“Ecocide must be recognized as an international crime for protectection of our planet’s ecosystems, especially in the context of Ukraine’s ongoing struggle. The destruction of nature, as we have witnessed during the war, is not only a harm for the environment but also a huge impact on entire communities – an example of this is the ecocide at Kakhovka HPP. As a businesswoman with a degree in law, I understand the importance of holding those responsible for environmental harm accountable.
In addition, I’m fully convinced that global legislation will help to preserve our nature and guide businesses towards more ethical and environmentally-conscious practices.” Mariia Turchina, CEO of Griffon socks
Here is the amazing story of Griffon socks, written by Rinata Kazak, Lecturer, Department of Thematic Studies–Environmental Change, Centre for Climate Science and Policy Research, CSPR, Linköping University, Sweden.
From Kharkiv with care: Griffon Socks’ environmental efforts amidst war.
In the first days of the war, the team, along with Mariia and Denys, sheltered in a bombshelter with their young daughter. With stock still in their Kharkiv warehouse, the brand kept accepting orders, donating 100% of turnover in the first month to the “Come Back Alive” fund. It took a month to fulfill those orders, and 10,000 pairs of plain socks were donated to the Armed Forces of Ukraine – a practice they continue today.
Determined to resume operations, they decided to keep their warehouse and office in Kharkiv. In 2022, they split storage across two locations to reduce risk of bombing. With their Kharkiv production shut down and the Rubizhne facility destroyed by a missile strike, they shifted manufacturing to Kyiv, Dnipro, Ternopil, and Kharkiv. Today, production is at 20 – 25% of 2021 levels.
Griffon Socks continues supporting Wildlife and the Environment
Despite challenging wartime conditions, this brand remains resilient and continues to uphold its commitment to eco-protection in its campaigns. Specifically, they have launched initiatives aimed at contributing to environmental conservation.
- In fall 2022, the company launched the Ukrainian Animals Box, a special edition featuring unique designs inspired by Ukraine’s wildlife. 30% of the profits from each box sold were donated to the Wild Animal Rescue Center, which rescues animals from circuses, private zoos, and war-affected areas. Learn more about the initiative
- In spring 2024, the company introduced the Askania-Nova Box, drawing attention to the endangered Falz-Fein Biosphere Reserve in Ukraine. The reserve has suffered from wildfires caused by missile strikes during Russian invasion, threatening its unique flora and fauna. Unexploded ordnance in the area continues to pose a serious risk. More info about Askania-Nova Box and read more about Askania-Nova Biosphere Reserve
- 300 pairs of socks and 50% of the company’s turnover were donated to the Rescue Now team, which embarked on a humanitarian mission to aid local communities after the devastating Kakhovka HPP explosion. This catastrophe not only triggered a humanitarian crisis but also resulted in an act of ecocide, flooding vast areas, contaminating water sources, and causing irreversible damage to ecosystems. More about the initiative
- Since the war in Ukraine began in 2014, this brand has been committed to social and environmental causes. In fall 2020, the company launched the Save the Planet Box to raise awareness of global environmental issues. A portion of each sale was donated to the Chernobyl Radiation and Ecological Biosphere Reserve, which was severely affected by wildfires at the time. More about the initiative / Chernobyl Reserve’s official website
Despite the challenges of war, Griffon Socks continues to prove that a small business can make a big impact—not just in supporting Ukraine’s resilience, but also in protecting its environment and wildlife.
For more information about these initiatives and the company’s activities, please contact the founder, Mariia Turchina, via email or phone: turchinamasha@gmail.com / +380981084277
Photos taken by Kate Stremoukhova (https://stremoukhova.com).
