Winsor & Newton, a popular supplier of art paints, brushes, and tools, has become a certified B Corporation, committing themselves to wise practices promoting sustainability. The B Corp certification is a mark of approval for ethical practices that reflects a company’s commitment to the environment, diversity, fair wages, and waste management, among other considerations. Winsor & Newton managed to become the first art company to be B Corp certified, despite the challenges in shifting their common machinery and processes to meet the requirements of the certification, which is not typical in their industry and product line.
Helly Summerly, Global Brand Director for Winsor & Newton, said the company’s core values, which also colored its founder’s vision, helped make the certification a perfect fit. Summerly said that “Winsor & Newton was founded by an artist and a scientist. The B Corp certification is a journey, not a destination, and there’s also growth in the creative process. We think art is really important for society to grow, and sustainability is part of that. That involves sustaining artists and art, too.” Colart, the parent company of Winsor & Newton, partnered with Hospital Rooms, which employs professional artists to paint mental health wards, as a way to help promote art and its therapeutic effects.
In addressing industry-wide challenges in meeting B Corp’s circularity objectives while preserving artistic heritage, Colart Group Sustainability Manager Ajita Chamberlin said, “Promoting circularity in the fine art materials industry requires educating artists, suppliers and consumers about sustainable practices and the environmental impact of their choices. Some companies might not be fully aware of the benefits of B Corp certification or the importance of sustainability practices, especially if they operate in a traditionally less environmentally conscious sector.” To promote best practices, Colart has reduced hazardous waste by 50% by 2025, and the use of recycled materials has also increased in packaging, all while abandoning freight transport by air and turning to green energy to power its UK and French manufacturing facilities.
The B Corp movement is growing, with more businesses pursuing certification in recent years. As the world becomes more aware of the challenges facing our planet and its inhabitants, commitment to sustainability and ethical practices within industry and commerce is becoming increasingly important
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