic approach to sustainability.
02. Marine Layer
Marine Layer is a standout sustainable brand, proudly certified as a B Corporation, which signifies its dedication to high social and environmental standards. The company prioritizes using eco-friendly materials, including recycled fabrics, and is committed to transparency in its production processes. By choosing Marine Layer, consumers not only enjoy comfortable, stylish apparel but also support a brand actively working to make a positive impact on the planet.
03. Prodir
Prodir stands out as a leader in sustainable writing instruments with its innovative Stone pen, crafted from 80% recycled materials. The brand's commitment to eco-friendly design extends beyond materials; Prodir focuses on creating durable, high-quality products that reduce waste over time. Their dedication to sustainability is complemented by a transparent production process, ensuring ethical practices at every step.
04. Tentree
Tentree is dedicated to environmental stewardship by planting ten trees for every item sold. Their comprehensive sustainability report highlights their commitment to using eco-friendly materials, such as organic cotton and recycled polyester, while prioritizing ethical manufacturing practices. Tentree’s transparent approach ensures that consumers are informed about their impact, fostering a deeper connection between customers and the planet.
05. Nimble
Nimble prioritizes sustainability by using eco-friendly materials in its tech accessories. Their products are crafted from recycled plastics, recycled aluminum, and plant-based materials, reducing environmental impact while maintaining high quality and durability. Their dedication to reducing waste is evident through their innovative recycling program, which encourages customers to send back old products for responsible disposal, making it easy to support a greener future.
06. Hilana
By transforming textile waste into beautiful, cozy products, Hilana not only reduces environmental impact but also promotes a circular economy. Their commitment to craftsmanship ensures that each blanket is not only stylish but also durable, making it a great addition to any home.
07. Patagonia
Patagonia is a leader in sustainable outdoor apparel, known for its unwavering commitment to environmental activism and responsible sourcing. The brand uses recycled materials and organic cotton in its products, significantly reducing its ecological footprint. Patagonia also encourages a culture of repair and reuse, promoting initiatives like its Worn Wear program, which extends the life of clothing. By prioritizing transparency and ethical practices, Patagonia empowers consumers to make informed choices that contribute to the health of the planet.
08. Osprey
Osprey is a top choice for outdoor enthusiasts, renowned for its high-quality, durable backpacks designed with both functionality and sustainability in mind. The brand prioritizes responsible sourcing, using recycled materials in many of its products and committing to ethical manufacturing practices. Osprey’s All Mighty Guarantee reflects its dedication to customer satisfaction, offering repairs and replacements to extend the life of their gear.
09. Tumi
Tumi is a respected brand in the travel and luggage industry, known for its commitment to quality, durability, and innovative design. Their products are crafted from high-performance materials that ensure longevity, making them ideal for frequent travelers. Tumi also emphasizes sustainability by incorporating eco-friendly practices in their production processes and offering a lifetime warranty that encourages repair over replacement.
10. Miir
Miir is committed to social and environmental responsibility, with a mission to create durable, high-quality products while giving back to the community. For every product sold, Miir funds a nonprofit project focused on clean water, healthy food, and education, making a tangible impact on global challenges. Their dedication to sustainable materials and manufacturing processes ensures that each item not only performs well but also minimizes environmental impact.
11. Keep Cup
KeepCup is a pioneering brand in the movement toward reusable coffee cups, dedicated to reducing single-use waste and promoting sustainable consumption. Their products are designed with both functionality and style in mind, encouraging consumers to make eco-friendly choices without sacrificing aesthetics. KeepCup’s commitment to ethical sourcing and responsible manufacturing ensures that every cup supports sustainable practices.
12. Earthwell
Earthwell prioritizes sustainability and social responsibility through its eco-friendly products and commitment to giving back. By using high-quality, recyclable materials in their insulated bottles and containers, Earthwell reduces environmental impact while promoting a reusable lifestyle. The brand also actively supports various organizations focused on environmental conservation and community well-being, ensuring that a portion of every purchase contributes to meaningful initiatives.
13. Peak Design
Peak Design is a leader in sustainable camera gear, dedicated to creating high-quality products while prioritizing environmental responsibility. Their commitment to sustainability is evident through their use of recycled materials and ethical manufacturing practices, ensuring that every item minimizes its ecological footprint. Additionally, Peak Design actively engages in social initiatives, donating a portion of profits to environmental causes and supporting community projects.
14. Karst Goods
Karst Goods stands out for its commitment to sustainability and innovation in the stationery industry, using recycled stone paper that significantly reduces plastic waste. Their products are not only eco-friendly but also designed to be durable and waterproof, offering a practical alternative to traditional paper. Karst prioritizes ethical production practices and transparency, ensuring that every step of their manufacturing process aligns with their environmental values.
