Photo: United by Blue
In its fifth year of business, United by Blue set the bar for responsible product. The little company that could recently hit a major milestone: over 200,000 pounds of trash from U.S. waterways… 200,000 POUNDS.
Since its creation in 2010, the brand’s key initiative has been to remove one pound of trash from rivers, creeks, streams, and beaches for every product sold. Accordingly, United by Blue has hosted 118 cleanups in 21 states over the past half-decade. Brian Linton, the company’s founder, advocates a hands-on approach, and cleanups are organized and operated by company employees. Employees work with local volunteer organizations to put on dozens of cleanups across the nation each year, bringing together thousands of people. Built on the initiative to associate product sales with concrete environmental action, United by Blue has redefined what it means to be a sustainable brand.
Photo: United by Blue
United by Blue’s efforts extend beyond its cleanup programs as well. In 2010, United by Blue opened its flagship store and coffeehouse in Philadelphia utilizing all repurposed materials. Additionally, the company produces a complete line of durable adventure essentials: from organic cotton shirts to canvas bags to camping accessories. Inspired by the outdoors and the love of all things water, the company works to ensure that their products simultaneously improve the lives of its customers and the spaces they enjoy. All products are sustainably produced, and United by Blue is a certified B-corp company. This means that United by Blue’s products and production practices meet the non-profit group’s rigorous environmental and social performance standards.
Although United by Blue’s efforts are not vastly different from the “one for one” approach of Toms Shoes and Warby Parker Eyewear, it’s refreshing to see the small company taking a hands on approach. The company’s employee involvement and community engagement are both unparalleled and inspirational, and it’s great to see a fresh young brand making an impact.
Photo: United by Blue
For more information on the initiative as well as upcoming cleanups, be sure to visit UnitedbyBlue.com.
