Who knew a pair of socks could plant trees, provide clean drinking water or protect elephants? Conscious Step makes all of these social impacts possible through the purchase of their socks.
No matter who we are, we can always take a Conscious Step towards helping the issues that matter to us. With so many environmental, health, and humanitarian crises in the world today, it can be easy to feel helpless and overwhelmed, not knowing how or where to help. But sometimes, it can be as easy as buying a pair of socks.
Conscious Step ethical socks were created to bring awareness to the problems we face — and to the organisations combating them. But Conscious Step isn't focused on awareness alone. For every sock purchase, they donate to an organisation aimed at a particular cause, and you get to choose the cause.
Article first published in October 2020 and updated in August 2025 to include latest information .
The story behind Conscious Step
Conscious Step began with three friends — Prashant Mehta, Hassan Ahmad, and Adam Long — who shared a vision that everyday choices could make the world better.
For Prashant, the idea of giving back was instilled early. As a child, his weekly allowance always came with an envelope to donate to people in need. This small but powerful ritual reminded him that, no matter his own circumstances, there were always others he could help.
Later, while travelling and working in Sydney, Prashant noticed how willing people were to give when it was made convenient, like dropping spare change at the checkout. At the same time, Hassan was completing an internship with the United Nations World Health Organization, where he learned about the Millennium Development Goals — now known as the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) — a global framework for tackling poverty, inequality, and environmental challenges.
One night, Prashant had a dream about socks that could change the world. He shared it with Hassan and their friend Adam, and together they built the foundation of Conscious Step: a purpose-driven company where every pair of socks has a measurable, positive impact.
As Hassan explains, socks were the perfect choice — everyone needs them, but there’s little brand loyalty. That means consumers can easily switch to a brand that aligns with their values, without compromising on practicality.
From that dream, Conscious Step has grown into a global movement. But it’s still rooted in that simple belief: that even ordinary purchases can create extraordinary purpose.
What makes Conscious Step socks different
Lots of brands call themselves “sustainable,” but Conscious Step goes further. Their socks are:
- Made with organic cotton: Every pair is GOTS-certified organic, protecting farmers, ecosystems, and waterways from harmful chemicals.
- Fairtrade certified: The entire supply chain is certified, ensuring farmers and workers are paid fairly, no child labour is used, and safe working conditions are maintained.
- Vegan and cruelty-free: No animal fibres, no testing — just ethical fibres and kind choices.
- High quality: These aren’t gimmicky socks sold just for the “joke.” The designs may be fun, but quality comes first. They’re soft, durable and designed for everyday wear.
By supporting small cotton farmers and paying fair wages in India, Conscious Step ensures that every purchase uplifts people as well as the planet.
Causes these socks support
Each pair of socks is tied to a specific cause, so you can literally wear your values.
You can find the latest range of Conscious Step designs and organisation to support here >
Socks that Protect Bees
A pair of socks that support more than just your feet. Each pair supports Pollinator Partnership, supporting their mission to build habitat and awareness for pollinators which are critical to food security as well as human and planetary health. Gorgeous gift socks with purpose.
Socks that Plant Trees
These funky leaf patterned socks plant 3 trees in Uganda supporting Trees for the Future. Help to support their mission to improve the livelihoods of farmers and revitalise degraded land.
Socks that Protect Oceans
These socks support Oceana, the largest advocacy organisation that aims to make oceans more biodiverse, by winning policy victories that are significant to marine life.
Why Biome loves Conscious Step
At Biome, we choose products that meet strict ethical standards — but also carry a story worth sharing. Conscious Step ticks both boxes. Their socks are proof that sustainability doesn’t need to be boring or bland — it can be colourful, fun, and meaningful.
When you shop Conscious Step socks at Biome, you’re supporting not just the causes behind the brand, but also a local Australian business that has championed ethical retail for more than 20 years.
Socks that make the perfect gift
Everyone needs socks. But not everyone’s socks change the world. That’s what makes Conscious Step such a thoughtful gift — they’re useful, stylish, and packed with purpose.
Whether you’re gifting to a friend, family member, or colleague, there’s a design (and cause) to suit them. It’s the kind of gift that starts conversations and spreads impact far beyond the wrapping paper.
Looking for more meaningful presents? Browse our Australian-made eco gifts
How to care for your socks
Conscious Step socks are made to last, but a little care goes a long way:
- Wash gently in cold or warm water.
- Avoid bleach and harsh detergents. Use gentle, natural laundry detergent.
- Line dry rather than tumble dry to preserve the fibres.
Organic cotton socks soften with each wash — so your socks will feel better the longer you own them.
Frequently asked questions
Are Conscious Step socks really Fairtrade?
Yes, every pair is Fairtrade certified, from cotton farmer to finished product.
Are they organic?
Yes, Conscious Step socks are made with GOTS-certified organic cotton.
Do the socks actually support charities?
Absolutely. Each pair is tied to a specific cause and charity partner, with measurable outcomes like trees planted or months of clean water supplied.
Are they just novelty socks?
Not at all. The designs are fun, but the quality comes first. They’re durable, soft, and long-lasting.
Where can I buy them in Australia?
Biome is a proud Australian stockist, both online and in-store in Brisbane.
Final word
Conscious Step began with a dream and three friends who believed the world could be better. Today, every pair of socks carries that vision forward — whether it’s protecting oceans, educating children, or planting trees.
When you pull on your socks each morning, you may not think about changing the world. But with Conscious Step, you can.
Women's Socks
Men's Socks
Kid's Socks
Biome offers a fabulous range of mindful and sustainable socks that are organic, or Australian made. Buy all socks online here >
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Choosing the most sustainable socks
What is the most sustainable fabric?
Why organic cotton is the best for kids pyjamas
