At The Bear Factory, sustainability isn’t a buzzword—it’s a responsibility. As stewards of both the environment and ethical business practices, we believe that true corporate leadership involves speaking up when it matters most. That’s why we’re proud to stand behind Michigan’s proposed Pollution Cleanup Act, also known as the Polluter Pay legislation.

A Call for Corporate Accountability

Michigan has long battled legacy pollution issues—from contaminated groundwater to abandoned industrial sites that continue to impact surrounding communities. The new legislative package aims to ensure that polluters, not taxpayers or future generations, carry the burden of cleanup and environmental restoration.

While environmental advocacy groups have long championed these reforms, this moment marks a turning point: members of the business community are standing in solidarity, calling for accountability, transparency, and responsibility.

Our Leadership Speaks Out

Our own Jimmy Banish, Chief Operations Officer of The Bear Factory, testified in favor of the legislation, echoing our values of integrity and environmental stewardship:

“The costs of pollution should fall on polluters, not on taxpayers, ethical businesses, or future generations. Responsible companies adapt under pressure, and it’s not fair to allow companies to artificially inflate their profit margins by evading accountability. This legislation doesn’t target business; it targets pollution.”

Jimmy’s words speak to the core of what we believe: doing business shouldn’t come at the expense of public health or the planet.

Why This Matters to Us

As a company rooted in sustainable manufacturing and conscious design, we’ve worked tirelessly to align our operations with environmental best practices—from sourcing eco-friendly materials to minimizing our carbon footprint. Supporting the Pollution Cleanup Act is a natural extension of that mission.

But beyond business, it’s personal. Our team lives here. Our families drink this water, breathe this air, and hike these trails. Clean communities and thriving ecosystems aren’t luxuries—they’re the foundation of a just and vibrant future.

Activism in Action: What Comes Next

We encourage fellow Michigan businesses to step forward and join this conversation—not out of obligation, but out of conviction. Regulatory change is most effective when supported by those it impacts, and our voice as a business community can help shape policy that protects both our environment and economy.

The Bear Factory will continue advocating for laws and reforms that uphold environmental justice and long-term sustainability. Because when we invest in the health of our communities, we invest in the future of our business too.