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Welcome back.
A little something different today, because it’s summer, and because back-to-school sales are already here, and because we get a lot of requests for sustainable product recommendations.
And you know we are all about Action Steps, from the individual to the systemic, so — despite the huge caveat that issues at the systemic level make it really hard to find products that are perfectly sustainable — we’ve put together this list, which is a mix of products we like and stand behind, and tips for finding products that aren’t fucking everything up.
I hope you find it useful.
I’m Quinn Emmett, and this is science for people who give a shit.
Every week, I help 42,276 humans understand and unfuck the rapidly changing world around us. It feels great, and we’d love for you to join us.
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The Good Shit List
First of all, it needs to be said:
The best thing you can do for the planet is just buy less shit.
Especially less new shit.
That being said, of course we all need to buy things, even things that go beyond filling our basic needs, and who am I to deny you the dopamine hit of waiting for a package to arrive (although have you ever tried spending 2 hours filling your online shopping basket with 95 things, then promptly exiting your browser before checking out? What a high.)
Anyways, before we really get into it, here are some best practices when it comes to buying stuff:
What To Consider
1. Used > recycled > new
2. Natural fabrics (cotton, linen, wool) > synthetic (polyester)
3. Minimal packaging > plastic
4. Low/no emissions > offsets (not real! so fun)
5. Shop local if you can
Unfortunately, there isn't a one-stop shop or certification that is reliable for all types of products (yet - although using the 1% for the Planet directory is a good place to start).
So, we’ve broken our recommendation down into different categories below.
Here is the criteria products must meet to be included in this list:
The product or company must be something people actually need, based on evidence-based results (or reputable policies, endorsements, certifications, reviews) that this product improves outcomes for problems that fall under INI’s scope of coverage (climate, health, food, water, tech, etc.).
The product or company must be measurably and sustainably made. For example, the product should minimize waste — especially plastic waste — as much as possible, and even work towards a circular economy where possible. Supply chains should be made as transparent as possible.
The company should have worthwhile social and governance policies (in other words, not be assholes). For example, there should be evidence they pay their workers fairly, and aren’t participating in greenwashing or partnering with other companies/bad actors that do not meet the above criteria.
One last thing —
This is not an exhaustive list! If you have any favorite sustainable products or recommendations, reply to this email or drop a comment below! We will do our best to vet your suggestions and keep the list updated.
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