The concept of consumer conservation has been debated to death; we all know that spending money won't solve all of the world's problems. However, do not discount the power of a dollar and how every penny you spend can and should go to companies and organizations that are doing more than just selling sustainable goods.

"I think perhaps the most unique thing about our business is that it was envisioned, designed, and created specifically to solve a social and environmental need," says Mike Korchinsky, Founder and CEO of Wildlife Works. Recently launching the brand in the UK with a unique website, Wildlife Works has been a success here in the States since Mike started the San Francisco-based brand in 2001.

“We started from the premise that there is a certain very specific problem of conflict out there for wildlife and people in rural communities in the developing world that has to be solved to ensure the future of the wildlife, and we imagined the kind of company that would solve that problem, and then created that company. … Yes, our products are all organic cotton, but that is only one small element of our eco and social justice commitment.” This unique commitment includes a wildlife sanctuary the company started in Kenya, Africa. Near the protected land, Wildlife Works built their first clothing factory, employing local residents under strict fair wage policies. Not only do these people now have jobs, the company has also built an organic greenhouse, 16 classrooms, and provides their employees free medical coverage, including HIV/AIDS treatments. Up next are projects in British Columbia, Nepal, and Uganda. “Wherever wildlife is endangered by hunting, loss of habitat or other threats, we believe there's an opportunity for change - an opportunity to help create an enduring economic basis for wildlife survival.”

Thankfully, Wildlife Works understand that if you are going to start a clothing brand, you have to have some pretty nifty designs in mind. T-Shirts for men and women, featuring contemporary graphics promoting conversation and green living, start at $25; you’ll also find long-sleeve shirts, hoodies, and pants. Kids and babies are outfitted by the brand as well, starting at $20. ”We are definitely competing head to head with [major] fashion companies, [but] we just happen to be the greenest, fair tradest of them all!”