CRAFTING A SUSTAINABLE FUTURE

Ames is committed to sustainability as a holistic business model, aiming to create economic value through social empowerment and respect for the environment. Ames products are not just pieces of furniture, but a true homage to the depth of human nature, blending traditional craftsmanship with modern design. This fusion creates a narrative that respects our collective heritage and celebrates the vibrancy of our future. As part of the UN Global Compact, we commit to annual progress reporting, emphasizing product durability through high-quality craftsmanship and traditional techniques, from harvesting to manufacturing.

 Empowering Indigenous Communities

Ames significantly contributes to social sustainability by fostering partnerships that priorities the welfare, independence, and cultural integrity of artisan and indigenous communities. In our sustainability efforts, Ames is dedicated to preserving the rich cultural heritage and traditional knowledge of these groups. Through collaborative design projects, we ensure that artisans are not merely participants but equal partners whose voices and expertise shape the final product. By integrating traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design, Ames plays a vital role in keeping alive the cultures, heritages, and ancestral knowledge that might otherwise be at risk of fading.

The company's commitment to social impact extends beyond the creation of unique design objects; it is a testament to their respect for the diversity of human expression and their dedication to empowering communities through ethical practices. In doing so, Ames ensures that the legacy of these artisans is celebrated and preserved for future generations.

 Combatting illicit practices and biodiversity loss

Ames plays a pivotal role in providing alternative employment opportunities to communities in regions historically dominated by coca cultivation, an industry that often leaves few choices for the local youth. Many young people find themselves ensnared in the coca business due to a lack of viable economic alternatives, the allure of quick financial gains, and sometimes, the pressure from local narco-trafficking groups. This involvement not only perpetuates a cycle of illicit activities but also contributes to deforestation and biodiversity loss, further impoverishing the very ecosystems these communities depend on.

By reviving and promoting traditional craftsmanship, Ames offers a sustainable and ethical alternative. The natural growth and harvesting of materials for these crafts do not demand the extensive land use changes required by coca cultivation, thereby helping to combat deforestation and biodiversity loss. Furthermore, these traditional practices provide profitable and significantly safer job opportunities compared to the perilous conditions associated with narco-trafficking. Through the global marketing of artisan products, Ames demonstrates the potential for traditional crafts to sustain communities, showcasing Colombia's rich history, culture, and natural beauty to the world.

This approach not only provides immediate economic benefits but also sows the seeds for a long-term transformation. By investing in the cultural heritage and natural resources of Colombia through traditional craftsmanship, Ames aspires to redirect the country's trajectory away from its association with drugs. The company's work with artisans and the international success of their products position Ames as a pioneer in leveraging Colombia's artisanal heritage as a tool for social change, offering hope for a future where the nation is celebrated for its contributions to art, culture, and environmental stewardship.

 Women Empowerment

Ames' commitment to social impact extends significantly to empowering women, both within its corporate structure and across its artisanal supply chain. With three out of four executive positions at Ames held by women, the company sets a powerful example of female leadership and decision-making in the business world. Beyond the boardroom, Ames actively supports female artisans and intermediaries, like Nubia, who plays a crucial role in sourcing the highest quality sheep wool from reliable farmers. This emphasis on female empowerment ensures that women are not only participants but also leaders in the value chain, from material procurement to global sales. By prioritizing women's involvement and leadership, Ames contributes to gender equality, provides economic opportunities for women in rural communities, and champions the role of women in preserving and promoting traditional crafts.