http://money.cnn.com/2013/11/12/smallbusiness/b-corp-blueavocado/index.html?iid=A_SB_News

BlueAvocado has built an entire empire selling reusable totes, travel gears and lunch bags. A major point-of-difference, however, is that Blue Avocado sources nearly all of its material from recycled plastic bottles. The company also wishes to make clear that the Company’s intentions are genuine and not marketing-driven. As a result, the company has since gained ‘B-Corp’ status- a certification that shows a company is committed to solving both social and environmental issues, despite a profit-driven model.

By rethinking products and markets, BlueAvocado has successfully made a difference in the environment while appealing to environmentally-conscious consumers. Their goal of expanding total value economically and socially has emphasized Blue Avocado’s triple bottom line. Instead of totes and travel gear made by toxic plastics and wasteful material, Blue Avocado’s focus on identifying and expanding the connections between economic and societal progress is paying dividends in profit and for the environment.

Despite other companies over-promising and under-delivering statements to be “sustainable”, BlueAvocado’s B-Corp status defines the expectations consumers should have of the company in terms of sustainability. After BlueAvocado obtained this status in March 2013, the business erupted and is now featured in over 300 Target Stores.

Tim Leung blogged about Ikea’s initiative towards a low-carbon future by cultivating wind energy to create shared value. Both Ikea and BlueAvocado are changing their business practices for the ultimate betterment of society as a whole.