Patagonia’s founder Yvon Chouinard launched the iconic outdoor sportswear company from his love of wild landscapes — and the simplicity and exhilaration of the adventures to be had there. The company has been a conscientious advocate for environmental activism ever since, and today pledges one percent of its profits — no measly sum, with nearly $1bn in annual revenue — to help hundreds of grassroots non-profits around the world. The antithesis of “fast fashion”, Patagonia produces durable products that last generations, and it sponsors WornWear programmes to repair or return customers’ old Patagonia items. In 2017, it donated all Black Friday sales to charity — some $10m in one day. Patagonia puts the force of its empire behind its driving mission: to fight for the planet with all the resources at its disposal, from its business and investments to its voice and ingenuity. The BV judging panel is pleased to present Patagonia with the 2019 award for Most Dedicated Corporate Environmental Activism (US).
