Zusa becomes official B Corp brand

Sustainable corporate apparel brand Zusa has officially obtained a B Corp certification.

The Plymouth-based brand is now part of the global network of 8,337 B Corp certification businesses from 96 countries. Zusa has been outspoken concerning its sustainable practices since its early days, including its carbon-neutral certification and 1 percent For The Planet membership.

"We're proud that Zusa is now a B Corp brand, furthering our commitment to sustainability," said Richard Ward, founder and CEO of Zusa, in a statement. "Each year we continue to make progressive steps from our longstanding partnership with 1 percent For The Planet to becoming carbon-neutral in 2023, we strive to do right by our customers and the planet."

Businesses must undergo assessment and certification by the nonprofit B Lab to obtain a B Corp certification. The evaluation process for B Corp candidates involves the B Impact Assessment, which gauges prospective members' positive and negative contributions to society and the environment.

The benchmarks for this assessment are established by the Standards Advisory Council and the Board of Directors of B Lab through the B Impact Assessment. To secure B Corp certification, applicants must achieve at least 80 points. Zusa notably surpassed this threshold with a score of 123.3, exceeding the average business score by 72.4 points.

Founded by Ward in 2019 to address the harmful environmental impacts of the clothing industry, Zusa developed operational practices designed to reduce greenhouse gas emissions, use recycled materials wherever possible, and decrease the consumption of natural resources. The brand monitors each aspect of its production process, from material sourcing to shipping, and only partners with WRAP-certified factories.

Since its foundation five years ago, Zusa has made a name for itself in designing professional wear and performance attire. It has successfully launched a comprehensive range of eco-friendly clothing, outerwear, accessories, bags, and drinkware.