#United States #Hilo #B Corp #Hawaiian #Waiākea

Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages Achieves B Corp Certification

Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages, a pioneer in sustainable packaging and community-focused initiatives, has officially gained recognition as a Certified B Corporation. With a score of 126.6 on the B Impact Assessment, Waiākea not only surpasses the required threshold of 80 but also ranks among the top 5 percent of all global B Corps. This certification marks a significant achievement, underscoring the company's commitment to social and environmental responsibility within the beverage industry.

Established in Hilo, Hawaii, in 2012, Waiākea has made commendable strides in sustainability, drawing water from one of the world's most renewable aquifers. Its unique sourcing method taps into an aquifer that has an impressive recharge rate of over 898 million gallons per day. This approach ensures that Waiākea is not just providing a product but contributing positively to the environment.

Waiākea's packaging is equally impressive; 100% of its OceanPlast™ bottles are made from post-consumer recycled ocean-bound plastic, emphasizing its dedication to minimizing waste and promoting a circular economy. The company’s founder, Ryan Emmons, stated, "We’ve always viewed it as our kuleana to care for the land, be a catalyst for change in our industry, and bring our community with us on the journey."

In addition to its environmental efforts, Waiākea has built an impactful community initiative known as the Kōkua Initiative, which collaborates with over 175 non-profit organizations and community leaders to enhance conservation projects across Hawaii. This initiative has positively affected over 556,000 lives, focusing on educational opportunities and support for the most vulnerable members of society.

The B Impact Assessment evaluates companies on various factors, including governance, community engagement, treatment of workers, environmental impact, and customer relations. Waiākea’s achievements highlight an unwavering commitment to these critical areas, exemplifying how businesses can leverage their operations for greater good.

Reflecting on this accomplishment, Emmons expressed pride in the long journey to certification and the pivotal role Waiākea plays as an industry leader. Since its reincorporation as a Public Benefit Corporation in 2023, Waiākea has legally committed to a business model that prioritizes people and the planet alongside profits.

In summary, Waiākea Hawaiian Volcanic Beverages isn’t just a beverage brand; it is a beacon of sustainability and community empowerment. The company continues to inspire others in the beverage sector and beyond, demonstrating that environmental and social consideration can coexist with successful business practices. With its roots deeply embedded in Hawaiian values and sustainability principles, Waiākea aims to pave the way for an eco-conscious future, signaling clear intentions for ongoing positive change in the industry.

For more information about transpires at Waiākea, visit their website at Waiākea or follow them on Instagram @Waiākea.