For independent eye care practices and other small businesses that want to run a sustainability-focused business, it can be difficult to find the time to prioritize these efforts. One practical way gain guidance and structure for eco efforts is to join a national or local sustainability organization.
These groups offer guidance, structure and resources for staff education and training, public recognition for marketing support, policy advocacy, and more. And, in many cases, dues or contributions may be tax-deductible.
The business case for sustainability is clear, with consumer demand for environmentally responsible products and organizations climbing. According to 2025 GlobeScan data, 49% of Americans purchased an eco-friendly product in April 2025, up from 43% in July 2024. Simon-Kucher’s 2024 Sustainability Study, which surveyed over 6,000 consumers in six countries, reports that 64% of shoppers rank sustainability among their top three purchasing factors.
The numbers show that sustainability is no longer a fringe consideration. But, to build patient trust, eye care practices can back their sustainability claims with action and transparency.
Membership in a national or local sustainability organization is a good place to start—there are numerous national groups available today to provide assistance. Plus, many cities and regions have eco-conscious business organizations and programs. Some of the many examples include the Sustainable Business Network of Greater Philadelphia and California Green Business Network programs.
Here, to get started, we detail eight national organizations that can help eye care practices take steps toward—and gain additional credibility with—their own sustainability efforts.
Insight Media Group is also aligned with sustainability efforts. As part of our commitment to a greener future, Insight Media Group is a member of 1% for the Planet, committing a portion of revenue to support vetted environmental nonprofits.
1. Green America’s Green Business Network
Details: The longest-running sustainable business network in the country, Green Business Network offers access to Green Business Certification to help businesses market their sustainability efforts. It also provides small-to-medium sized businesses with other tools and resources, such as webinars and online workshops.
Best For: Green certification, marketing, sustainability guidance
Learn More: greenbusinessnetwork.org
2. U.S. Green Chamber of Commerce
Details: This national business network offers tools and a broad business community as well as a Sustainable Business Associate Certification program. Its Global Climate Pledge urges individuals and businesses to commit to climate action.
Best For: Networking, education, resources, certification
Learn More: usgreenchamber.com
3. 1% for the Planet
Details: 1% for the Planet connects businesses with vetted environmental nonprofits. Members commit to donating 1% of their annual sales directly to these causes, providing a clear, verifiable sustainability commitment.
Best For: Environmental giving and brand credibility
Learn More: onepercentfortheplanet.org
4. Arbor Day Foundation
Details: The Arbor Day Foundation offers corporate partnership opportunities tied to tree planting projects. Their programs can support specific sustainability goals with nature-based solutions.
Best For: Environmental impact and support
Learn More: arborday.org
5. B Lab
Details: Small businesses can utilize B Lab’s B Impact tools to help measure, manage, and improve their environmental performance and impact.
Best For: Sustainability assessment and long-term accountability
Learn More: bimpactassessment.net
6. Green Business Bureau
Details: This organization provides a certification for businesses to formally assess, track, and communicate their sustainability work, including reducing paper use, improving recycling efforts, and evaluating energy use.
Best For: Certification, benchmarking and improvement planning
Learn More: greenbusinessbenchmark.com
7. The Change Climate Project
Details: The Change Climate Project’s The Climate Label certification is centered around measuring emissions, using an internal carbon fee, and funding climate-transition projects.
Best For: Credibility, certification toward climate change-related efforts
Learn More: changeclimate.org
8. American Sustainable Business Network
Details: ASBN is a national coalition that represents small businesses regarding policy advocacy at federal and state levels. The organization gives members access to legislative initiatives and offers ways to connect with other like-minded business leaders.
Best For: Advocacy, networking, policy engagement
Learn More: asbnetwork.org
Joining even one of these organizations can help practices go from abstract sustainability intentions to structured, credible impact.
Whether eye care practices want to focus on advocacy, accountability, marketing, or philanthropy, there’s a sustainability organization that can help reach those goals and build toward a better future for the planet.