Greening the Promo Industry: The Shift Toward Eco-Friendly Promotional Products

Branded pens, tote bags, and water bottles have long been staples of the promotional marketing world. But with increasing awareness about environmental issues, one big question keeps popping up: Where do all these promotional products end up?

Unfortunately, the answer often isn’t great. Most end up in landfills, oceans, or forgotten in drawers, barely used and quickly discarded. But there’s a powerful shift happening in the industry: the rise of eco-friendly promotional products.

Why Eco-Friendly Promotional Products Matter More Than Ever

Lindsay Hampson, President of This Rock, has been on both sides of the equation. With a background in marketing and trade shows and now working in sustainability consulting, she’s seen firsthand how promotional items can be both powerful brand tools, and significant waste contributors.

Here’s why the switch to eco-friendly promotional items is more than just a trend:

• Roughly 80% of promotional products are discarded within a year.
• Many items use virgin materials, require excessive shipping, and are wrapped in single-use plastic.
• Consumers and major brands alike are demanding more sustainable alternatives.

Common Challenges in the Promotional Industry

The industry faces three major sustainability hurdles:

1. Material Waste – Most promo items are made from new, non-recycled resources.
2. High Emissions – Global shipping and plastic-heavy packaging increase carbon footprints.
3. Greenwashing – Products labeled “biodegradable” or “eco-friendly” often don’t live up to their claims.

Only 14% of promo companies track material sourcing beyond Tier 1 suppliers, according to a 2024 EcoVadis supplier survey. That’s a wake-up call.

What Marketers Can Do Today

If you’re in marketing or procurement, you have the power to reshape the industry from the inside. Here’s how:

1. Choose Verified Vendors

Look for certifications like:

• EcoVadis
  • A global rating platform that scores companies on environmental, labor, ethics, and sustainable procurement practices. Many big brands now require vendors to have an EcoVadis score.
• B Corp
  • Short for “Benefit Corporation,” this certification is awarded to businesses that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, transparency, and accountability.
• FSC (Forest Stewardship Council)
  • This label means the product comes from responsibly managed forests that provide environmental, social, and economic benefits, great for paper, wood, or packaging products.
• Fair Trade
  • Ensures producers in developing countries get fair prices and work in safe conditions. You’ll often see this label on cotton, food, or handmade goods in the promo world.
• Science-Based Targets
  • A framework that helps companies set carbon reduction goals aligned with what’s needed to meet the Paris Agreement. It shows a serious commitment to lowering emissions.

These ensure your promo partners meet rigorous sustainability standards.

2. Reduce Single-Use Swag

Prioritize utility and longevity. Ask: Will the recipient still be using this a year from now? Opt for:

• Recycled or organic materials
• Multi-use items
• Higher-quality, lower-quantity giveaways

3. Measure Your Impact

Evaluate how much you used to spend on unsustainable promo items, then compare that with the cost, and impact, of switching to sustainable options.

What the Industry is Doing Right

Organizations like ASI (Advertising Specialty Institute) and PPAI (Promotional Products Association International) are leading the way with sustainability initiatives. Their platforms offer tools, research, and educational content to help distributors and suppliers make greener choices.

Eco-friendly promotional products aren’t just good for the planet, they’re good for your brand. When your giveaway aligns with your values, it becomes more than just swag. It’s a statement.

Whether you’re planning a trade show, onboarding new employees, or sourcing giveaways for your next campaign, now’s the time to choose sustainable.

Ready to Make Your Promotional Products More Sustainable?

At ThisRock, we specialize in helping businesses align their promotional strategies with sustainability goals. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to enhance your current efforts, we’re here to guide you every step of the way.

Let’s connect for a 15-minute chat to discuss how we can support your journey toward eco-friendly promotional products.

Together, we can create promotional items that not only represent your brand but also reflect your commitment to a sustainable future.

Frequently Asked Questions