The push for sustainability at Solmates started with a personal commitment to reduce their own impact on the environment. This reflection on everyday actions led to a realization of the need for a lasting solution in their community. For many in sunny Australia, applying sunscreen is a daily ritual, and as the empty bottles accumulated, Kelly Riley and Caroline Farrer felt compelled to act. Caroline shares, “I realised it was incredibly important to me to be not only more sustainable in my everyday life, but also find ways to translate that into my work.”

At Solmates, the approach to sustainability centers on efficiency, optimization, and collaboration. It aims to “do as much as possible to help in waste reduction.” Solmates doesn’t just focus on the financial investment in sustainability but on the overall effectiveness of its actions. It scrutinizes every step of its production process, from sourcing recycled plastics to designing products that are easier to recycle, ensuring that its entire production line upholds its commitment to sustainability.

Prioritizing what matters

At the beginning of their launch, not all plastic was able to be designed or removed from operations. From launch, Solmates knew they were not able to design and create the product without plastic. Conscientious of their footprint, Solmates remained steadfast in their commitment to sustainability, seeking ways to reduce waste and also amplify their impact. They understood the importance of building and maintaining trust and credibility among their eco-conscious customers and responded by forging strategic partnerships.

Creating fruitful relationships

Solmates demonstrated their commitment to their values by consistently investing in initiatives that promote safety and global sustainability each month. This provided customers with tangible proof that they could trust Solmates to fulfill their promises. Additionally, businesses and collaborators were drawn to Solmates’ dedication, leading to new opportunities to promote Solmates’ products. It also opened up media & PR opportunities around sustainable products including gift guides.