A few days ago I came across Ethikus while looking for some interesting sustainability best-practice. I liked the idea and sustainability approach so much that needed to write about who they are and what they do. Today I finally had the time to look at it in more detail. I would be really interested in your point of view on this great idea and whether this is something you could see working in your area.

Ethikus, who is that?

I have taken this directly from the Ethikus website as it describes it perfectly what they are intending to do: “We help you discover great local businesses where you can align your purchases with your values. Many stores and restaurants have great practices in mitigating environmental impact, engaging with their community, supporting their employees and sourcing products locally and naturally. But it’s hard to know who does what, and why we should shop or eat there.

That’s where ethikus comes in. We believe in supporting businesses that do good, and that it should be easy to do so. We survey local establishments and identify what’s ethical and sustainable in their day-to-day business practices. That information is put in our database and available for you, the conscientious shopper.

With ethikus you can find and choose local businesses that share your values, whether it’s composting and energy efficiency, or employee healthcare and community donations, or any combination of what you care about!”

What is ethical and sustainable for Ethikus?

I also liked their section where they describe what is ethical and sustainable in their view and that they clearly state that this is a for profit enterprise. Making a profit AND making a difference should and can go hand in hand. This is modern sustainabiity best practice in my view and I personally want more of this!

To give you more background on what they do watch this video on the latest initiative called “Shop Your Values Week“.

I don’t know about you but I like their idea and approach. It will be very interesting to see how this service is being taken up in NYC. I certainly hope that it is a business success and I would love to see it more cities in the US and all across the globe.