With so many insulated jackets on the market lately there are almost too many to choose from. So many companies are claiming their product is the best when in actuality they are all very similar. With jackets so similar these days, buying from a sustainable company is more empowering than ever. Patagonia and RAB Equipment are standing out in product sustainability.
This year RAB Equipment started to use GRS certified P.U.R.E. recycled down. In doing so they are helping eliminate waste and promote an environmentally friendly practice for other companies to follow. Beyond sustainable product development, RAB Equipment has been working to move their company to reach net zero by 2030. RAB has been certified by the climate solutions provider South Pole. Working with South Pole, RAB is investing with Kariba Forest Protection in Zimbabwe. This project has helped protect nearly 2 million acres from deforestation and promotes carbon sequestration. By investing in carbon offsets RAB is reducing their carbon footprint and moving forward as a climate fighting company. Their main office and warehouse are 100% renewable, they have removed plastic packaging, and are increasing their use of recycled materials in products.
RAB Khroma Kharve: Photo by Domi Frideger
Patagonia uses similar practices to RAB Equipment. 80% of Patagonia’s down is recycled. This has helped Patagonia reduce 150 metric tons of CO2. Since the beginning Patagonia has been a climate forward company. Their most powerful business move is a self-imposed Earth Tax. This means 1% of Patagonia’s profits go towards protecting the environment. Over the past 30 years, Patagonia has given 89 million in cash to domestic and international grassroots environmental groups. CEO Yvon Chouinard helped start the non-profit 1% for the Planet to encourage other business to donate 1% of profits to the environment. Working with over 1500 environmental groups Patagonia is helping protect the planet. By supporting the Boundary Waters Wilderness Act, Patagonia is helping protect one of Americas most visited wilderness areas from mining. Patagonia is working to protect the Artic National Wildlife Refuge with Gwich’in people who have relied on the Caribou for thousands of years. Now at threat from drilling in the refuge. Patagonia is also fighting to protect the Clean Water Act. Among these stewardship acts Patagonia is upholding their commitment to protecting our planet.
Patagonia Fitz Roy: Photo by Lauren Chapple
Purchasing with companies who give back to the environment is more than consumerism. You are helping foster healthy and environmental ethics for companies to follow. Patagonia is leading the charge in showing the world companies have the power to help. RAB is following suit and both are promoting sustainable practices in the clothing industry.