Business Ethic

It’s a simple idea for a not-so-simple world: Make a product without hurting air, water, soil and people. People, in fact, are the driving force behind our business ethic. How we relate to people – suppliers, producers, employees and customers – informs every aspect of the way we do business.

We believe that strong local economies are the key to sustainable living, and we work to create and support community at local and global levels. Naturally, we buy and eat local whenever possible. And yet we remain conscious and active in how we choose to participate as members of the global community.

A significant choice we make is to produce our garments in the United States. We maintain close contact with our manufacturers and visit frequently. That way we – and you – can be confident that Sweetgrass clothes are made in an environment that’s safe and supportive for workers. Factory employees receive health benefits, overtime pay, fair wages and required breaks.

On the global front, we partner with organizations working around the clock and around the world to promote sustainable practices in business and agriculture. Some of the trade groups we belong to are listed below, and we’re thankful for their efforts to harness the collective power of individual businesses and people to work towards positive change.

• Hemp Industries Association ............... www.thehia.org
  
• Green America.............................. www.coopamerica.org
  
• Organic Exchange........................... www.organicexchange.org

Sweetgrass itself functions as a community. Internally, our work environment supports employees with flexibility, open communications and positive interaction. Externally, our customers form an integral part of the Sweetgrass community, and we work to build lasting relationships with each one through excellent service and genuine appreciation.

Beyond the office, outdoor pursuits and activism beckon here in southern Oregon, and Sweetgrass donates a portion of profits to support organizations working on issues of sustainability and environmental stewardship within our local bioregion and at large. Two of our local favorites are Klamath-Siskiyou Wildlands Center and Lomakatsi Restoration Project.

These are the choices we make, and we’re grateful that thousands of Sweetgrass customers are making similar choices. As we package our apparel and send it out into the world, it travels with the hope that it makes a difference in the way we all conduct business, choose to consume and impact the planet.

Please browse and learn more about Our Roots, Design Philosophy, and Environmental Ethic. Browse our latest line of clothing.

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