Unlocking a Sustainable Future: The Power of SDGs and Responsible Brands
So it’s possible you’ve never heard of the Sustainable Development Goals or SDGs - while they are big news in international development, sustainability and big business, they may have slipped under the radar for most people not working in those spaces.
In a world teeming with challenges, from climate change to social inequality, the SDGs emerge as beacons of hope, guiding us towards a more sustainable and equitable future. Crafted by the United Nations in 2015, these 17 ambitious goals aim to address the world's most pressing issues by 2030. Yet, the journey to achieving these goals is not a solitary one,it requires the collective effort of governments, individuals, and notably, the corporate sector. Brands across the globe are stepping up, weaving sustainability into their DNA, and proving that business success can go hand in hand with making a positive impact on people and the planet..
One of the most beautiful parts of the SDGs is the economic opportunity afforded by conservation - by changing the lens on value its not about social or economic development but development that is sustainable - not just from an environmental perspective. THe economic opportunity globally from focusing on SDGs is estimated to be $12 Trillion USD per year.
The 17 SDGs
Image of the 17 SDGs from the UN
Why should we care about the SDGs?
The simple answer is that they encapsulate the most critical challenges and aspirations of our time, from eradicating poverty to protecting our oceans. They offer a shared blueprint for peace and prosperity, not just for the present, but for future generations. By supporting and aligning with these goals, we contribute to a movement that transcends borders and cultures, uniting us in our common humanity and our shared responsibility towards this planet. These are big, hard, hairy problems requiring radical solutions.
Among the myriad of brands championing the SDGs, a few stand out for their commitment and innovation.
Patagonia, the outdoor clothing company, is renowned for its environmental activism, focusing on responsible consumption and production (SDG 12) by creating durable products and encouraging repair and recycling.
Ben & Jerry's, beyond being famous for its delectable ice creams, passionately advocates for social justice and environmental sustainability, aligning with several SDGs including climate action (SDG 13) and reduced inequalities (SDG 10).
Image of the 17 colour wheel representing the SDGs
These brands, among others, are not just selling products; they are selling a vision of a better world. In order to get there they have reimagined their supply chain, thought about how their business intersects with society and remain laser focused on their customers as a priority alongside the environment and society. A lot of the time they are BCorps and that movement is very much aligned to the SDGs.
About BCorp
B Corporations (BCorps) are businesses committed to using business as a force for good. They work to reduce inequality and create a healthier environment and stronger communities. B stands for ‘Better’.
The BCorp mission is to create a world where businesses work for the planet and the people who live in it. If you look out for the B in a circle symbol, you’ll start seeing it on brands who care about their impact.
All of those values tie back to the SDGs in very tangible ways and give you a sense that it isn’t just enough to say you’re doing better but holding you accountable to that.
How rePlated applies the SDGs
rePlated, is committed to reducing waste and promoting sustainable food consumption and aligns closely with two pivotal SDGs: Responsible Consumption and Production (SDG 11) and Life Below Water (SDG 14). By offering sustainable alternatives for food packaging, rePlated not only tackles the issue of single-use plastics but also contributes to protecting our oceans from pollution, safeguarding marine life, and promoting a circular economy.
The connection between rePlated's mission and these SDGs illustrates the profound impact that conscious consumer choices and innovative business models can have on achieving global sustainability targets. It's a testament to the power of combining entrepreneurial spirit with a commitment to the greater good, showcasing how businesses can be a force for positive change.
As we navigate the complexities of the 21st century, the SDGs serve as a compass, guiding our collective efforts towards a more sustainable and just world. Business has a role to play, but the path to achieving these goals also relies on individual actions. By supporting responsible brands, making sustainable choices in our daily lives, and advocating for policies that promote sustainability, each of us can contribute to the monumental task of transforming our world.
The SDGs show us how a sustainable future is possible
In essence, the SDGs are not just lofty aspirations; they are a call to action, a reminder that a sustainable future is possible if we work together. The involvement of brands in this mission brings a new dimension to the corporate world, proving that profitability and sustainability can coexist. As consumers, our choices have power. By choosing brands that support the SDGs, we not only contribute to their success but also take a step towards the world we all aspire to live in, a world where no one is left behind and our planet is not being destroyed for financial gain.