As we approach World Oceans Day on June 8th, it's an important reminder of the critical role our oceans play in supporting life on Earth. Beyond their spectacular beauty and massive stretches, oceans regulate our climate, are home to an overwhelming range of biodiversity, and provide a necessary source of food and livelihood. However, they face unprecedented threats from overfishing, pollution, habitat destruction, and climate change. In this article, we'll explore how B Corporations are advocating for sustainability initiatives to protect oceans, and why their efforts are critical for a healthier planet.
B Corporations
Driving Positive Change B Corporations, or B Corps, are businesses that meet the highest standards of verified social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. B-Corps, like Saalt, Patagonia, Ben & Jerry’s, and Cotopaxi operate with a triple bottom line approach, prioritizing people, planet, and profit. From small startups, like Saalt, to multinational corporations, B Corps are leading the way in redefining success in business by prioritizing sustainability and social responsibility.
Sustainability Initiatives for Ocean Conservation
- Plastic Pollution Prevention: Plastic pollution poses a sobering threat to marine ecosystems, with millions of tons of plastic garbage entering oceans each year. Many B Corps are taking proactive actions to reduce their plastic footprint by implementing plastic-free packaging, promoting reusable alternatives, and/or participating in beach clean-up initiatives. Saalt is certified Plastic Negative meaning we remove more plastic waste from the environment than we use in production and operations. Part of our company impact efforts include partnership with Sustainable Coastlines Hawaii. SCH hosts large-scale plastic cleanup events as well as local education and advocacy. Saalt Cup Wash packaging is made from 50% post-consumer recycled (PCR) plastic. Saalt also uses post-consumer recycled water bottles in their entire Lace and Mesh leak proof underwear collection.
- Sustainable Fisheries: Overfishing depletes fish stocks disrupting marine ecosystems. Many B Corps involved in the seafood industry are committed to sustainable fishing practices, including responsible traceability, harvesting, and supporting marine protected areas.
- Carbon Neutrality: Climate change causes sea acidification, sea level rise, coral bleaching, and threatening the health and strength of marine ecosystems. Many B Corps are prioritizing carbon neutrality by reducing greenhouse gas emissions, supporting reforestation projects to mitigate climate impacts on oceans, and investing in renewable energy.
- Marine Conservation Advocacy: B Corps use their influence and assets to promote for policies and regulations that protect marine habitats, advocate for marine conservation, and reduce illegal fishing and sea pollution.
Why B Corps Matter for Ocean Sustainability
- Collective Action: By uniting corporations, consumers, and communities who have similar goals of ocean sustainability, B Corps obtain the command to pilot systemic change and create a ripple effect across businesses.
- Innovation and Collaboration: B Corps are at the forefront of innovation, developing sustainable solutions and forging partnerships with other likeminded brands and businesses to address complex ocean challenges. Through collaboration and knowledge-sharing, B Corps amplify their impact and encourage others to join the movement.
- Consumer Empowerment: As conscious consumers progressively prioritize sustainability with their purchasing power, B Corps provide a trusted certification that enables consumers to support businesses aligned with their ethics and contribute to ocean conservation initiatives.
This World Oceans Day, celebrate the precious treasures of our oceans and endorse commitment to protecting and preserving them for future generations. B Corps like Saalt exemplify the transformative power of business as a force for good, demonstrating that profitability and sustainability are not mutually exclusive. By supporting B Corps and advocating for ocean-friendly practices, we can all mutually make a meaningful difference in safeguarding the health and vigor of our blue planet.
