Fairware Paves the Way in Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability with Their 2022 Impact Report
In a business landscape increasingly focused on sustainability, we’ve taken a giant leap forward by releasing our inaugural Sustainability/Impact Report. This document is not merely a milestone for our company but a benchmark for the promotional products industry, redefining what it means to be a leader in corporate responsibility in our space.
A Journey Towards Sustainability and Branded Merch
Our path has been defined by vision, commitment, and continuous improvement. From our inception in our co-founder’s garage in 2005 to becoming a change-making force in the industry, our mission has been clear – to use our business as a force for good in the world of branded merch. Our Impact Report is a testament to this journey, showcasing our actions and dedication to corporate responsibility, ethical sourcing, and sustainable practices.
Setting a New Standard for Positive Impact in the Promotional Products Industry
The Fairware Impact Report is a blueprint for the future of business, a roadmap for doing well by doing good. In a world where consumers and businesses are increasingly mindful of their ecological and social footprints, our report emerges as a testament to the benefits of ethical business practices and a roadmap for others to follow.
Fairware’s Impact Agenda: Charting the Course for a Better World
Central to our report is the Fairware Impact Agenda, an ambitious framework encompassing five areas: Responsible Sourcing, Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI), Community Impact, Advocacy, and Environmental Responsibility.
1. Responsible Sourcing
Worker Well-being & Sustainable Materials. Our supplier assessment process, established in 2005, rigorously vets suppliers against worker rights and environmental standards outlined in our Code of Conduct (COC). We prioritize suppliers dedicated to enhancing their operational and supply chain practices, engaging in worker rights programs, and reducing environmental impacts. We also seek those using certified environmentally preferred materials and support diverse ownership structures. We’ve taken action by formalizing the onboarding of impact-focused suppliers, revising our COC and Supplier Assessment Questionnaire, and diligently tracking supply chain spending across multiple categories.
2. Justice, Diversity, Equity & Inclusion
Anti-Racism & Equitable Opportunities. Fairware prioritizes grassroots change, empowering our team to combat bias and racism. We focus on Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) to impact every aspect of our company. We’re committed to accountability, fostering diversity, inclusive hiring, supporting financial wellness, and promoting inclusion.
3. Community Impact
Volunteer Engagement and Corporate Citizenship. Our community impact efforts are rooted in our local, industry, and B Corp communities. Over the years, we’ve supported causes by donating merchandise and volunteering. Our commitment to organizations like the Vancouver Street Soccer League reflects our values. We believe in addressing systemic issues at their core and advocating for change. This year, we’re formalizing our approach and tracking actions to ensure our community impact aligns with our values.
4. Advocacy
Industry Influence & Social/Environmental Issues. We prioritize activism and recognize our role in influencing change. We engage in advocacy efforts, from supporting climate action to signing petitions. Notably, we joined Clean Creatives to refuse contracts with fossil fuel companies and related entities, aligning with our values.
5. Environmental Responsibility
Climate Impact & Zero Waste Goals. In managing our environmental footprint, we prioritize reducing impacts across operations, guided by policies. Addressing climate change, we’ve measured greenhouse gas emissions for over fifteen years and are on route to being net zero by 2040. We also support local initiatives like veritree’s #HelptheKelp, planting kelp for every order through veritree to combat kelp forest decline and mitigate climate change. Our certifications include being a founding Canadian B Corp and achieving a Silver rating on EcoVadis, reflecting our commitment to sustainability.
The Way Forward to Corporate Responsibility
Our report showcases how commitment, transparency, and accountability are crucial to driving sustainability and impact into your day-to-day business operations.
This report is a milestone in our journey, a means to consolidate our efforts and goals, and a conversation starter within our organization and beyond. This report is how we hold ourselves accountable and inspire others to join us on this journey towards a more sustainable and equitable world.
We are not just a promotional products company; we are a team of changemakers committed to making merchandise matter.
As we celebrate this milestone, we eagerly look forward to the continued conversation and progress it will spark, both within Fairware and the broader industry. See our full report for 2022:
