In 2002, Yvon Chouinard and Craig Mathews founded 1% for the Planet with a clear aim: "To increase the effectiveness of associations working for environmental protection by providing them with the necessary funds." The number 1, chosen for its simplicity, is directly linked to the turnover of companies, thus guaranteeing constant and significant support, regardless of fluctuations in profits.
Today, thanks to more than 5200 companies and brands around the world, the collective contributes more than $100 million annually to environmental organizations. However, despite these contributions, environmental causes remain underfunded in France, receiving only 9% of corporate sponsorship funds, an insufficient proportion in the face of current and future challenges.
A simple and effective model
The work of 1% for the Planet involves persuading companies to dedicate 1% of their turnover to environmental philanthropy. Companies can choose different scopes of commitment: the entire company, one or more brands, or even a specific range. To avoid opportunistic use of the logo, an annual minimum of €20,000 is required for commitments via a range.
Whatever the scope chosen, the 1% for the Planet team takes great care to ensure that communication does not exceed the scope of the actual philanthropic commitment.
Facilitating Meetings and Donations
To optimize fund allocation, 1% for the Planet connects businesses and nonprofits through various events such as 1% Cafés, Meetings for the Planet, and the Advent Calendar. These interactions facilitate and accelerate donations, directly increasing the effectiveness of the beneficiary organizations.
The Transparency Guarantee
A key aspect of the 1% for the Planet model is the rigorous verification of commitments. Annually, revenues and donations are analyzed to ensure compliance. Any failure to comply results in the immediate exclusion of the company from the collective. This vigilance distinguishes merely proclaimed philanthropy from truly verified and concrete philanthropy.
A Mutually Enriching Exchange
The committed companies with 1% for the Planet also benefit from their philanthropy. This commitment fosters an alignment between their impact and their philanthropic actions, a point often emphasized by associations. This enriching dialogue is at the heart of the movement's strength. This commitment also allows companies to involve their employees in their philanthropic initiatives.
A Significant Impact
The 1200 French companies involved with 1% for the Planet contribute more than €10 million annually, providing vital support to numerous charities. To ensure complete transparency, the use and distribution of these funds will be detailed in our next activity report, available on our website.
For 20 years, our dedicated team has worked tirelessly to fulfill the mission initiated by Yvon Chouinard and Craig Mathews: to strengthen the impact of environmental associations by providing them with essential resources. We express our gratitude to the 750 accredited associations in France for their tireless commitment to biodiversity, climate, and the ecological and social transition.
Together, let's work for a more sustainable future for our planet! ????