Is Allbirds a Sustainable Company?
Allbirds shoes and apparel provide a sustainable alternative to everyday clothing, but can they withstand our test? Find out.
Founded in 2016, Allbirds Inc. is a New Zealand and American company selling footwear and apparel solely focused on sustainability. The company has garnered acclaim for its commitment to reducing carbon emissions and pioneering the use of natural materials in footwear and clothing. Allbirds stand out against other brands, reshaping industry norms and setting new standards for sustainable practices.
What is Allbirds?
Allbirds stands out as a paradigm shift in the fashion industry. The brand was founded with a clear mission: to create comfortable, stylish footwear and apparel using sustainable materials and processes. Unlike conventional fashion brands that rely heavily on fossil fuels and synthetic materials, Allbirds uses renewable resources and promotes ethical manufacturing practices.
What environmental issues does Allbirds solve?
Allbirds confronts several pressing environmental challenges:
Carbon Footprint Reduction:
Allbirds's commitment to reducing carbon emissions is prevalent in Flight Plan. They aim to achieve carbon neutrality by 2025 and carbon negativity by 2030 by ensuring that every production stage, from sourcing materials to manufacturing and distribution, is sustainable.
Sustainable Material Sourcing:
Central to Allbirds' sustainability ethos is using natural materials sourced through sustainable practices. This includes merino wool from New Zealand, eucalyptus fibers, and sugarcane-derived materials. Unlike most fast fashion brands, choosing these alternatives reduces reliance on fossil fuels, promotes biodiversity, and supports ethical farming communities.
Use of sustainably sourced ingredients:
By selecting raw materials, they ensure minimal environmental impact and maximum sustainability. For instance, merino wool is chosen for its breathability, moisture-wicking properties, and ability to regulate temperature—all while being sourced from sheep raised on regenerative farms committed to land stewardship. Similarly, eucalyptus fibers are harvested from sustainably managed forests, minimizing deforestation and preserving ecosystem health.
Does Allbirds' goods serve human or planetary needs?
Human Needs:
Shoes and clothing are human needs for safety, comfort, and survival. However, with 30 billion shoes thrown away each year, we need a more sustainable solution to reduce the impact this inherent need has. Because of this, Allbirds serves an inarguable human need that needs to be fulfilled in one way or another. Allbirds fulfills this need by providing sustainable alternatives and enforcing an economy that doesn't harm the environment.
Planetary Needs:
Beyond meeting consumer demands, Allbirds addresses critical planetary needs by mitigating environmental impact across its supply chain. By reducing carbon emissions, promoting sustainable agriculture, and fostering circular economy practices, Allbirds preserves natural resources and combats climate change with every product sold.
What happens to an Allbirds product at the end of its life? Can it be integrated into a circular economy?
Allbirds products are designed to be sustainable throughout their lifecycle. Materials such as merino wool and eucalyptus fibers are biodegradable and compostable, ensuring they can return safely to the environment without causing harm. For other materials, such as recycled plastics used in shoe soles, Allbirds emphasizes recyclability, encouraging consumers to return used products for repurposing or recycling through their ReRun program.
Is Allbirds a sustainable company I can trust?
Allbirds has earned trust and recognition for its unwavering commitment to sustainability:
Transparency and Accountability:
We found Allbirds to be genuinely transparent by openly sharing its sustainability goals, progress, and challenges, providing detailed carbon footprint information for each product, and engaging in initiatives that promote environmental stewardship.
Innovation and Impact:
From launching the world's first carbon-negative green EVA midsole made from sugarcane (SweetFoam®) to introducing natural odor-reducing materials derived from discarded snow crab shells (TrinoXO™), Allbirds continues to innovate and set a new standard for companies that claim to be sustainable.
Here are other reasons why we are vetting Allbirds as a sustainable company:
Certifications and Recognition: Allbirds is a certified B Corporation, demonstrating its commitment to meeting rigorous standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency. Additionally, they received accolades and awards for their sustainable innovations and contributions to the fashion industry.
Community and Global Impact: Beyond product development, Allbirds actively engages its customers in sustainability efforts through educational campaigns and partnerships.
Overall, Allbirds inspires a collective mindset towards more sustainable consumption habits by raising awareness and inspiring action.
Choosing Allbirds signifies a commitment to sustainability and responsible consumption. By supporting Allbirds, you can contribute to global efforts to combat climate change, protect natural ecosystems, and promote ethical manufacturing practices in the fashion industry.
To explore Allbirds' sustainable sourcing practices and explore their eco-friendly products, visit our sustainable marketplace.
Key Takeaways:
Allbirds leads with a mission to reverse climate change through innovative, sustainable business practices.
The brand's commitment to regenerative agriculture, renewable materials, and circular economy principles sets a benchmark for sustainable fashion brands worldwide.
Supporting Allbirds means investing in a future where fashion industry practices prioritize environmental preservation and ethical standards.
We Need Your Help
We are dedicated to building a thriving economy that safeguards the Earth. Your support is crucial in achieving this goal. By choosing sustainable businesses like Allbirds, you contribute to a future where people and nature thrive together. Every contribution, no matter how small, has a lasting impact. Join us in shaping a sustainable economy that prioritizes environmental preservation. Click here to learn more about our mission.
Explore Allbirds on our sustainable marketplace.