Introduction
With so many brands claiming to be eco-friendly, it’s hard to know which ones truly make a difference. That’s where Public Goods comes in—a company that has simplified sustainability, making it accessible, affordable, and beautiful. Founded in 2017 by Morgan Hirsh and Michael Ferchak, Public Goods is not just about selling products; it’s about changing the way we consume and, ultimately, making the world a better place.
Origins of Public Goods
Public Goods began as an idea rooted in purpose. Morgan Hirsh’s journey started in Shanghai with a vision for Green Cab, an electric taxi fleet that promoted environmentally friendly companies. Although this idea didn’t take off, it laid the groundwork for his partnership with Michael Ferchak. After a stint running his family’s manufacturing business, Hirsh was determined to create something impactful, leading to the founding of Public Goods. “Many of the toughest problems we face are the result of the products we choose to consume,” Hirsh reflected in an article from Forbes, highlighting the mission that continues to drive Public Goods today.
Public Goods’ Mission and Purpose
At its core, Public Goods is about making sustainable, healthy choices easy and accessible to all. They offer a wide array of products, from personal care and household essentials to groceries and supplements, all designed to meet the highest standards of sustainability and quality. As Hirsh explains, “Our purpose is to help make healthier, more informed choices easy and accessible to a much wider swath of consumers”. This commitment to transparency and responsibility is evident in everything they do, from sourcing ingredients to packaging.
Growth and Funding Journey
Public Goods’ journey from concept to success is a testament to the power of a clear mission. Launched through a Kickstarter campaign, the company quickly resonated with consumers, selling ten thousand memberships and raising $700,000 in just thirty-eight days—far exceeding their initial target. This success attracted further investment, with Public Goods raising over $22 million to date, including a $3 million seed round from Day One Ventures, Listen Ventures, and Yes VC. By adopting a membership model with a $79 annual fee, Public Goods is able to offer a broad range of sustainable products at direct-to-consumer prices, making eco-friendly living more affordable.
Innovative Products and Sustainable Practices
Public Goods sets itself apart with innovative product offerings and sustainable practices. From 100% recycled, post-consumer plastic bottles to tree-free paper products, every aspect of their supply chain is designed with the environment in mind. Their minimalist packaging is not just about aesthetics—it’s about reducing waste and making sustainability the norm. “Sometimes, as with its biodegradable trash bags, this means no packaging at all—just a sticker on the roll,” showcasing their dedication to stripping away unnecessary components.
Public Goods is also known for actively involving their customers in product development, launching new items based on direct feedback. This approach has allowed them to expand their product line to include around 400 SKUs, each meeting their stringent standards for sustainability, accessibility, and affordability.
Community and Environmental Impact
Public Goods’ commitment to positive environmental and social impact extends beyond their products. Through their partnership with Eden Reforestation Projects, they have planted over 363,000 trees to date, which is “more than 18 times the number of trees in Central Park”. The company also donates near-expired products to organizations like The Campaign Against Hunger in New York and Valley View Community Food Bank in Arizona, ensuring their products benefit those in need rather than going to waste.
In their pursuit to become “Forest Positive,” Public Goods is dedicated to promoting responsible forest management and fighting deforestation. “The process of vetting, say, the relative sustainability of palm oil, is an extremely involved, very complex process that is really more of a journey than anything else,” Hirsh admits, emphasizing the brand’s commitment to continuous improvement.
Building an Iconic Brand
Public Goods isn’t just striving to be sustainable; they’re aiming to become an iconic brand that consumers can trust for all their essential needs. “What’s going to actually set us apart is that you can get everything you need at Public Goods,” Hirsh states, reflecting the brand’s vision of simplifying the consumer experience while maintaining high standards of quality and sustainability (Forbes Article). With a focus on fostering a healthy internal culture, setting ambitious goals, and prioritizing essentials over excess, Public Goods is on a path to redefine what it means to be a sustainable brand.
Takeaway
Public Goods stands out not just for its products, but for its unwavering commitment to sustainability, transparency, and purpose. By offering simple, sustainable solutions that fit seamlessly into everyday life, Public Goods is proving that small, conscious choices can lead to a significant impact. Their dedication to ethical sourcing, innovative product design, and community engagement makes them a brand worth supporting for anyone looking to live more sustainably.
FAQs
How does Public Goods differ from other sustainable brands?
Public Goods combines high-quality, eco-friendly products with a minimalist design and an affordable membership model, making sustainable living accessible to a wider audience .
What are the benefits of Public Goods’ membership model?
For an annual fee of $79, members get access to hundreds of sustainable products at direct-to-consumer prices, eliminating the need to sacrifice quality for affordability.
How does Public Goods ensure transparency in their sustainability efforts?
Public Goods is committed to transparently reporting on their progress, working with experts to define rigorous standards for terms like “climate-friendly” and “healthy,” and continuously engaging their suppliers to drive positive change.
Featured Image Credit: Public Goods
