The word sustainability is a hot topic these days. If you simply Google the word, hundreds of articles come up that relate to farming, global warming, recycling and sustainable practices. But what exactly does the word mean?

Sustainability is the endurance of systems and processes. It is the capacity to endure and to be productive indefinitely. Wikipedia defines the organizing principle in sustainability as “the four interconnected domains: ecology, economics, politics and culture.” Sustainable practices ultimately allow us to keep living on this beautiful planet and to endure a healthy life.

Companies have the capacity to burn a lot of energy and resources which is why it’s so important for businesses to practice sustainability. It is a core value and a priority at TORRAIN and actually, sustainability has been gradually developing in our business world at large. It’s fascinating and encouraging to witness this shift in awareness. Solar power, stand up desks, recycle bins, recycled materials, exercise rooms and urban farming are being seen more frequently in our working world which will encourage health, energy, longevity and ultimately success.

TORRAIN uses upcycled plastic materials to make our bags. If these materials are not used, they end up and remain in our streets and landfills. We choose to source some of our materials outside the US because of the communities that we are able to support as well as protect our one planet. The carbon footprint of import is not lost on us though. That is why we started our US made line, sourcing all our materials and manufacturing in Portland, OR.

In my own life, I find it easier to be sustainable. I shop local, try to buy products with very minimal packaging, eat local, buy reused clothing…  Living in Portland makes it very easy to practice these habits. There are simple ways to create impact in your own community.

• Consider starting your own garden or community garden
• Shop locally
• Don’t buy more than you need
• Recycle
• Shop organic and try your best to use all natural beauty and cleaning products.

Change is not made overnight. What is important is that we each reflect on our own lives and choices that we make. Are we making a difference? Are we encouraging others to use sustainable practices? Remember, change starts small but in the end, it can make a world of difference.