Great product design can make a real impact to people’s lives. We’ve selected a few of our favourite companies who are making a difference through great Product Design.
LifeStraw is a global health company focused on developing and manufacturing innovative water filtration and purification products. Their original LifeStraw personal water filter revolutionized access to safe drinking water in developing countries and outdoor settings. LifeStraw’s product line now includes a variety of filters and purifiers for individual use, households, and communities, addressing the need for clean water in both emergency situations and everyday life. The company is committed to social impact, donating a portion of their sales to support safe water access initiatives around the world.
Patagonia is an American outdoor apparel company renowned for its commitment to environmentalism and ethical manufacturing. Founded by Yvon Chouinard in 1973, Patagonia initially focused on climbing gear before expanding into a full range of outdoor clothing and equipment. The company is dedicated to using recycled materials, reducing its environmental footprint, and advocating for environmental protection. Patagonia is also known for its activism, supporting grassroots environmental groups and encouraging customers to reduce consumption through its “Don’t Buy This Jacket” campaign.
IKEA is a global home furnishings giant committed to creating a better everyday life for the many people. Beyond their affordable and stylish furniture, IKEA places a significant emphasis on social impact. They strive to make a positive difference throughout their value chain, from responsible sourcing of materials like wood and cotton, to promoting fair labour practices and empowering communities. IKEA is dedicated to sustainability, aiming to become a circular business by reducing waste and using renewable energy. They also champion diversity and inclusion within their workforce and support various social initiatives around the world, focusing on children’s rights, education, and disaster relief. IKEA’s vision extends beyond furnishing homes; they aim to contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world for everyone.
BioLite is a company on a mission to bring clean, safe energy to everyone, everywhere. They develop innovative products that transform how people cook, charge, and light their lives. By creating fantastic outdoor products to aid in developing communities. BioLite’s signature products, like their camp stoves, utilize biomass fuel (like twigs and branches) to generate not only heat for cooking but also electricity to charge devices. This ingenious technology reduces reliance on fossil fuels and wood fires, improving health and reducing environmental impact. Beyond recreation, BioLite’s solutions are designed to address critical needs in energy-poor regions, providing access to clean cooking, lighting, and power. They are committed to creating a world where everyone has access to reliable and sustainable energy, improving lives and fostering economic opportunity. BioLite’s work represents a powerful intersection of innovation, social impact, and environmental responsibility, truly bringing energy everywhere.
The Ocean Cleanup is an ambitious non-profit organization developing and deploying advanced technologies to rid the world’s oceans of plastic. Founded by Boyan Slat, the organization designs large-scale systems to passively collect plastic debris from the Great Pacific Garbage Patch and other accumulation zones. Their approach focuses on concentrating the plastic using the ocean’s natural currents, making collection more efficient. The collected plastic is then recycled, with the goal of preventing it from re-entering the ocean. The Ocean Cleanup is committed to not only removing existing plastic but also working towards closing the tap on future plastic pollution through partnerships and advocacy. They are driven by a mission to create a future where our oceans are free from plastic.
Make a difference through design. Talk to us to find out how you can make a real difference.
