March is B Corp Month, an annual global celebration where B Lab and the International B Corp community come together to honour and promote the values of B Corp certification. This year’s theme, ‘Generation B’, highlights a new generation of thought leaders dedicated to leading for good and using business as a force for positive change.
Since our founding in 1964, Summerland Bank has been committed to sustainability and community well-being. In 2023, we achieved B Corp certification, joining thousands of businesses worldwide that meet high standards of social and environmental performance, accountability, and transparency.
Our B Corp certification is more than just a mark; it’s a reflection of our dedication to ethical and responsible growth. We prioritise delivering value to our customers while making a positive impact on the environment and society. This commitment is evident in our sustainability initiatives, such as our eco home loans, financial literacy education delivered across the Northern Rivers, and using renewable resources rather than plastic for our credit and debit cards.
As a customer-owned bank, we believe in putting people and the planet first. Our B Corp certification underscores this philosophy, ensuring that our business practices benefit all stakeholders, including our customers, employees, and the broader community.
We’re not alone in our commitment to sustainability and ethical business practices. Here are some local B Corp businesses in the Northern Rivers region who are leading the way in making a positive impact:
Sienna Byron Bay
A local company creating sustainable and cruelty-free beauty products. Sienna Byron Bay is committed to reducing environmental impact, offering vegan and eco-friendly nail polishes that prioritise the health of people and the planet.
The Owners Collective
A platform that supports small business owners, entrepreneurs, and creatives, The Owners Collective is dedicated to providing resources that empower individuals to build sustainable, purpose-driven businesses that contribute to a better future.
Olli Ella
This Byron Bay-based brand designs and creates beautifully crafted home and lifestyle products with a focus on sustainability. Olli Ella is dedicated to fair trade and ethical practices, ensuring their products support artisans around the world.
Spell
A renowned fashion brand based in Byron Bay, Spell is focused on creating beautiful clothing with sustainable materials and ethical production processes. Their commitment to environmental sustainability and social impact is reflected in every part of their business.
These businesses, along with many others, embody the values that B Corp certification stands for. They are committed to ensuring that sustainability and community well-being are at the core of everything they do.
During B Corp Month, we invite you to learn more about what it means to be a B Corp and how businesses like ours are striving to make a difference. Here are some ways you can get involved:
- Support Local B Corps: By supporting businesses like Sienna Byron Bay, Olli Ella, The Owners Collective, and Spell you’re contributing to a more sustainable and equitable economy. Look for the B Corp logo when shopping or choosing services in your local community.
- Take the B Impact Assessment: If you’re a business owner, consider taking the B Impact Assessment to see how your business measures up in terms of social and environmental impact. This free tool helps businesses of all sizes assess their performance in areas like sustainability, community engagement, and employee well-being.
- Learn More About B Corp: You can learn more about B Corp Month and the movement at the official B Corp website. Gain insight into how businesses are using their power to create a positive impact on society and the environment.
Together, we can lead for good and create a more sustainable and equitable future. As businesses, consumers, and communities, we have the power to make a meaningful difference. Let’s continue to support businesses that are dedicated to ethical growth, social responsibility, and sustainability.
