Sustainable Marketing
Manifesto
I believe that marketing can be ethical, effective, simple, creative and even fun. In fact, if it’s to be truly sustainable, it needs to be all of these things.
Nature teaches us that we don’t exist in a vacuum and all flourishing is mutual. We need community and relationships to truly thrive.
Sustainable marketing is about doing less, but better - only focusing on what’s important and leaving the rest.
I also believe that marketing can learn from the concepts behind sustainability in its environmental sense:
Zero Waste - repurposing content, nurturing relationships over the long term, looking after customers so they become repeat buyers.
Non Toxic - no manipulative marketing, high pressure sales or deceptive claims.
Ecosystem - successful marketing involves understanding your niche within the ecosystem, who supports you, and who you can support.
Win:win - sustainable marketing is good for you and good for your customers and collaborators.
Share, don’t hoard - there’s enough for everyone and no need for the extractive and exploitative tactics espoused by late capitalism. A rising tide lifts all boars.
Inclusion - inclusive communities are strong communities - and making adjustments for marginalized groups makes things better for everyone.
Slow Living - slowing things down allows us to think through our ideas and act mindfully and with intention, which helps set us free from shiny object syndrome.
Cycles - nature works in cycles, and so do we. Expecting ourselves to be always ‘on’ is a recipe for burnout, we all need rest and fallow periods.
Regenerative - is one step beyond sustainable. Where sustainable seeks not to deplete, regenerative practices seek to restore new growth.
Cultural diversity > monoculture - nature abhors a monoculture, which is fundamentally weak and vulnerable.
Intersectional - you understand that everything is connected - the climate emergency is connected to the biodiversity crisis, which is connected to social justice, racial justice, gender equity, etc., etc.
I'm inspired by small business owners – we’re co-creating a better world
I believe that the world needs more alternatives to big business and monopolies.
We need a multiplicity of voices and ideas, and sustainable microbusinesses, supporting people to lead independent creative lives. The work my clients do, as business owners, designers, educators and healers, is making the world a better place for all of us to live in. I want to do my part to help you and your business to step into your larger purpose and thrive with support from your community.
I’m a strategic thought partner, here to give you tailored 1:1 support.
Christina Paul | Zeoni Creations
“I would ABSOLUTELY recommend working with Sophy! I got accountability and clarity, confidence and practical steps.
Her expertise covers so many important areas, from time and energy, to growing sustainably and authentically, to brand clarity, voice, story etc...
I think the reason I choose her over others is that inherent trust I feel, and the fact that she’s not just an empathiser and cheerleader, she always offers really practical nitty-gritty tips and strategies that I would have overlooked or am just not naturally wired to implement by myself. So I think she’s a particularly good fit for people with a lot of heart but who might need some grounding and practical support when it comes to executing their dreams.”
I believe we can all run thriving ethical businesses.
I’ve taken the pledge for transparent, responsible, and honest marketing. This pledge is designed for us to start a conversation about manipulation in marketing, challenge our assumptions about how we sell, and take a stand against unethical practices… together.
I put the person before the sale.
I respect you and your privacy. I will help you make the best choice for your needs.
I communicate inclusively, truthfully, and clearly.
I will not confuse you or hide information from you. I will help all audiences feel welcome.
I take responsibility for my part in changing the marketplace.
I recognize the need to break the cycle of consumerism. I will continuously review my sales and marketing to ensure they benefit the common good.
I count on you to hold me accountable. Please connect with me if you see me not honouring my pledge.
→ Learn more about The Ethical Move and join me in my commitment.