By: Ethan Cao

“When you have a whole in the outdoors, you realize you have a sense of responsibility to protect these wild places” – Yvon Chouinard, owner of Patagonia and activists is taking action to combat this terrible problem. Chouinard took a massive risk to help; he has done a sustainable job in ensuring that his responsibility in keeping the earth safe and healthy

Yvon Chouinard lives in Jackson, Wyoming. Since the 1960s, he has been a great fan of climbing. Although over 70 years old, Chouinard is a very athletic and energetic man with an admiration for nature and living beings. He wishes to play his role as a citizen to fulfil his deepest dreams to protect all wild places. This belief, along with his passion for outdoor sports led him to found a company, Patagonia. Patagonia sells outdoor clothing and supplies and is very fastidious about the materials they use for their products. The company has seen rocketing sales, and Yvon has been making billions.

Yvon’s family had many discussions of whether they should sell the company. At first, the family believed that the new owner might not be as committed as they were to climate change and nature. However, after consideration, Chouinard decided to give his Company away. 2% of Patagonia will belong to the Patagonia Purpose Trust. This group will still be managed entirely by Mr. Chouinard’s family. The other 98% will go to a non-profit that fights climate change called the Holdfast Collective. This group will join Yvon and his family in the fight to protect wildlife.

After accomplishing his goal, Chouinard says, “I feel great relief that I’ve put my life in order.” He also said, “Now I could die tomorrow, and the company will continue doing the right thing for the next 50 years.” Now that the company is safe, Yvon will live happily, and so will climate change and all those living creatures; big and small on earth.