The Power of 1% for the Planet

The Power of 1% for the Planet

How a growing global pledge is helping fund projects like urban farming, reforestation, and ocean cleanup

Around the world, businesses are using their profits to invest directly in the health of our planet.

One of the most influential ways they’re doing this is through 1% for the Planet, a movement where companies commit at least one percent of their annual revenue to environmental causes.

It’s a simple idea with far-reaching results: thousands of businesses pledging a slice of their turnover to fund vetted, credible projects tackling our biggest environmental challenges.

What is 1% for the Planet?

Founded in 2002 by Yvon Chouinard, founder of Patagonia, and Craig Mathews of Blue Ribbon Flies, 1% for the Planet was born from a straightforward belief: companies that profit from the planet’s resources should help protect them.

Today, the network includes thousands of businesses and individuals in more than 60 countries.

Together, they have directed hundreds of millions of dollars toward environmental nonprofits working on issues like climate change, biodiversity loss, ocean health, and sustainable agriculture.

How the Model Works

The commitment is built into the business model: members pledge to donate at least one percent of annual sales — not profits — to approved environmental partners.

This is key, because it ensures contributions happen whether or not the business has a “good year.”

All donations are verified by 1% for the Planet.

Members choose from a vetted list of nonprofit partners, ensuring funds go to organizations with proven impact.

Who Benefits from 1% for the Planet?

The movement supports a diverse range of environmental initiatives worldwide.

Beneficiaries include reforestation projects, plastic removal efforts, renewable energy programs, wildlife conservation groups — and innovative food system solutions like urban farming.

Farm Urban is one such beneficiary.

Through their vertical farming projects in the UK, they grow fresh produce right in the city, reducing food miles, cutting emissions, and increasing access to healthy food.

Funding from 1% for the Planet members helps support this work alongside many other local and global environmental initiatives.

Why It Matters

1% for the Planet channels corporate giving into tangible, on-the-ground action.

For consumers, it means that buying from a 1% member brand contributes to a healthier planet.

For environmental nonprofits, it provides a consistent funding stream they can rely on.

This combination of predictable funding, verified giving, and global reach makes the movement a powerful tool in scaling environmental solutions.

1% for the Planet proves that even small percentages can add up to massive change when businesses work together.

Whether it’s planting trees, cleaning oceans, restoring habitats, or growing food sustainably in cities, the movement helps direct resources to where they’re needed most.

Every time a 1% member business makes a sale, the planet gets a share.

And whether those funds support an ocean cleanup thousands of miles away or a vertical farm in the middle of a city, the result is the same — environmental action with lasting impact.

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