IGI, the first gemological laboratory to commit to carbon neutrality, is working to unite the industry with a new campaign focused on sustainability. IGI’s “Jewelers on a Mission” initiative invites eligible stores to complete a brief application describing why sustainability is important to their businesses and communities. The winner will receive up to $5,000 in credits toward becoming carbon neutral, and all participants will receive IGI’s playbook and road map for improving sustainability efforts. Jewelers are invited to visit igi.org/sustainability to enter.

Jewelers on a Mission

In addition to providing entrants with guidelines for improvement on sustainability issues, IGI plans to share news about the campaign and the winning participant in press releases, on social media accounts, and on the IGI GemBlog.

For audiences in the millennial demographic, it’s crucial for jewelers to demonstrate that they align with them on social issues. According to 5WPR’s 2020 Consumer Culture Report, 83% of young consumers want companies to share their values, and 76% want CEOs to speak out on issues they care about.

“Businesses have a tremendous responsibility to be a part of the solution to address global emissions,” said IGI North America president Avi Levy. “According to the Paris climate accord, businesses can account for 60% of emissions cuts by 2030. At the Institute, we are forward-thinking, committed to leading the jewelry industry to a sustainable future, and passionate about helping others work to cultivate a livable planet.”

The Carbon-Neutral Seal

IGI has chosen SCS Global (SCS), developer of the first natural diamond and lab-grown diamond sustainability certifications, as a campaign partner. Since 1984, SCS has been advancing sustainable development goals across multiple sectors through auditing, testing, and certification, and developing leadership standards to create a framework for continuous improvement. Once carbon-neutral, the “Jewelers on a Mission” winner will receive the SCS carbon neutrality seal of approval on their IGI reports and marketing assets.

Preserving the Planet

In June, IGI became the first gemological institute to commit to carbon neutrality, joining the Responsible Jewelry Council (RJC), International Precious Metals Institute (IPMI), and Initiative for Responsible Mining Assurance (IRMA) in an association with SCS Global Services (SCS).

IGI looks forward to sharing steps jewelers can take to help preserve the environment.

“We are thrilled to be in a position where our experiences with environmentalism can help other businesses, which is why we decided every applicant will receive IGI’s playbook and road map to improving sustainability efforts,” said Levy. “We want everyone in the industry to have the knowledge and insight needed to go green, and we know the best way forward is working together.”