Sustainability

At Trailsprout, we want to make it simple for families to choose better gear for their kids; gear that’s kinder to the planet and safer for little adventurers. That’s why we’ve introduced the "Little Sprout" label.

When you see this label, it means the product goes above and beyond our baseline standards. Every brand we work with must already meet our Code of Conduct - covering human and labour rights, environmental protection, and the rejection of forced or child labour. But with the Little Sprout, we push things further.

A product can only earn the label if...

  • It avoids all of our strict no-go's (the red flags we will never allow), and
  • It ticks at least four of our positive criteria (the things we look for to support a healthier planet and fairer future).

It doesn’t mean the product is 100% perfect (few things are), but it does mean it’s one of the more responsible options out there.

No-Go Criteria

Products cannot be labelled with the Little Sprout if they include or rely on:

  • PFAS (“forever chemicals”)
  • Biocides
  • PVC or BPA
  • Flame retardants
  • Disposable, single-use designs
  • Production in high-risk countries with poor labour protections
  • Oxybenzone in sunscreen
  • Aluminium in direct food contact
  • Tritium or radioactive components

If any one of these is present, it’s a hard no.

Positive Criteria

To qualify for the Little Sprout, a product must meet at least four of the following:

  • Made with preferred natural materials
  • Uses recycled materials
  • Better chemical management
  • Transparent and traceable supply chain
  • Designed for circularity (repairable, reusable, recyclable, or take-back schemes)
  • Reduced ecological footprint
  • Demonstrates social responsibility
  • Made in Australia or New Zealand
  • Backed by clear social or environmental performance data
  • Supports a charitable purpose or offsets its impact

How We Make the Call

Sometimes, we need to rely on the brands themselves to share information about their products. But also, we just don't take their word for it. With years of industry experience, site visits, and factory tours under our belts, we’ve seen first-hand what’s behind the spin.

We know how to spot greenwashing when we see it, and we combine supplier data with our own judgement to give you the clearest, most honest picture we can.

Why It Matters

Kids deserve safe, well-made gear. Parents deserve clear choices. And together, we all deserve a world where outdoor adventures don’t come at the planet’s expense.

With the Little Sprout, you’ll know which products are making a real effort to do better... for kids, communities, and the environment. Look for the little sprout!