In honor of Black History Month, I’ve put together a shortlist of five black-owned businesses that are dedicated to sustainability. You’ve heard it before, but where you invest your money really does matter. Not only do we need to put an effort into supporting small businesses, but we also need to be seeking out those that are owned by minority groups.
To enact real change, we need to not only take time for self-reflection, but we need to actively support the black community.
In today’s blog, I really wanted to emphasize black-owned businesses that are implementing sustainable practices within their operations because climate change disproportionately affects black communities.
Black communities are more vulnerable to severe weather and floods, air pollution, and heat-waves. This is due to geographic location, proximity power plants and factories, and lack of tree cover and heat-trapping pavement.
Supporting black communities will help reduce the inequities gap, and supporting sustainability will help reduce the effects that these communities are disproportionately experiencing.
The businesses I chose to include showcase the creativity, innovation, and sense of responsibility the black community has to offer and has me really excited to continue finding more gems in this journey.
Okay, let’s dive into the list.
1. Aya Paper Co.
Imagine with me for a second. It’s your birthday. You get dozens of texts and posts on your social media wishing you a happy birthday. This brings a small smile to your face as you go to grab your mail. You see a handwritten envelope with your name on it and proceed to tear it open. It’s a birthday card.
Which one brings more joy? The texts/posts or the handwritten card? In an increasingly virtual world, the need to make physical connections is more important than ever. Writing a personal note to someone is a great way to bring joy into their life, promote mindfulness, and generate self-reflection.
Aya Paper Co. is a black, woman-owned stationery brand that creates greeting cards and gifts to celebrate the people and moments that matter the most.
The company uses neutral earth tones, minimalist illustrations, and modern typography, all on 100% recycled material. Founder and creative director, SaVonne Anderson, wanted to ensure she wasn’t perpetuating climate change and pollution, which disproportionately affect communities of color.
In addition to the cards, Aya Paper Co. offers journals, calendars (my favorite) and so much more.
There are so many people in your life that need more personal connection right now. Go the extra mile and make someone’s day while supporting a great business.
2. Blk & Bold
Who doesn’t love coffee? I don’t know about you, but my caffeine intake has definitely increased with being home most of the day. I run through coffee like crazy.
P.s. if you aren’t a coffee drinker, I’ve got you covered with the 5th spot on my list.
It can be easy to just grab a bag at the grocery store (probably not too tasty), but you know what else is easy? Coffee subscriptions!
Blk & Bold has you covered. The specialty roaster is a black-owned, certified B Corporation with a desire to make purpose popular. Blk & Bold pledges 5% of its profits to sustainability initiatives including urban farming, conservation, workforce development, and eradicating youth homelessness.
You’re drinking coffee anyway, why not put your money in a black-owned business that gives back to its community.
Still not convinced? Blk & Bold is offering 15% off your first purchase! What are you waiting for?
Is 4 cups of coffee a day too much? Asking for a friend.
3. EcoVibe
2020 was the year that a lot of us became plant parents. Whether it’s to enhance the esthetic of your space, boost your mood, reduce stress, or eliminate air pollutants, plants are an easy way to improve your daily life.
EcoVibe, a black-owned Portland-based lifestyle brand, sells apparel, home goods, and yes, plants. The name “EcoVibe” was birthed from, Eco: Focusing on the environment and sustainable, ethical practices and Vibe: The feeling, the style, the look, the energy, and the experience.
Take a minute to visit their website and you will see this vision in action (and probably buy a plant).
In addition to offering some really tempting plant options (I might pull the trigger), EcoVibe donates 1% of all online sales to local non-profit 1% For The Planet members to ensure that they are always giving back to environmental causes.
And no matter what anyone tells you, it’s never too early (or late) to become a plant parent!
4. Day FiftyOne
I think we can all agree that thrifting is a great way to both support sustainability and small business. Day FiftyOne takes it one step further. The vintage shop is black-owned and showcases some of the most creative pieces I have seen.
Day FiftyOne has a huge selection of clothing and accessories and even their own collection of upcycled, vintage, and pre-loved options curated by the owner.
Thrifting offers benefits towards reducing waste, its environmental impact, and local economic stimulation. We can all make a conscious effort to ensure the black community receives that support as well.
So, if you’re looking to level-up your style game, or give a showstopping gift, check out Day FiftyOne.
5. Ivy’s Tea Co.
Hello, my non-coffee drinkers! Or if you just have a love of all things tea, Ivy’s Tea Co. is the place for you.
Teas provide numerous health benefits that boost your immune system, fight off inflammation, and even help prevent cancer and heart disease. And if you “aren’t a fan of the taste,” give another one a try! There are endless different flavors and combinations to try.
The team at Ivy’s Tea Co. handmakes all of their teas. Yes, you read that right, no sourcing whatsoever is done, so you know you are getting one-of-a-kind teas that are fresh, nutritious, and tasty.
Through Ivy’s Tea Co., the owner, Shanae, hopes to change the way people see tea drinkers and introduce more African holistic health remedies into the holistic health industry. The goal is to make the industry as inclusive and reflective and accepting of all cultures as Hip-Hop.
Let’s face it, the health beverage industry is whitewashed. It should reflect all cultures and all people. Ivy’s Tea Co. is making big strides towards turning this into reality.
Still need convincing? Subscribe and get 10%!
Hopefully, this list offers you a little hope and inspiration. Sustainability should not feel overwhelming. Even making small changes to your daily routines can have a huge impact. So, choose whichever tips work for you and start there!
See you next time.
Comentarios