Why You Should Shop Sustainably

Every year on April 22nd, people all over the United States come together to raise awareness about environmental issues and celebrate our planet on Earth Day. As we begin to see more and more devastating effects of global warming, taking action against climate change is more important than ever. Your individual carbon footprint might seem insignificant compared to the magnitude of our current environmental emergency, but small changes in your everyday choices can lead to collective action, which does make a difference. 

What is a carbon footprint?

A carbon footprint is the total emission volume of greenhouse gases that are generated by our actions. Your carbon footprint includes emissions from the food you eat, the products you buy, the trash you create, the car you drive, and more. The larger your carbon footprint is, the heavier the strain on the environment.

What is sustainable shopping?

Sustainable shopping is making conscious and informed choices when purchasing goods and services. Being mindful about the way you shop, such as purchasing from brands that use sustainable practices and buying long-lasting items made from high-quality materials, can go a long way in reducing your personal carbon footprint.

What are the benefits of sustainable shopping?

Sustainable shopping has many benefits for the planet and you, including:

• It reduces waste. The waste sector is responsible for about 20% of human-driven methane emissions globally, and methane accounts for nearly half of the 1 degree Celsius of warming our planet has experienced. Brands with sustainable practices reduce waste and promote a circular economy. Reducing waste is one of the most important ways we can slow the pace of global warming.

• It can be cheaper in the long run. Although higher quality items are typically more expensive than cheaply-made counterparts, they are often far more durable. Cheaper products may break down more quickly and need to be replaced sooner, which is harder on your wallet in the end. High-quality, responsibly-made goods last longer and can be sold or passed down when you no longer have use for them.

• It’s healthier for you. Brands that prioritize sustainability typically avoid the use of toxic materials and chemicals, which are dangerous for human health and the environment. Toxic chemicals can be cheaper to produce and use, which is why so many companies use them in their products. Look for products that bear an OEKO-TEX Standard 100 label, which certifies them free of these known toxic chemicals.

How are Toki Kids products sustainable?

Toki Kids has been rated in the top 10% of brands for sustainability by Sustainability Jungle. This score has classified us as Disrupting within the Kids Toys and Products category—Sustainability Jungle’s highest rating possible. 

Our materials are sourced responsibly, our products are produced in factories with respected ethical and environmental standards, and we have extensive safety certifications that guarantee that our products are as organic and non-toxic as we claim. 

Here are all the ways we’re committed to sustainability:

• Reducing waste. The waste that is generated during our production process is strictly tracked and managed by our suppliers in order to meet the standards for our third party certifications. Beginning with the design of our products, through the manufacturing process, all the way to packing and shipping, we minimize waste every step of the way.

• Saving energy: Not only do our suppliers use solar panels in their facilities and employ energy-efficient practices throughout their operations, but our production schedules are also optimized to run high-energy-demand processes during off-peak hours.

• Protecting biodiversity: We are currently in the early stages of assessing our supply chain's impact on biodiversity and deforestation, and a portion of all our proceeds goes toward rainforest conservation through One Tribe.

• Creating workplace sustainability: We are committed to fostering a supportive and equitable workplace for our direct employees, as well as the workers in our supply chain, through flexible working arrangements, fair compensation, and opportunities for growth and development.