The Planet - Our Only Home

In today's world, it is easy to feel overwhelmed by what circulates in the news, especially when it comes to climate. For us, a family that spends a great deal of time in nature, we notice the drastic changes that are transpiring in Switzerland. At times, our observations feel bleak and overwhelming, but today, we feel a bit more hopeful. Yvon Chouinard, whom we have always considered a modern day hero, just announced that he as given his company (Patagonia), worth 3 billion, over to the Earth. A move that is both shocking and noteworthy and above all, right. A decision that is refreshing when companies constantly focus on more: more profits - more market share - more and more and more. A grotesque business model that is not sustainable for the people, nor the planet.

If ever there was a dynamo for environmental issues, it would have to be Yvon Chouinard. Outspoken, relentless, honest, genuine, reluctant, and candid, this man is doing what he can to create change and preserve what we have left of our incredible planet. He is moving mountains and abandoning the standard “rules” that have shaped most companies. He is taking a public stance through his business when it comes to politics and the environment.

So today, we thank Yvon and Patagonia for doing the right thing. For understanding that we do live in a world of finite resources and that without our Earth, there is no future. Thank you for demonstrating that there is a way of doing things differently. Patagonia will now live on as a model that proves, if you don't like something, change it. If you ideal doesn't exist change it. If you don't life the way something has always been done, forge a new path! Today, we should take note and realize, yes, there is a different way of doing things. A way that abandons the old traditions in the attempt to create a better tomorrow.

Thanks Yvon, for once again restoring our faith in humanity. For demonstrating that there is an alternative to greed and power and that somethings are worth protecting - at any cost! If it's possible to love you even more, well, we certainly do!

“Who are businesses really responsible to? Their customers? Shareholders? Employees? We would argue that it’s none of the above. Fundamentally, businesses are responsible to their resource base. Without a healthy environment there are no shareholders, no employees, no customers and no business.” - Yvon Chouinard

P.S. If you haven't read, Let My People Go Surfing, it's a wonderful read.