15. Rumpl
Rumpl expertly combines performance and sustainability in its outdoor blankets and gear, utilizing materials like recycled plastic bottles and post-consumer waste. Their products are designed for durability and versatility, featuring water-resistant and insulated options that are perfect for any adventure, whether camping or lounging at home. Rumpl’s commitment to environmental responsibility extends to their participation in initiatives such as 1% for the Planet, ensuring that a portion of their profits goes to environmental nonprofits.
16. Cotopaxi
Cotopaxi is a socially responsible brand that prioritizes sustainability and ethical practices in the outdoor apparel and gear industry. Known for its vibrant, colorful designs, Cotopaxi uses responsibly sourced materials and repurposed fabrics in its products, minimizing waste while supporting fair labor practices. The brand is dedicated to making a positive impact through its "Gear for Good" initiative, pledging a percentage of profits to community-driven development projects in Latin America.
17. Nomadix
Nomadix is dedicated to sustainability, crafting versatile towels and blankets from recycled plastic bottles to help reduce landfill waste. As a certified Social Purpose Corporation, they prioritize environmental and social impact alongside profit, ensuring their operations benefit both consumers and the planet. Additionally, their Climate Neutral certification reflects a commitment to measuring, offsetting, and reducing their carbon footprint, showcasing their proactive approach to tackling climate change.
18. Day Owl
Day Owl is committed to sustainability and ethical production in the bag and accessory market, proudly holding B Corporation certification. Their products are made from recycled materials, including post-consumer plastic bottles, and are designed to be durable and long-lasting, promoting a circular economy. Day Owl emphasizes transparency by providing detailed information about their supply chain and environmental impact, ensuring consumers make informed choices.
19. Parker Clay
Parker Clay is an exceptional brand dedicated to sustainability and social impact through its ethically crafted leather goods. They partner with Ellilta Women at Risk, an organization that empowers women overcoming exploitation and poverty in Ethiopia, providing them with fair wages andsafe working conditions. By sourcing materials locally and using sustainable leather, Parker Clay minimizes environmental impact while supporting the artisans in their community.
20. Tony’s Chocolonely
Tony’s Chocolonely is committed to creating a fairer chocolate industry by ensuring that all its products are 100% slave-free. The company actively works to combat child labor and exploitation by sourcing cocoa directly from farmers and paying them a premium, which helps improve their livelihoods. Tony’s also promotes transparency in its supply chain, providing consumers with insight into where their chocolate comes from.
21. Storm Creek
Storm Creek’s commitment to a "Better Planet" includes using recycled materials, such as recycled polyester, in their products to reduce environmental impact. By incorporating these sustainable materials, they help divert waste from landfills while creating high-quality apparel. The brand also prioritizes responsible sourcing and manufacturing, ensuring fair labor practices throughout their supply chain. In addition to their eco-friendly materials, Storm Creek actively engages in water conservation initiatives and focuses on reducing their carbon footprint in production.
22. Made Free
Made Free is a remarkable brand dedicated to ethical practices and sustainable social reform in the apparel industry. By providing livable wages and empowering workers, Made Free creates a dignified pathway out of extreme poverty, reducing the risk of trafficking and exploitation. Each item is produced in factories that meet or exceed World Fair Trade Organization (WFTO) standards, ensuring safe working conditions and fair labor practices, making every purchase not just a choice for style, but a meaningful contribution to social change.
23. Herschel Supply Co.
Herschel is part of the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, collaborating with industry leaders to reduce environmental impact and promote social justice throughout the global supply chain. Since 2020, Herschel has donated over $1,000,000 worth of products to support communities in need, demonstrating their commitment to giving back.
24. Allbirds
Allbirds is a pioneering brand committed to sustainability in the footwear and apparel industry, using natural materials such as merino wool and eucalyptus tree fibers to create eco-friendly products. Their transparent approach includes a detailed Life Cycle Assessment, which shows that their shoes emit significantly less carbon than conventional footwear—up to 30% lower. Allbirds is also proud to be a certified B Corporation, reflecting their dedication to social and environmental responsibility.
25. Rareform
Rareform embodies the principles of corporate social responsibility by transforming discarded materials into unique and stylish products. Each item, made from upcycled billboard vinyl, not only diverts waste from landfills but also gives a second life to materials that would otherwise go unused. By focusing on sustainable practices, Rareform not only reduces environmental impact but also supports local artisans and craftspeople, ensuring fair labor practices throughout their production process. With Rareform, consumers can enjoy one-of-a-kind products that reflect both personal style and a dedication to environmental sustainability.
