Gemline (PPAI 113948, S11) has joined the UPS Carbon Neutral Program, designed to offset the CO2 associated with UPS shipments, and has earned certification by the Sustainable Business Leader Program (SBLP) through the Sustainable Business Leadership Network of Massachusetts. The organization is dedicated to helping businesses “green” their operations and practices, while saving valuable natural resources and money. SBLP is the leading Green Certification Program for small businesses in the U.S.

In a statement, the Lawrence, Massachusetts-based supplier notes that these initiatives are part of a broadened commitment to its corporate social responsibility (CSR) mission and that Gemline’s CSR efforts are focused on making a positive impact on society through environmental stewardship, ethical business practices, charitable giving and diversity, equity and inclusion leadership. To be fully transparent with stakeholders regarding Gemline’s CSR efforts, the company has committed to publishing an annual Corporate Social Responsibility Report. The 2020 report is available for viewing on the Gemline website.

As its most notable 2020 CSR achievements, Gemline points to multiple initiatives to reduce its impact on the planet. From becoming a Zero Landfill Facility that ensures no waste from the company’s headquarters and manufacturing operations in Lawrence went into a landfill, to introducing a number of eco‐friendly products to its product assortment, the company notes that it is committed to building a more sustainable future.

Gemline also made more than $500,000 in monetary and in‐kind donations in 2020 to a variety of charitable causes that support communities through health and wellness programs, education and leadership activities. Also, its brand partners, including MiiR, Corkcicle, Soapbox and W&P, have collectively given back more than $100,000 to multiple charitable organizations as a result of their products being sold by Gemline through distributors in the promotional channel.

Gemline has also embarked on a number of additional sustainability initiatives earmarked for 2021 implementation, including the planned installation of rooftop solar panels at its headquarters, launching new eco‐friendly products made from recycled plastic bottles and bringing new eco‐conscious brands to the promotional industry, like Slowtide, a lifestyle brand, whose blankets and towels are made from sustainable materials.

“We clearly believe our company has an obligation to our communities and environment—a responsibility that will not end this year or next,” says Jonathan Isaacson, CEO of Gemline. “We continue to understand that good enough is not good enough, and intend to raise the bar in everything we do. In fact, we recently announced our intention to entirely eliminate PVC from our product line. This is something we strongly believe in, and hope others in the industry will follow.”