7 Surprisingly Sustainable Companies

Some companies exist to make profits. Other companies exist to help solve a problem. Sustainable companies exist to do both.

When people hear the term "sustainable", they tend to automatically label it as the trend of "going green" . But "sustainable" can mean an array of different things. A sustainable company can be socially sustainable, profitably sustainable or environmentally sustainable.

The following companies are surprising because they are not necessarily known for being sustainable. Customers have and continue to purchase products and services from these companies because they enjoy what they get from them. They do not support these companies on the lone fact that they are sustainable, but just because they are strong companies to begin with.

The subsequent corporations are a diverse group of companies that have a surprisingly strong sustainability strategies.

1. Nike: Although Nike has some negative history associated with sweatshops in the 1990's, Nike has changed its way of doing things. Known for its innovative and bright athletic apparel and shoes, sustainability does not come to mind to many consumers. But the CEO of Nike, Mark Parker, says, "Sustainability is our generation's defining issue." Nike has recharged its standards by creating several innovative programs and using green technology. Some examples include a program called Considered Design to reduce waste from designers, building tracks with worn-out shoe rubber, creating a basketball shoe made with complete waste and partnering with social companies to give hope to people in third world countries.
2. Patagonia: Famous for their outdoor apparel and gear, Patagonia has based its standards and advocacy on environmentalism. Patagonia utilizes innovative green technology for manufacturing apparel, monitors waste closely and donates a portion of profits to grassroots groups working to make an environmental difference. Additionally, Patagonia prides itself on treating employees with dignity and respect. With the "let my people go surfing" motto, employees are encouraged to take the day off when surf's up.
3. Walmart: Walmart is known for being a national superstore with low prices, but very few recognize that Walmart is one of the most efficient and sustainable stores too. Walmart has found opportunities in making the operating chain more economically friendly. Changing the lighting in the stores, keeping manufacturing in one or two countries to reduce shipping cost and creating standards for companies they work with not only saves money but helps the environment too. Jib Ellison, a consultant who helped Walmart with its strategy commented that "Sustainability represents the biggest business opportunity of the 21st century."
4. Southwest Airlines: Known as one of the most efficient, low-cost airlines in the world, Southwest Airlines strives to do more. Being the front leader in the industry, Southwest Airlines is working on emission reduction in fuel efficiency. The Next Generation Boeing aircrafts are equipped with winglets, saving 2.5% on fuel consumption. Southwest has created a systematic engine wash that recycles the water to be used for the next wash, which also increases engine efficiency and reduces carbon emissions.
5. Herman Miller: Herman Miller furniture designs award-winning furnishings that not only cater to businesses and individuals but also to the environment. With the goal for the company to rely solely on "green energy" by 2020, Herman Miller has set many ambitious goals to help save the environment which is called the "Perfect Vision". By creating programs such as the rePurpose program, Herman Miller donates used furniture to nonprofits around the country. In addition, the company builds furniture with "green" materials in LEED certified buildings.
6. Newman's Own: Founded by actor Paul Newman, Newman's Own produces fine food products such as salad dressing and salsa. Many who purchase these gourmet goods do not quite realize the cause they are serving. After taxes, the profits of Newman's Own are donated to various charities. To this date, over $300 million has been given to charities since 1982.
7. L.L. Bean, Inc.: Conservation and sustainability are the decision determents to this Maine-based shoe and apparel company. The company trucks use biodiesel fuel (made of vegetable oil and animal fat) and ten of L.L. Bean's retail stores are located in LEED certified buildings. Shipping boxes, gift boxes and tissue paper are made from 100% recyclable materials. L.L. Bean also participates in Environmental Charitable Giving, energy conservation, paper and sustainable forest management and many more environmental initiatives.

These seven companies demonstrate the ability to be sustainable while making profits. They do not sell their products because of their mission, but they are able to contend with their mission because of their success. Are you surprised by the sustainability these seven companies encompass?