Many companies, including Certified B Corporations, are re-envisioning practices, packaging, products, and other parts of their business in an effort to reduce their waste production and provide customers with ways to lessen their environmental impact.

And while we can’t “buy our way out” of the climate crisis, the B Corp community can maintain its focus on doing business better by creating benefit rather than harm and by innovating — as shown in the articles below — to address the inequitable effects of climate change on those least responsible and most vulnerable.

In community,

B The Change  

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Building on the concept of zero waste — cyclical systems that prevent waste and pollution and incorporate reuse of materials — B Corps are re-envisioning their workplaces, services, and business practices to help the Earth and the economy. Learn how two B Corps in different industries — and locations ranging from mountain resorts to office buildings — are pursuing similar goals to establish circular systems that reduce impact, maximize value, and empower workers and consumers. (Also check out our guide of 7 B Corp waste-reducing swaps to help divert waste from landfills.)
 

The COVID-19 pandemic has resulted in a substantial increase in the use of disposable hygiene products like face masks and gloves — mostly all single-use plastics in the difficult-to-recycle category. Spruce, a pending UK B Corp, seeks to reduce plastic pollution through its refillable cleaning products.
 

To support businesses pursuing the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), B Lab and the United Nations Global Compact along with content advisors developed the SDG Action Manager. This impact management solution enables businesses worldwide to set goals, track progress, and stay motivated on their actions toward the SDGs.
 

As the saying goes, time is money — but time-savers like meal kits also carry other costs, including a growing amount of single-use plastic. British Columbia-based B Corp Fresh Prep believes businesses should take the lead in stemming the tide of plastic waste and now offers a reusable packaging solution for its meals made with locally sourced ingredients.
 

Here’s your chance to catch up on recent articles:

• To Zero Waste and Beyond: How B Corps Are Reducing Their Impact Through Circular Business Practices: From a Ski Resort to a Law Office, B Corps Discover New Ways to Reduce and Reuse Waste and Benefit the Economy

• 7 Zero-Waste Swaps from B Corps: An Earth Month Gift Guide: B Corp Products to Help You Live a Low-Waste Lifestyle

• Countering the Cost of Convenience: Having a Sustainable Business Model Requires a New Bottom Line: Waste

• Partnering with NGOs: 4 Keys to Success: A Long-Term Alliance Shows How Businesses Can Work with NGOs to Improve Social Impact and Find New Market Opportunities

• Work Like a B Corp: Genuine Corporate Social Responsibility Strategies to Try Now: How to Incorporate Purpose Throughout Your Organization

• What If a Stock Exchange Prioritized Long-Termism Instead of Short-Term Gains? Establishing a Market for Companies Focused on Multiple Stakeholders and Investors Who Value Sustainable Success

• How Certifications Help Companies and Consumers Verify Climate Action and Advance Sustainability: 1% for the Planet, B Corp, and Climate Neutral Nonprofits Provide Frameworks for Innovation and Collaboration

• 8 Offerings from B Corps That Give Back: An Earth Month Guide: Earth-Friendly Products and Services from 1% for the Planet B Corps