1% for the Planet Passes 1,000 Member Company Mark

Hard hit by the current recession, donor dollars for non-profit causes are falling fast. One bright spot in these grim economic times, and clearly bucking trends, is the significant growth of membership in 1% for the Planet (1%).

Member companies pledge to donate at least 1% of their revenues to non-profit organizations focused on sustainability. “One percent of sales is an extraordinary commitment, and that’s the point”, says CEO Terry Kellogg. “Companies that share this commitment clearly separate themselves from the pack, making it easy for consumers to recognize and support them”.

Since 2007, new member companies have been signing up at a rate of more than one per day. As global financial markets collapsed last October, more companies joined than in any other month of 2008. “Our rate of growth, even in the face of economic calamity, is phenomenal” said Kellogg. “It’s a clear indication to me that consumers and companies alike are seeking a better kind of capitalism”.

In 2002, fwell-known environmentalist and founder of Patagonia), and his fly-fishing companion, Craig Mathews (founder/owner of Blue Ribbon Flies in Montana) launched 1% to encourage more companies to support environmental causes. When asked about reaching the 1,000 company milestone, Chouinard said, “At first I didn’t think we’d ever have 1,000 members. Now it’s clear, we started a revolution that’s only just begun.”

Today, 1% membership includes stalwarts of socially responsible businesses like Patagonia, Clif Bar and New Belgium Brewing, well-known artists like Jackson Browne, Jack Johnson, and Josh Ritter, fashion icons Barneys NY and Loomstate, and hundreds of small companies in 37 countries. A number of large companies also participate at the brand level including, Sony, Diageo, Barneys NY, Volcom, and Billabong. “I am incredibly proud of the diversity that’s reflected in 1% membership” said Kellogg. “We offer a platform that is relevant to any company—no matter their size, industry or geographic location.”

Despite the downturn, several member companies had their best year ever in 2008. One reason for their relative success according to Kellogg is the value of sustainability: “Many members have strong values-oriented brands in a marketplace that increasingly rewards responsible businesses. Participation in 1% is a great way to signal that commitment.” Since overall performance of member companies remains strong, so too does charitable giving from the 1% network. To date it has channeled an estimated $42 million in critically needed funds to more than 1,600 non-profits around the world.

How One Percent Works:
1% for the Planet is an alliance of businesses committed to donating 1% of their sales directly to non-profit organizations focused on sustainability. Members license the 1% trademarked logo for use on product labels and marketing materials. For more information, please visit: www.onepercentfortheplanet.org