How we Give Back

WHAT IS 1% FOR THE PLANET?

We are proud to have always put emphasis on creating an environmentally conscious brand and joining 1% for the Planet was a significant step in allowing us to make a meaningful difference. As a member, it's important to share what 1% for the Planet means and the significance it holds for us.

MAKING CONNECTIONS

1% for the Planet is a foundation dedicated to giving back to the Earth. It aims to prevent businesses from greenwashing, ensure and certify respected giving, and create accountability by building a network of certified businesses, individuals, and environmental nonprofits. All businesses must commit to donating 1% of annual sales or salary to environmental causes, creating an innovative and accessible way to give back.

The foundation creates community and connection by matching businesses with environmental nonprofit organizations that have similar values and sustainability goals. Through this relationship, the business is able to engage directly with the nonprofit to support their environmental efforts. This structure creates a full-circle system and gives businesses the opportunity to give back and protect the resources they use to make a profit. 

GROUNDED IN SUSTAINABILITY

1% for the Planet was initially founded in 2002 by Yvone Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Craig Matthews, founder of Blue Ribbon Flies, in an effort to tackle pressing environmental issues. The two businessmen recognized the impact that giving even 1% makes for environmental nonprofits working to make a difference in the world. 

According to Chouinard, "The intent of 1% for the Planet is to help fund these diverse environmental organizations so that collectively they can be a more powerful source in solving the world’s problems”. Chouinard and Mathews’ message spread quickly, resonating with companies across the globe and blossoming into the incredible network it is today.

A GLOBAL MOVEMENT 

Thanks to the system of individuals, donors, and environmental partners, the foundation has certified more than $435 million in support to approved nonprofits. On top of opening up funding, 1% for the Planet has created a global movement toward a more conscious way of operating for businesses and individuals by urging them to step up for the environment. Climate justice is multi-faceted, and the foundation helps highlight its complexity and how it arises as a systemic issue. It urges others to recognize that environmental impact intersects with social issues like urban infrastructure, gender equality, and land rights.

MOVING TOWARD A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

1% for the Planet dedicates itself to tackling environmental issues to ensure a hopeful and sustainable future. The foundation relies on the knowledge and expertise of its Environmental Partners to guide them to valuable solutions surrounding six core issue areas, including climate solutions, food solutions, land solutions, pollution solutions, water solutions, and wildlife solutions. Their overall goal is to build substantial support for these six core areas by having dedicated nonprofit environmental organizations to aid each sector.

MAKING AN IMPACT

Each year we choose a new local organization to support through 1% for the Planet. Last year, we chose a handful of organizations to give our 1% to. We donated the majority toOpen Mountains, a Revelstoke-based organization dedicated to fostering inclusive mountain culture. We also supported two other projects, one beingProtect our Winters, a non-profit that focuses on legislation surrounding climate change, and theDavid Suzuki Foundation, whose mission is to continuously protect nature’s diversity.

OUR GOAL

Kat Cadegan Jewellery has always been conscious of our impact on the environment and human welfare surrounding our creations. We commit to practices like using recycled precious metals and considering the communities, individuals, and materials behind each piece. We joined 1% for the Planet because it makes sense for us to give back in any way possible and thank the planet for creating the wonderful gems and metals we work with.

DO YOUR PART

1% for the Planet is an easy and great way to get involved with climate action and ensures your donation goes to a reputable environmental nonprofit. Whether you are a business signing up as a member or an individual purchasing that business member’s products, you can feel good knowing your money is going toward sustainable solutions.