10 Sustainable Campaigns That Raise Awareness on Environmental Impact

In an age where sustainability is no longer a choice but a necessity, more and more brands are acknowledging their responsibility to do better for our planet. Forward-thinking businesses are breaking the mold, making sustainability not just a buzzword or marketing, but an integral part of their mission and operations.

These brands aren't just limiting their impact on the environment; they're taking it a step further, setting new standards for corporate social responsibility, launching meaningful programs, and paving the way for a more sustainable future. 

This article celebrates ten inspiring sustainability campaigns that exemplify how businesses and social media can and are driving positive change.

IKEA - Buy Back Sustainability campaigns

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Ikea, the multinational furniture retailer, is known for its consistent commitment to sustainability and sustainable living. They've made significant strides in reducing their environmental footprint and creating products that help customers live more sustainably at home.

Issue Targeted

The global problem of furniture waste and the lack of affordable, eco-friendly options for consumers.

Creative Solution

Ikea launched its 'Buy Back' initiative in 2021, allowing customers to sell their old Ikea furniture back to the store in exchange for store vouchers. This innovative scheme encourages customers to consider the lifecycle of their products, promoting reuse over disposal.

Contribution to Sustainability

The program has successfully encouraged a cycle of reuse, reducing furniture waste and creating more affordable options for Ikea customers. By giving the furniture a second life, Ikea is helping to reduce the demand for new products and the environmental cost of production.

Furthermore, the 'Buy Back' initiative supports Ikea's ambitious goal to become a fully circular and climate-positive business by 2030. The company is demonstrating that responsible practices can be integrated into business models in ways that benefit the customer, the company, and the planet.

Link to materials

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=429sSl8RN7c

Additional Note

Ikea's commitment to sustainability doesn't stop there. They've also invested in renewable energy, switched to EV delivery vehicles in some cities, and started using mushroom-based packaging to reduce plastic waste, thereby showing how businesses can be both profitable and environmentally conscious.

Corona - Plastic Fishing tournament

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Corona, a prominent beer brand from AB InBev, helped raise awareness of plastic pollution and promote sustainability. This practice is deeply rooted in their longstanding partnership with Parley for the Oceans, an organization focused on protecting marine ecosystems. 

Issue Targeted

Plastic pollution in the Pacific Ocean, particularly in Mazatlán, Mexico, a popular tourist spot. 

Creative Solution

In 2021, Corona partnered with México Recicla, a local recycling company, and environmental group MazConCiencia to organize a Plastic Fishing Tournament. They invited local fishermen to collect plastic from the ocean, offering cash prizes as an incentive. 

Contribution to Sustainability

The turnout was impressive, with over 60 fishermen removing 2.9 tons of plastic in just four hours. The collected plastic was then recycled by México Recicla, contributing to the reduction of plastic waste in the ocean. 

This initiative not only cleansed the marine environment but also showcased the potential of plastic collection as a local income source. It aligns perfectly with Corona's sustainability goals, demonstrating a successful corporate-community collaboration that addresses plastic pollution while providing economic opportunities for the local community.

Link to materials

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=hVgfau78vgE

Additional Note

México Recicla, based in Ecatepec, is changing its narrative, known for high rates of femicide, by employing and empowering women. About 60% of their workforce is female, highlighting the gender equity and empowerment side of this sustainability initiative. Since Corona's partnership with México Recicla began in December 2020, they've collected over 5 million kg of plastic, reflecting the initiative's significant impact.

Loop by TerraCycle

TerraCycle, a U.S.-based recycling company, launched "Loop" - a global circular shopping platform designed to inspire everyone to eliminate waste by transforming the products and packaging of everyday items from single-use to durable, multi-use, feature-packed designs.

Issue Targeted

Single-use packaging waste and a lack of effective recycling solutions for various consumer products.

Creative Solution

In collaboration with major brands, Loop provides products in specially designed durable packaging that is returned, cleaned, refilled, and reused to reduce waste. Customers can purchase products from Loop’s online platform, paying a deposit for each package.

Contribution to Sustainability

Loop's program is reducing reliance on single-use packaging, promoting circular economy principles, and decreasing the volume of waste that goes to landfills.

Link to Materials

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=fBwsWuJw-Kc

Additional Note:

Loop's innovative model represents the future of sustainable commerce, aligning digital marketing with the interests of consumers, brands, and the environment.

Adidas x Parley for the Oceans

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Adidas, a globally recognized sportswear brand, teamed up with Parley for the Oceans, an organization dedicated to reducing ocean plastic, in a unique collaboration promoting sustainability.

Issue Targeted

The problem of marine pollution and the excessive use of virgin materials in the sportswear industry.

Creative Solution

Adidas and Parley initiated a project in 2019 to address marine pollution by producing high-performance sportswear from upcycled marine plastic waste. Their signature product, the Adidas x Parley running shoe, is crafted mainly from ocean plastic sourced from clean-up operations in the Maldives.

Contribution to Sustainability

Adidas x Parley shoes successfully repurpose marine waste, with each pair recycling approximately 11 plastic bottles. This initiative demonstrates a viable alternative to virgin materials in the textile industry.

