There is no one-size-fits-all solution for ways that brands can have a climate-positive impact, but a common denominator is, or at least should be, transparency. Consumers support brands that honestly measure and display their sustainability roadmap and the steps they are taking toward positive change. Brands leading the way tackle sustainability at each point in a product’s lifecycle: efficient packaging, upcycling materials, reducing carbon emissions and creating close supplier relationships.

For the June/July/August issue, NFM asked four experts representing different sustainability spheres and organizations to contribute their insights on sustainability and how retailers and brands can make real, measurable progress.

At The Climate Collaborative, we approach sustainability from the lens of climate action in support of a regenerative future that is healthy, sustainable and just. While we recognize that the reduction of carbon and other harmful emissions is critical to advancing climate efforts, we believe that the best climate practices for businesses require making a bold commitment, progressing toward that commitment, being transparent in reporting and engaging in climate advocacy.

So how does The Climate Collaborative decide if a company is aligned with these practices? There are only a small number of product climate certifications, and their primary focus is on emissions reductions and the use of offsets to mitigate emissions. Climate product and company certifications are challenging for many reasons. Carbon accounting is not yet standardized, which means it is difficult to make an apples to apples comparison. Likewise, carbon offsets can range drastically in quality.

Related:Sustainability perspective: Today's complicated, expensive packaging system must end

Related:Sustainability perspective: Upcycled ingredients reduce food waste

The road to net zero

One way brands can set their sights on a net-zero future is by turning their focus towards offsetting (or even insetting) their carbon footprints. Among those CPG brands leading the way are industry stalwarts and pioneers who are addressing emissions through a variety of sustainability efforts.

Numi Tea Organic Yuzu Bancha Green Tea

This Climate Neutral Certified B Corp is adding a new Carbon Footprint Label to its teas, which will break down each product’s emissions into four categories (ingredients, packaging, transport and preparation), providing insight into the carbon impact of each tea. This citrusy flavored, premium green tea is USDA Organic. SRP: $7.99

Badger SPF 50 Adventure Sport Mineral Sunscreen

Packaged in an infinitely recyclable tin, this reef-friendly sunscreen is Protect Land + Sea Certified. Made with only four organic ingredients, the sunscreen is manufactured in a 100% solar-powered facility. Along with its regenerative agricultural practices, Badger is on track for net-zero carbon emissions by the year 2030. SRP: $14.99

Organic Valley French Vanilla Lactose free Creamer

These new organic creamers are wonderfully rich with just 3 grams of sugar per serving. The brand relies on 100% solar- and wind-powered facilities, and has launched a new Carbon Insetting Program aimed at reaching carbon neutrality through deep emission reductions and carbon sequestration on member farms. SRP: $5.29

Airly Crackers Salted Caramel Oat Clouds

Airly works with farmers to use regenerative agricultural practices and capture more carbon than is produced in manufacturing. The brand undertakes seed-to-shelf accounting on the carbon capture and invests in carbon credits to offset its footprint for production and delivery. And all this, at a competitive price point. SRP: $3.49

Garden of Life Dr. Formulated Magnesium Gummies

Leading the way once again is Garden of Life,  the first supplement company to be certified Carbon Neutral by carbonfund.org. That’s a net neutral impact: It measures carbon footprint, reduces emissions in ways large and small and purchases carbon credits to offset the balance. SRP: $19.99/60 gummies