Public Goods

Overall Rating:

Conscious

Location:

USA

Public Goods

about the brand

Public Goods is a direct-to-consumer company offering a wide range of household, personal care, and grocery products.

certifications

learn more about these certifications*

Public Goods

Brand Rating & Evaluation

Overall Rating:

Conscious

Our ratings are based on a scale from 1 (Avoid) to 5 (Top Choice). See How We Rate

The Shifting Gaia rating evaluates brands based on sustainable practices, ingredients and materials, and social responsibility, among others. These are a few factors influencing this brand's score:

sustainability practices

Public Goods utilizes 100% recycled plastic for its bottles, which reducing reliance on virgin materials. At the same time however, continued use of plastic, even if recycled, is not ideal and still contributes to plastic waste. The brand's partnership with Eden Reforestation Projects ensures that a tree is planted for every order, contributing to global reforestation efforts and carbon sequestration. Public Goods also offers carbon-neutral shipping, offsetting emissions associated with product delivery to further reduce its environmental impact.

Additionally, Public Goods incorporates biodegradable packaging in specific product lines, such as disposable razors with eco-friendly handles and fully compostable packaging. Tree-free paper products and refillable options are available for a selection of items, which helps to promoting circularity and reduce single-use waste.

However, while these initiatives are commendable, the company provides limited information about the sourcing of raw materials, energy efficiency, or any broader carbon reduction strategies beyond shipping. More transparency in these areas would strengthen its commitment to environmental responsibility.

ingredients & materials

Public Goods emphasizes the use of wholesome ingredients, clearly labeling products to inform consumers. Offerings are free from parabens, sulfates, and other harmful chemicals, as well as unnecessary additives. Products like the Natural Multi-Surface Cleaner and Aloe Vera Gel exemplify this commitment in their use of coconut-derived surfactants, jasmine essential oils, and organic aloe vera as primary components.

Despite these efforts, some products still contain synthetic preservatives such as phenoxyethanol, which may be a concern for some consumers seeking entirely toxin-free formulations. Increased transparency about ingredient sourcing and the inclusion of synthetic elements would provide greater clarity in this category.

social responsibility

Public Goods engages in socially responsible practices by partnering with organizations like Eden Reforestation Projects to plant trees for every order, which supports environmental restoration and provides employment in impoverished communities. The company's commitment to cruelty-free products and vegan-friendly options further reflects its dedication to ethical standards.

However, there is limited publicly available information regarding fair labor practices, supplier relationships, or community engagement initiatives, suggesting an opportunity for enhanced transparency and social responsibility efforts.