Sustainable design success stories: Patagonia, Freshprep, and more

In a world where sustainable design is becoming increasingly crucial, it’s inspiring to see how businesses are making a positive impact through their commitment to eco-friendly practices and values-driven missions. At iilo Creative Alliance, we love nerding out on a sustainable design job well done, so we’re excited to share some remarkable fellow B Corps that have nailed this challenge and captured our hearts. By the way, we don’t have any business affiliations with these companies, we just love them!

1. Allbirds – Redefining packaging excellence

Allbirds, an innovative footwear company, has taken sustainable packaging to new heights. They’re not just known for their comfortable and eco-friendly shoes. They’ve also revolutionized their packaging. At iilo, we appreciate how Allbirds has prioritized environmentally conscious packaging. Their commitment to reducing waste and minimizing environmental impact aligns perfectly with the principles of sustainable design.

2. FreshPrep – Nourishing with purpose

FreshPrep, a Canadian meal prep kit company, stands out as a Certified B Corp that takes sustainability seriously. They prioritize sourcing locally within British Columbia and Alberta, reducing food miles and supporting local communities. We’re fans of FreshPrep for their low-waste and zero-waste packaging, as well as for their commitment to high-quality, delicious meals. As iilo co-founder Madelen can attest, “Their tasty recipes make you feel like you’re having a restaurant quality meal, and every bite feels like a sustainable choice. Win-win!”

3. Patagonia – Activism through apparel

Patagonia, an iconic outdoor clothing company, has long been a leader in sustainability and activism. They’ve successfully integrated their values into every aspect of their business, from supply chain transparency to fair labour practices. Patagonia’s storytelling prowess sets an example for how a company can communicate its values effectively, inspiring customers to make conscious choices.

4. Aisle – Redefining period products

Aisle, known for its reusable period products, goes beyond sustainability. Aisle’s approach to marketing and communications has been to normalize menstruation and counter the period-shaming narrative that has plagued the industry for decades. We also admire Aisle for their commitment to inclusivity and representation in their marketing, celebrating women of all shapes, sizes, and colors. They’ve made a positive impact on women’s lives while reducing waste.

5. Make it Accessible – Digital sustainability

Make it Accessible, founded by Manoverboard, focuses on web accessibility. Their dedication to creating accessible digital experiences showcases how sustainable design extends to the digital realm. As long-time believers that sustainable design is accessible design, we love what they’ve done to educate others on the importance of inclusivity in web design.

6. Affinity Bridge – Web for changemakers

Affinity Bridge is a Vancouver-based web development team and fellow B Corp that specializes in values-oriented web solutions. Their passion for social and environmental change and focus on supporting changemaker clients resonates deeply with us. They’ve successfully combined their web expertise with a passion for making a positive impact, aligning their business with a higher purpose.

7. Natural Pod – Where wood stores carbon

As Natural Pod’s co-founder Bridgitte Alomes puts it, “Good design comes back to thinking about how to mindfully use materials to their fullest.” Their products showcase the beauty of sustainable design that’s deeply rooted in nature and each product has more than one purpose allowing for multiple uses. We appreciate their use of FSC® C012337-certified materials (Forest Stewardship Council) and their commitment to utilizing wood as a sustainable material that stores carbon, contributing to environmental conservation.

8. Chandos Construction – Building a sustainable future

Chandos Construction is the first and largest B Corp certified national technical builder in North America. It’s a rare treat to find a B Corp in the construction industry, let alone an employee-owned one! We love the way they share their story on their website, especially how it invites conversation and sparks curiosity.

9. Cheekbone Beauty – Beauty with a purpose

Cheekbone Beauty, an Indigenous-owned Canadian company and Certified B Corp, is making waves in the beauty industry. Their founder, Jenn Harper, is an inspiring figure who has combined her passion for beauty with a mission to make a difference in Indigenous communities. They’re excellent at communicating their values through their product development and branding, letting three core principles guide them: Indigenous roots, sustainable by nature, and clean colour. Cheekbone Beauty has shown that “clean and sustainable does not have to be plain and bland.”

These remarkable companies showcase the diverse ways in which sustainable design can make a meaningful difference in the world. They demonstrate that sustainability isn’t just about reducing environmental impact; it’s about aligning values with actions and storytelling. We hope these success stories inspire more businesses to embark on their journeys towards a more sustainably designed future.

If you’re looking for guidance on incorporating sustainable design into your business strategy, don’t hesitate to reach out to iilo Creative Alliance. Together, we can create a sustainable design success story for your brand.