08:00, 01 July 2025
Words by Cheyanne Bryan, Editorial and Campaign Marketing Executive, London
During London Climate Action Week this year, we had the amazing opportunity of being at the Blue Earth Forum, an event that allows investors to connect with startups all presenting sustainable businesses.
With the event populated with talks, panel discussions and stalls of amazing solution focused businesses, we were able to hear from Kate Williams, CEO of 1% for the Planet.
For those who are new to sustainable certifications, 1% for the Planet is a global movement that empowers businesses and individuals to make a tangible difference in the fight against environmental degradation.
Since their founding in 2002, the organisation has encouraged its members to pledge 1% of annual sales to environmental causes. The mission is simple yet powerful: to connect businesses with vetted non-profits that are actively working to protect our planet's future.
During her talk, Kate shared that the UK is the 3rd biggest market with around 43% of consumers recognising the 1% for the planet logo and showed intent with their purchases.
Since they have started this work, the organisation has totaled $750 million in donations to environmental causes and has set the ambitious goal of trying to reach $1 billion by 2027 for their 25th anniversary.
Kate says: “Businesses doing it alone is insufficient, we need to come together!”
To hear more from Kate, watch our exclusive interview with her below:
At this point you’re probably wondering which brands are members of 1% for the planet. Don’t worry, here is a short list of some UK-based companies that have joined to make a difference.
At Smiley Movement, we like to elevate the work of charities across the world. Here are three charities whose causes align with the themes in this article.
Friends of the Earth. This environmental charity campaigns on issues such as climate change, plastic pollution, and sustainability, working towards a more eco-friendly world. Find out more.
The Wildlife Trusts. This is a network of 46 local wildlife charities across the UK focused on protecting natural habitats and wildlife, promoting conservation efforts and sustainable land use practices. Learn more here.
City to Sea. This is a Bristol-based charity focused on reducing plastic pollution at source, promoting waste reduction, and encouraging people to adopt sustainable practices to protect rivers, oceans, and wildlife. Support them here.
This article aligns with the UN Climate Action, Partnerships for the Goals.