Seventh Generation Inc.

Seventh Generation Inc. is an American company that specializes in the production and sale of environmentally friendly cleaning, paper, and personal care products. Established in 1988, the company has been at the forefront of advocating for corporate responsibility and sustainability in the consumer goods industry. Seventh Generation Inc. is named after the Iroquois philosophy that the decisions we make today should result in a sustainable world seven generations into the future.

History

The company was founded in 1988 by Alan Newman and Jeffrey Hollender, who were inspired by the Iroquois principle of considering the impact of their actions on the next seven generations. Initially, Seventh Generation Inc. focused on mail-order catalog sales of sustainable products but eventually expanded into the retail market. Over the years, it has grown to become one of the leading brands in the eco-friendly products market, offering a wide range of items from laundry detergents and cleaning products to diapers and wipes.

Products

Seventh Generation Inc. offers a variety of products that are designed to be sustainable and environmentally friendly. These include:

• Laundry Detergent: Biodegradable and plant-based detergents.
• Dishwashing Liquid: Non-toxic and free from synthetic fragrances.
• Disinfectants: Products that kill germs without the use of harsh chemicals.
• Paper Products: Including recycled paper towels and toilet paper.
• Personal Care Products: Such as organic cotton tampons and natural baby wipes.

The company emphasizes the use of natural and plant-based ingredients in its products, avoiding chemicals that are harmful to the environment and human health.

Sustainability and Environmental Advocacy

Seventh Generation Inc. is committed to sustainability and environmental advocacy. It has implemented various initiatives to reduce its carbon footprint, including using recycled materials in its packaging and advocating for legislation that promotes environmental responsibility. The company also supports various non-profit organizations focused on environmental conservation and sustainability.

Acquisition by Unilever

In 2016, Seventh Generation Inc. was acquired by Unilever, a multinational consumer goods company. This acquisition has allowed Seventh Generation to expand its reach and continue its mission of environmental stewardship under the umbrella of a global corporation. Despite concerns about maintaining its eco-friendly ethos under a large conglomerate, Seventh Generation has continued to operate with a strong commitment to sustainability and environmental advocacy.

Controversies

Like many companies, Seventh Generation Inc. has faced its share of controversies, particularly concerning the balance between corporate growth and environmental sustainability. Critics have questioned whether its acquisition by Unilever might compromise its founding principles. However, the company maintains that its mission and values remain intact and that the partnership with Unilever has provided additional resources to further its environmental goals.

Conclusion

Seventh Generation Inc. represents a successful model of how businesses can operate sustainably and profitably. By prioritizing the environment and health in its product design and corporate practices, Seventh Generation has set a standard for corporate responsibility in the consumer goods industry. As the company continues to grow and evolve, it remains focused on its founding principle of considering the impact of its actions on future generations.

Seventh Generation Inc. Resources
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