It's Time to Give Back

By: Melinda Toussaint

This time of year is dedicated to giving, but what about giving back? Every day the world and its' inhabitants are suffering from harsh living conditions and many of us feel helpless to change that. But what if buying a cup of coffee, or cards, or a tube of lipstick could change that? Well… maybe it can.

We don't all have the money or power to cure AIDS or fight global warming but supporting the companies that do is important. The following companies are just a few of the big names that have been doing their part to protect the Earth and us.

Starbucks: I know it seems crazy to spend $4 per day on your specialty latte but in the long run you are doing a lot for the environment. Since 1998 Starbucks has partnered with Conservation International to help protect the land and farmers in which they derive their coffee. Since that time they have increased their farmers income by 40 percent (on average), created Coffee and Farmer Equality – C.A.F.E.- guidelines in which 60 percent of their suppliers are following as of 2007, and in March of 2008 they have renewed a five-year agreement to address global climate change. Maybe splurging for Starbucks isn't so bad after all?! Visit www.conservation.org or www.starbucks.com to learn more.

M.A.C. Cosmetics: Not only has M.A.C. provided longer lasting eye shadow and clump-free mascara, but they have worked to fight AIDS with their makeup. M.A.C. Cosmetics started their AIDS fund in 1994 the same year they introduced the Viva Glam lipstick line. Thus, 100 percent of Viva Glam Collection purchases go directly to fighting AIDS. So far they have donated a total of $128 million. Visit www.macaidsfund.org to find out how to help.

Coca-Cola: The Coca-Cola Company has been one the world's largest consumer companies for a very long time and it's a good thing too. The Coca-Cola Company, among many other things, is a proud sponsor of the World Wildlife Fund (www.worldwildlife.org). They have been trying to improve water efficiency, reduce carbon emissions, and sustain agricultural practices. Together they are helping to conserve seven of the world's most important freshwater river basins. So far they have contributed $99 million to charities, have begun more than 120 water projects in over 50 countries and they have extended their partnership until 2012. Go to
www.thecoca-colacompany.com and click on Sustainability to read more.

Pier 1 Imports: Pier 1 has been a proud partner of UNICEF (United Nation's International Children's Emergency Fund) since 1985 and has since raised $28 million to provide food, water, shelter, and medical attention to children in need across the globe. Pier 1 Imports has raised money through four events but currently if you purchase the UNICEF holiday greeting cards (in stores now) 100 percent of the proceeds will go directly to UNICEF. If one Pier 1 location sells just 9 boxes of UNICEF cards it will provide water for over 2,000 children for the whole year! Visit www.unicef.org or www.pier1.com to help!

I know we all think that to be green we have to spend less and conserve more but by spending wisely your money will go a long way. Opt for Starbucks just once a week, or buy Coke instead of the competitor, or choose a greeting card made by a child…. if you do… it could make a difference. Buying products made by companies who care empowers them to change the world… for all of us.