In 2002, Yvon Chouinard and Craig Mathews founded 1% for the Planet with a clear purpose: “Enhance the effectiveness of environmental organizations by providing them with the necessary funds.” The number 1, chosen for its simplicity, is directly tied to the companies’ revenue, ensuring consistent and significant support, regardless of profit fluctuations.

Today, thanks to over 5,200 businesses and brands worldwide, the collective enables more than $100 million to be donated annually to environmental organizations. However, despite these contributions, environmental causes remain underfunded in France, receiving only 9% of corporate philanthropy funds—a proportion insufficient to meet current and future challenges.

A Simple and Effective Model

1% for the Planet’s work involves persuading businesses to dedicate 1% of their revenue to environmental philanthropy. Companies can choose different scopes of engagement: the entire business, one or more brands, or even a specific product line. To prevent opportunistic use of the logo, a minimum annual contribution of €20,000 is required for commitments via a product line.

Regardless of the chosen scope, the 1% for the Planet team ensures that communication does not exceed the actual philanthropic commitment.

Facilitating Connections and Donations

To optimize fund allocation, 1% for the Planet connects businesses and nonprofits through various events like 1% Cafés, Planet Meetings, and the Advent Calendar. These interactions facilitate and accelerate donations, directly increasing the effectiveness of beneficiary organizations.

Guaranteeing Transparency

A key aspect of the 1% for the Planet model is the rigorous verification of commitment compliance. Annually, revenue and donations are analyzed to ensure conformity. Any breach results in the immediate exclusion of the company from the collective. This vigilance distinguishes mere proclaimed philanthropy from genuinely verified and concrete giving.

A Mutually Enriching Exchange

Businesses engaged with 1% for the Planet also benefit from their philanthropy. This commitment fosters alignment between their impact and philanthropic actions, often reinforced by nonprofits. This enriching dialogue is at the heart of the movement’s strength. It also allows companies to involve their employees in their philanthropic initiatives.

A Significant Impact

The 1,200 French companies involved with 1% for the Planet contribute over €10 million annually—a vital support for many organizations. To ensure complete transparency, the use and distribution of these funds will be detailed in our upcoming annual 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 organizations by providing them with essential resources. We express our gratitude to the 750 accredited nonprofits in France for their tireless commitment to biodiversity, climate, and the ecological and social transition.

Together, let’s work towards a more sustainable future for our planet! 🌱