Sustainability is a broad topic, and when you’re just getting started, it can be confusing. At its heart is the simple idea of reducing harm to the planet and treating people fairly, but how best to accomplish those goals – while still maintaining a viable business model – is where it gets a little hairier. One thing most experts agree on is the need for transparency and traceability with all sustainability efforts; making claims without being able to back them up is tantamount to greenwashing.

In the latest episode of Promo Insiders, based on a recent webinar, ASI Media’s Theresa Hegel sat down with a handful of experts in the sustainability field to tap their insights on the topic and learn about how an emphasis on sustainability can benefit the promo industry. Joining Theresa were Vik Giri, CEO and founder of Gallant International and sustainable accessories supplier Terra Thread (asi/55681); Lori Wyman, North American representative for the Global Organic Textile Standard (GOTS); and Meg Buckley, development manager for Fairtrade America.

Giri, Wyman and Buckley discuss the dangers of greenwashing, explain how third-party certifications like GOTS and Fairtrade help formalize sustainability efforts and share some of the biggest misconceptions they have to fight against when trying to convince people of the merits of organic, sustainable and fair trade products.

Introducing Promo for the Planet

ASI Media has launched a new resource hub covering all things sustainability. Look for the Promo for the Planet logo on stories, or visit www.asicentral.com/promofortheplanet to stay up to date on all of our sustainability-related content, from case studies to in-depth features to infographics, videos, podcasts and more.