Have you ever sat and wondered what it is that really makes a brand ethical?!  

Well in short, an ethical brand operates in a responsible and sustainable manner, taking into account the impact of its business practices on society and the environment. There are a few key principles that define an ethical brand, including transparency, fairness, and accountability.

Transparency is an important principle of an ethical brand, as it means that the company is open and honest about its business practices and the impact it has on society and the environment. This includes being upfront about the materials and methods used to produce products, as well as the conditions under which they are made. Ethical brands should also be transparent about their supply chain and the treatment of workers, and should be willing to share information about their environmental impact. Just remember, that being a transparent brand, doesn’t necessarily mean you are entirely ethical!

Fairness is another key principle of an ethical brand. Meaning that the company operates in a way that is fair to all stakeholders; including workers, customers, and most importantly, the environment. This includes paying fair wages to workers, sourcing materials from suppliers that meet fair trade standards, and ensuring that products are safe and free from harmful chemicals. Ethical brands should also be committed to ensuring that their products and services are accessible to all people, regardless of their socioeconomic status.

The third most important principle when discussing ethics in a brand is accountability.  In this, the company takes responsibility for its actions and is willing to be held accountable for the impact of its business practices. This includes being responsive to customer complaints, addressing any issues that may arise, and actively working to improve its environmental and social impact. Ethical brands should also be transparent about their progress and be willing to share information about their progress and the steps they are taking to improve. 

It should go without saying, but ethical brands should be committed to sustainability as well.  Remember what we said before about transparency not being the same as sustainable?! Well the same goes for ethics and sustainability.  Ethical brands should be working to reduce their environmental impact and promote sustainable practices, such as using renewable energy sources, reducing waste, and sourcing materials from sustainable sources. They should also be committed to protecting the rights of animals and preserving natural habitats.