A sustainability business founded by two Prestwich dads has earned a prestigious and globally recognised accreditation.

Play It Green is the first business in Bury to gain the B Corp certification, which measures a company’s social and environmental impact.

The accreditation is held by well known brands such as Patagonia, The Body Shop and The Guardian and meaning they operate to the highest ethical, environmental and social standards in their operations and governance.

The award-winning online subscription service and platform was founded by dads, Chris Thair, 45 and Richard Dickson, 51, and helps people and businesses be greener.

READ MORE: Restaurant boost for Ramsbottom after damaging hospitality closures

As it celebrates its second birthday, Play It Green has helped more than 50,000 people and 300 businesses lower their carbon footprint, planted in excess of a quarter of a million trees and gifted vital funds to 24 good causes.

Chris said: “We’re delighted to have B Corp status, as it is a globally recognised kitemark standard that instantly conveys a great message.

"That we operate to the highest ethical and governance standards, can be trusted, and are a great company to do business with.”

Richard added: “This is the ultimate certification for any business wishing to demonstrate their commitment to planet and people.

"It isn’t an easy process, which is the right way. Over a year after starting the process, I have now experienced one of the proudest moments of my business life.

"Hopefully this will strengthen Play It Green’s mission to make the world a better place!”

Play It Green is now part of a community of 6,279 businesses globally which are certified as B Corps.

The B Corp community in the UK, representing a broad cross section of industries and sizes, comprises over 1,300 companies.

READ MORE: Head for the Hills Festival returns to Bury in September

Play It Green gained a score of 106.6 from B Corp, putting them well above the average of 94 and in the top 10 per cent of companies globally.

Executive director of B Lab UK Chris Turner said: “We are delighted to welcome Play It Green to the B Corp community.

"This is a movement of companies who are committed to changing how business operates and believe business really can be a force for good.

"Welcoming Play It Green is an exciting moment because they have an opportunity to lead the way within the sustainability industry and Manchester.

"We and the rest of the B Corp community are really pleased to support Play It Green in paving the way for a new way of doing things”.

Local member firms include Manchester Central which has a Climate Positive Workforce with Play It Green. Levitex plant trees with every Pillow sold, Ikonic are undertaking a Scope 3 Carbon Footprint Report and other engage on the bookings, hospitality and event programmes.

Services focus on carbon footprint reduction however the unique selling point is that every pound in the subscription will also plant trees and re-gifts funds to the members chosen charity.

As part of the firm's subscription, each week members receive a tip on how they can lower their personal carbon footprint, a discount to a relating product and educational articles on sustainability including business best practice.

READ MORE: Bury: Funeral directors 'always here' for LGBTQ+ people

Subscribers can also access free marketing and net zero support for their business including policies, net-zero plans, template webpages and accreditation badges.

The B Corp certification addresses the entirety of a business’ operations and covers five key impact areas of Governance, Workers, Community, Environment and Customers.

The certification process is rigorous, with applicants required to reach a benchmark score of over 80 while providing evidence of socially and environmentally responsible practices relating to energy supplies, waste and water use, worker compensation, diversity and corporate transparency.

To complete the certification, the company will legally embed their commitment to purpose beyond profit in their company articles.