People & Planet First is a global verification system built for enterprises that put mission before profit, and it’s increasingly relevant for B Corps who want to signal a deeper commitment to purpose. In this episode, Rebecca Dray explains how the model works, why it was designed as a participatory alternative rather than a traditional certification, and what makes it attractive to organizations that care about long-term mission protection, not just impact reporting.
We dig into the five standards at the heart of the verification, including surplus reinvestment and legal safeguards that lock in purpose even through leadership changes, sale, or growth. Rebecca shares examples of companies that have already gone through the process, how co-optation is prevented, and why the flat $85 fee was a deliberate move to keep the system accessible to small and midsize enterprises, not just well-resourced brands.
For B Corps feeling the tension between growth, integrity, and continuing to seek a high bar, this conversation offers a useful look at what a complementary model can provide. If you’re considering how to deepen accountability, strengthen your ownership structure, or source more intentionally from mission-driven suppliers, this episode is a clear and timely starting point.
What You’ll Learn:
- Discover how Rebecca’s career shaped her mission for purpose-driven procurement.
- Learn about the People and Planet First verification system and why it was created.
- Unpack the five standards every enterprise must meet and how they were established.
- Explore the difference between forming a partnership and becoming a verified enterprise.
- Find out how directories help buyers find verified suppliers across an array of categories.
- Hear how transparency and community keep the movement trustworthy and inclusive.
Quotations
“Part of being a participatory verification system is that the standards are designed by the participants.” — Rebecca Dray [0:12:50]
“If you don’t meet [the People and Planet First] standards, it is a ‘How can we help you get there?’ So, it’s never really a ‘no,’ it’s a ‘never say never.’” — Rebecca Dray [0:21:40]
“The world is on fire. There are problems that we are seeing that are too big for any one organization to tackle alone.” — Rebecca Dray [0:29:49]
“It is fine to say that you want to consider things, it is very different to say you are prioritizing them and that you are embedding that into the governance of your organization.” — Rebecca Dray [0:39:20]
Links Mentioned in Today’s Episode:
- Rebecca Dray on LinkedIn: https://linkedin.com/in/rebecca-dray/
- Purchasing with Purpose: https://purchasingwithpurpose.org/
- People and Planet First: https://peopleandplanetfirst.org/
- Good Market: https://goodmarket.global/
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Gratitude
Thank you to Corey Lien, Nozomii Torii, and Kirsten G. Bryant for being our monthly contributors at Beyond the B!
