Living in an age where energy consumption is through the roof, living a sustainable life is especially important. A complete change of lifestyle is very difficult; an easier way is to support pro-environment companies. There are many green companies out there, ranging from Seventh Generation, a company selling household items, to Patagonia, an apparel company. These brands should definitely be supported because of their push for a more sustainable future. Here are a few companies that offer great goods with little environmental impact.

Patagonia is a company that produces equipment and clothing using materials that are “environmentally preferred”, meaning that they are organic, recycled, or unimpactful to the environment. This brand’s pro-environment legacy dates back to the early 1970s, urging climbers to use nuts and runners, as opposed to pitons, which damage rock. Additionally, Patagonia supports environmental protection groups by donating 1% of its profits. The company also provides up to two months of vacation with pay for employees volunteering for environmental organizations. Along with other environmental initiatives, Patagonia has a program dedicated to buying merino wool from South American farmers, who use environmentally wise grazing practices.

A supplier of energy bars and other snacks, Clif Bar & Company works to reduce its environmental footprint from production, to the final product. Their food undergoes a sustainable process before being sold to consumers. First, organic and sustainable ingredients are used to make their snacks. Then, the snacks are baked with clean and renewable energy, and packaged in environmentally friendly packaging. Lastly, the snacks are shipped to markets using non-polluting ways of transportation. Providing energy for their customers, Clif Bar & Company do so in a sustainable way.

Many believe that pets are just as significant as any other family member. West Paw Design (WPD), a Montana-based company, revolves their products around that belief. In addition to providing the high-quality products, WPD uses green methods to produce pet beds and toys. Through their “Join the Loop” program, WPD is able to infinitely recycle their toys. Furthermore, this pet-based company uses a recycled plastic called IntelliLoft to fill their products. WPD also reduces its amount of waste by using banana boxes to store their items, keeping them out of landfills and eliminating the need to buy plastic totes.

These are just a few companies that offer environmentally friendly products. As these brands do their part in leading the way to a more sustainable consumer society, people should follow this path and support these businesses. Next time you buy a shirt or a snack, stop and think if there is a more sustainable option.