In 2023, they reached another significant milestone with the "Futurecraft Loop", the first fully recyclable performance running shoe. Once the shoe reaches the end of its life, it can be returned to Adidas to be broken down and reused to make new footwear, closing the loop on waste.

Link to materials

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=oOdZCjr95GU

Starbucks' Greener Stores Initiative

Starbucks, the global coffee chain, launched the "Greener Stores" initiative, a plan to design, build, and operate 10,000 “Greener Stores” globally by 2025.

Issue Targeted

The energy consumption and environmental impact of operating large numbers of retail outlets.

Creative Solution

The "Greener Stores" framework focuses on improving performance in areas like energy efficiency, water stewardship, waste reduction, and healthier environments, incorporating these features into new store designs and renovations.

Result and Contribution to Sustainability

This program aims to reduce the environmental footprint of Starbucks' stores, promote sustainable practices and resource efficiency, and improve the well-being of both partners and customers.

Link to Materials

https://stories.starbucks.com/stories/2023/whats-inside-a-greener-store/

Patagonia - Worn Wear Program

Patagonia, a renowned outdoor clothing brand, launched the "Worn Wear" program in 2013 as part of its commitment to environmental and social responsibility.

Issue Targeted

The environmental impact of fast fashion and the culture of disposable clothing.

Creative Solution

Through the Worn Wear program, Patagonia sends a sustainable message to customers to extend the lifespan of their garments. Customers can return, exchange, or repair their used Patagonia clothes in stores. These items are then cleaned, repaired if needed, and resold on the Worn Wear website at a discount.

In 2021, the program expanded with the introduction of "ReCrafted," which takes damaged goods and transforms them into unique clothing, accessories, and gear made from at least 70% recycled materials.

Contribution to Sustainability

By 2023, the Worn Wear program will have effectively reduced the quantity of clothing going to landfills and will have become a key part of Patagonia's business model. The initiative not only saves wearable goods from landfills but also reduces the demand for new products, thereby lessening the environmental impact.

Link to materials

https://wornwear.patagonia.com/repairs

LEGO's Plants from Plants Initiative

LEGO, the world-renowned toy company, introduced its "Plants from Plants" initiative, a first step in its ambitious plan to manufacture all its products from sustainable materials by 2030.

Issue Targeted

The environmental impact of plastic production and waste.

Creative Solution

The "Plants from Plants" initiative involves producing LEGO pieces from plant-based plastic derived from sugarcane, starting with a range of LEGO botanical elements like trees, leaves, and bushes.

Contribution to Sustainability:

LEGO's sustainability efforts are a significant move towards reducing the environmental impact of its toys, serving as a leading example in the toy industry.

Link to Materials

https://www.lego.com/en-ch/aboutus/news/2019/october/lego-plants-made-from-plants?locale=en-ch

Additional Note

By creating plant-based plastic toys, LEGO not only reduces its dependence on fossil fuels but also the awareness and encourages the industry towards more sustainable manufacturing practices.

Reformation RefRecycling Program

Reformation, a Los Angeles-based fashion brand, launched its RefRecycling program to help reduce the impact of clothes on the environment.

Issue Targeted

The problem of clothing waste and the environmental footprint of the fashion industry.

Creative Solution

Through the RefRecycling program, Reformation's marketing strategy encourages customers to send back clothes they no longer want, regardless of the brand. These items are then recycled or upcycled, ensuring they don't end up in landfills.

Contribution to Sustainability

The RefRecycling program has effectively reduced the volume of clothing waste. By offering an easy solution for customers to recycle their unwanted clothes, Reformation contributes to a more sustainable fashion industry.

Link to materials

https://www.thereformation.com/sustainability/ref-recycling.html

Additional Note

Reformation’s RefRecycling campaign is a great example of the brand's commitment to sustainability, demonstrating how fashion companies can take responsibility for the lifecycle of their products.

ECOALF  "Born Again" Sustainability Campaign

Ecoalf, a Spanish clothing company, introduced the "Born Again" initiative as part of its commitment to sustainable fashion.

Issue Targeted

The environmental damage caused by fast fashion and the overuse of natural resources in clothing production.

Creative Solution

The "Born Again" initiative repurposes waste into high-quality recycled fabrics, which are then used to create new clothing and accessories. They utilize materials such as discarded fishing nets, plastic bottles, used tires, and post-industrial cotton.

Contribution to Sustainability

The "Born Again" initiative demonstrates how waste can be a resource, reducing the need for virgin materials. Ecoalf has been able to create a full line of clothing and accessories from recycled materials, paving the way for sustainable practices in the fashion industry.

Link to materials:

https://ecoalf.com/en/pages/historia

Conclusion

The road to a future generations is paved with innovation, creativity, and a deep commitment to making a difference. Each of these case studies brings to life how brands, both big and small, are taking steps towards that future, launching programs and marketing campaigns that are as forward-thinking as they are impactful.

At Bolder, we're passionate about environmental issues and brands that drive meaningful change. We believe in the power of creativity to shape the future, and we're committed to helping our clients create initiatives that not only benefit their business and brand sustainability but also contribute positively to the world.

If you're looking to launch an innovative, forward-thinking program or campaign that aligns with your brand's commitment to sustainability, we'd love to help. Contact us to find out how we can collaborate to bring your vision to life and make a big difference in the environment.