← Back to Teaching Sustainability
Ariel Le
May 23, 2025
This multi-billion dollar industry comprises suppliers and distributors offering branded merchandise—from t-shirts and key chains to stickers, pens, and mugs—for corporate giveaways, college welcome kits, and trade show distributions.
While the industry has deep historical roots, mounting sustainability concerns have prompted evolution. The sector faces tension between its production-volume focus and emerging demands for responsible sourcing and quality prioritization over quantity.
Liz Wimbush, the inaugural Director of Sustainability and Responsibility at Promotional Products Association International (PPAI), exemplifies industry leadership. She championed examination of product origins, materials, manufacturing practices, and disposal methods. Wimbush emphasizes that "Everybody can have an impact in your personal life, in what you bring to work, in the conversations you have, and what you learn about and share."
Pursue certifications like B Corp, Fair Trade, FSC (Forest Stewardship Council), or Cradle to Cradle to demonstrate commitment and build credibility.
Select recyclable and biodegradable materials preventing landfill accumulation. Minimize plastics and chemical dyes that cause environmental pollution during production and disposal. For textiles and bags, consider organic cotton or hemp to reduce microplastic release.
Implement right-sized, minimal packaging reducing waste and shipping emissions. Pursue reusable or returnable solutions, eliminating unnecessary single-use plastics like bubble wrap and plastic sleeves. Opt for recyclable packaging alternatives.
Collaborate with transparent suppliers publishing impact reports. Prioritize small or local businesses reducing transportation emissions. Verify renewable energy use, fair wages, safe conditions, and ethical labor practices across supply chains.
Engage local suppliers to decrease transportation emissions, lower carbon footprints, improve turnaround times, reduce costs, and enhance quality control.
Design products considering end-of-life disposal. Utilize mono-material designs simplifying recycling. Avoid coatings or glues compromising recyclability. Implement take-back programs with QR codes or instructions for proper disposal and repurposing.
Select promotional items recipients genuinely want and will retain long-term. Prioritize durability and higher quality over cheap, disposable swag. Understand target markets and provide functional items with meaningful brand integration, keeping excess materials from landfills.
