5 Sustainable High-End Brands Making a Global Impact
Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword anymore—it’s a necessity. With the climate crisis knocking louder than ever, brands that prioritise environmental and social responsibility are standing out. From high fashion to travel, media to wellness, these trailblazers are rethinking industry standards and proving that conscious business practices and profit can go hand in hand.
Here are five brands making a meaningful impact worldwide.
1. Stella McCartney: the OG of luxury sustainability
If there's one name synonymous with sustainable fashion, it's Stella McCartney. A pioneer since launching her eponymous brand in 2001, Stella has been banging the sustainability drum long before it was trendy. From vegan leather to regenerative farming practices, her collections prove that sustainability in fashion is a profitable choice.
But here’s the real mic-drop moment: in 2024, Stella McCartney bought back her brand from LVMH. After partnering with the luxury conglomerate for years to drive sustainability within the group, she’s now taken full ownership, signalling a bold new chapter. What does this mean?
Autonomy: Stella can double down on her environmental commitments without the pressures of corporate profitability.
Industry Signal: The buy-back hints at a future where independent, purpose-driven brands lead the luxury conversation.
From biodegradable denim to collaborations with sustainable innovation labs, Stella continues to challenge the status quo. As she said herself, "Luxury fashion has the power to be both beautiful and responsible."
2. Vivienne Westwood: fashion activism
The late, great Dame Vivienne Westwood didn’t just design clothes—she ignited movements. From punk rebellion to eco-activism, Westwood’s ethos was always clear: "Buy less. Choose well. Make it last."
Westwood’s commitment to sustainability was woven into every collection, long before other luxury houses got the memo. The brand now carries her legacy forward with initiatives like:
Ethical sourcing: Organic cotton and mulesing-free wool.
Eco-friendly production: Shifting production to renewable energy-powered facilities.
Activism first: Campaigning tirelessly for climate action, human rights, and anti-consumerism.
Vivienne proved that fashion isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s a platform for change. And her message? Still loud and clear.
3. Patagonia: media with a mission
While Patagonia is known for outdoor gear, it’s also stepping into the media world with Patagonia Films—a powerhouse for environmental storytelling. Patagonia has always been more activist than apparel brand (remember when they gave away their entire $3 billion company to fight climate change?), and their media division continues that legacy.
Their documentaries like Public Trust and Artifishal expose environmental exploitation and inspire grassroots action. Plus, their Patagonia Action Works platform connects customers with local climate groups, proving that a brand can sell jackets and spark revolutions.
Why it matters:
Media influence: Film has the power to change hearts faster than any ad campaign.
Corporate activism: Patagonia shows that profit can fuel purpose, not undermine it.
4. Intrepid Travel: adventures that don’t cost the Earth
The travel industry’s carbon footprint is no joke—but Intrepid Travel is rewriting the script. As the world’s largest travel B Corp, Intrepid is on a mission to make tourism a force for good.
Their approach:
Carbon neutrality: Intrepid became carbon neutral in 2010 and now aims for net zero by 2030.
Local-first philosophy: From hiring local guides to partnering with community-based businesses, they ensure tourism dollars stay where they’re most needed.
Regenerative travel: Moving beyond "less harm" to actively restoring ecosystems.
In an era of climate guilt, Intrepid Travel proves you can see the world and aim to save it.
5. Who Gives A Crap: wellness with a wink
Toilet paper might not scream "sustainability," but Who Gives A Crap is turning this everyday product into a climate-conscious choice. The brand produces 100% recycled or bamboo toilet paper, with 50% of profits going to build toilets in underserved communities.
Since 2013, they've donated over $11 million to sanitation projects. But it’s not just what they do—it’s how they do it:
Eco-friendly materials: No trees harmed in the making of your loo roll.
Playful branding: Their witty, irreverent marketing makes sustainability fun, not preachy.
Global impact: Operating in multiple countries, their reach is as vast as their ambition.
In a wellness industry often obsessed with greenwashing, Who Gives A Crap is refreshingly authentic.
Final Thoughts
These brands aren’t just "going green" for the PR points—they're integrating sustainability into their core business models. And the trends they’re setting are becoming benchmarks for entire industries.
Stella McCartney’s bold move away from LVMH hints at a future where independent brands might lead the luxury sector's eco-shift. Vivienne Westwood’s activist legacy reminds us that fashion can influence cultural and environmental narratives. Meanwhile, Patagonia, Intrepid Travel, and Who Gives A Crap show how media, travel, and wellness brands can tackle climate change while still thriving commercially.
Sustainability isn’t a niche anymore; it’s becoming the new normal. And as conscious consumers, we get to vote with our wallets—supporting the brands that are truly walking the green talk.
