Target is Making More of an Effort to Support Ethical Shopping—Here’s How

Ethical shopping is only growing in awareness and importance among consumers, with more companies publicizing their efforts to promote environmentally and culturally conscious values. If a big box store is the last place you’d think to look for such a thing, Target might surprise you, as the retailer is making them easier to identify.

As a part of its ongoing partnership with nonprofit Nest, Target now carries items bearing the Nest Seal, a label that serves as official “certification of ethical handcraft” that lets consumers know the items they’re purchasing have been ethically made in either a small workshop or home.  According to the organization’s website, “The Nest Seal incorporates hands symbolizing humanity, cooperation, and handicraft, as brought together with the image of a bird, depicting Nest’s work to give artisan businesses the wings they need to fly.” And since they’re not factory-produced, these are unique items you won’t find everywhere.

Among the first products to have the Nest Seal are select handwoven baskets from artisanal business Durus, with more items set to be introduced in the future. In order to attain Nest Seal status, the products must measure up to a strict set of standards outlined by the five pillars of Nest’s compliance model, which includes “worker rights and business transparency, child advocacy and protection, fair compensation and benefits, health and safety, and environmental care.”

The inclusion of the Nest Seal is only one the retailer’s latest steps to expand its environmental consciousness.  Earlier this spring, Target introduced a line of sustainable kitchen cleaning products. Additionally, the chain announced new climate goals that aim to reduce its greenhouse emissions.

“Our new climate goals will reduce our carbon footprint from source to shelf, as we work alongside our partners within our supply chain to lower emissions and help create a better tomorrow,” Target chairman and CEO Brian Cornell said in a press release. “We have a responsibility to our guests and the environment to set high expectations and encourage ambitious reductions in greenhouse gas emissions, promoting positive change throughout the industry to have an even greater impact for generations to come.”