Kate Williams, CEO of 1% for the Planet: Turning Business into a Global Force for Environmental Good
- Admin
- Oct 27
- 2 min read
Kate Williams, Chief Executive Officer of 1% for the Planet, joins the conversation to share how a simple idea—businesses and individuals committing 1% of annual revenues to environmental causes—has evolved into a powerful global movement.
Founded by Yvon Chouinard (Patagonia) and Craig Matthews, 1% for the Planet has inspired thousands of companies across more than 100 countries to give back to the planet. With over $820 million certified in lifetime giving, the organization is on track to reach its first billion in donations.
Kate explains how the model works: from certifying members’ contributions to connecting them with vetted environmental partners across four key impact areas—Just Economies, Resilient Communities, Rights to Nature, and Conservation & Restoration. She discusses the philosophy behind giving from revenues, not profits, why that matters for lasting impact, and how companies of all sizes can integrate sustainability into their core operations.
Listeners will hear about:
How 1% for the Planet certifies and supports its global network of businesses and nonprofits
The creative ways companies balance purpose and profit, including in-kind and volunteer contributions
Why strong branding and credible certification are essential to scaling environmental change
Lessons in building community, trust, and momentum across thousands of members and partners
Kate’s personal journey from outdoor educator to environmental leader
About Kate Williams
Kate Williams is CEO of 1% for the Planet, a global movement that inspires action and commitment so our planet and future generations thrive.
In more than a decade of leadership, Kate has scaled 1% for the Planet’s impact to more than $800 million in certified giving to environmental solutions.
A dedicated changemaker, Kate was a 2025 MO 100 Top Impact CEO and 2025 Real Leaders Top Keynote Speaker, and received Chief’s 2024 New Era of Leadership Award.
She’s also a mom to two grown children and an avid trail runner, living in Vermont with her husband and their dog.