Our world produces an abundance of waste. Consumer goods are often over-wrapped in unnecessary plastic that gets carelessly discarded which continues to harm our planet. Statistics show that 64% of Americans are interested in climate change proposals that help protect the environment for future generations (Funk, 2021). What can we do to ensure an environment that will remain sustainable for the next generation?

At Duck Duck Books and Eco Goods, sustainability is one of the key pillars in our business. We intentionally implement ways to reduce our carbon footprint as a business through our day-to-day operation and product design. Most recently, Duck Duck Books+Eco Goods was recognized as a Envirostars Green Business Program tier one leader through our efforts as follows:

• Reduce water and energy use
• Waste less and recycle right
• Prevent pollution
• Use non-toxic cleaners/materials
• Support sustainable transportation
• Engage employees and community

And by creating eco-conscious products that are reusable, upcyclable, and sustainably made:

• Board Books
• Printed using plant-based ink on paper sourced from sustainable forests
• Built to last - can withstand dirt, water, being dropped, thrown or whatever happens when a child is reading or playing around with them
• Eco goods
• Washable 
• Convertible 
• Uses renewable resources when possible

One of our eco-goods products is the Duck Duck GiftSwaddle, which is a reusable alternative to one-time use wrapping paper, inspired by Furoshiki. It also has multiple uses like wearing it as a headband or using it as a bandana for your pet.

Since our target audience is children ages 0-5, we want to encourage children and their families to make choices that are better for the environment from the beginning. We can start setting a good example for our children today in the kinds of products we buy, efforts to reuse items, and trying to reduce waste when possible. Using reusable bags, containers, utensils, and products that have more than a one time use is a great start. It’s never too young or too late to start living an eco-friendly lifestyle.