Business Chief ME+AFRICA Magazine November 2023 | Page 123

PEOPLE & PLANET | GIVING BACK
contributed around US $ 450 million to good causes .
“ Most of the network is made up of small businesses , which goes to show how much 1 % adds up – and the importance of collective action ,” says Kate .
Every 1 % For The Planet member donates 1 % of all sales , not profits , directly to one or more vetted environmental partners . Then , those companies show proof of donation and 1 % For The Planet certifies their giving , providing them access to use the logo to share their commitment . This model allows for meaningful partnerships to be built between businesses and environmental partners .
Although the organisation was founded in the US , 57 % of the 1 % For The Planet network is from outside the US , with Europe being particularly well represented .
“ We are working on expanding our reach every day , and are hoping to significantly increase brand awareness in all regions within the next decade ,” Kate tells Business Chief .
While there are an increasing number of companies in the Middle East and Africa signing up to pledge 1 %, Kate and her team are working hard to encourage more members to join , and ways to make the network more accessible for a diverse range of businesses and environmental partners .
“ The 1 % For The Planet logo holds credibility and recognition around the world , so a large selling point is increased success in the global market ,” says Kate . businesschief . ae 123