Earth Day: Why the Butterfly Mark Matters at Miller Harris

At Earth Day, we’re reminded that meaningful change comes from consistent, transparent action – not perfection. At Miller Harris, that belief is embedded in how we create, source, and evolve. One of the clearest signals of this commitment is our Butterfly Mark – a trusted symbol of verified sustainability.

What is the Butterfly Mark?

Awarded by Positive Luxury, the Butterfly Mark is an independent certification recognising luxury brands that meet the highest standards of sustainability. It is the only assessment designed specifically to shape a more sustainable future for both the luxury industry and its consumers.

But this isn’t a one-time achievement. The certification is rigorous, expert-led, and reviewed every two years – ensuring that brands continue to improve rather than stand still. It evaluates performance across environmental impact, supply chain ethics, circularity, governance, and social responsibility.

In short, it represents accountability, measurable progress, and a long-term commitment to doing better.

What it means for Miller Harris

We’ve proudly held the Butterfly Mark since 2018, and during our most recent recertification in April 2024, we achieved an overall score of 68% – 36% above the certification standard.

For us, the Butterfly Mark is more than a badge. It reflects how we operate as a brand:

• Starting with nature: Since our founding 26 years ago, we have created fragrances beginning with natural ingredients, prioritising ethical and sustainable sourcing.

• Traceability and responsibility: We work with suppliers who support their communities, ensure ingredient traceability, and actively assess and improve biodiversity impact.

• Circular innovation: Through our M.H Upcycled initiative, we give new life to materials such as oakwood, cedarwood, rose, patchouli and green mandarin – transforming by-products into beautiful fragrance components.

  For example, upcycled oakwood – used in Hydra Figue – originates from wine barrel production in France and is PEFC certified, supporting sustainable forest management.

• Lower impact production: We use recyclable packaging sourced from the UK and Europe and continue to reduce emissions through efficient production methods.

• Product integrity: All our products are vegan and free from phthalates, artificial colours, parabens, formaldehydes, SLS and SLES.

• People and community: We support initiatives tackling inequality and foster an inclusive workplace where every voice is valued.

Why it matters

In an industry where sustainability claims can be difficult to verify, the Butterfly Mark provides clarity and trust. It tells you that our progress is independently assessed, our claims are backed by evidence, and our journey is ongoing.

We also believe in being honest about that journey. Sustainability is complex, and while we are proud of the steps we’ve taken, we know there is always more to do. Transparency – about both successes and shortcomings – is essential to real progress.

Part of a bigger movement

Through the Butterfly Mark, we are part of a global community of “Real Changemakers” – brands committed to driving meaningful change for people and nature. Alongside our memberships with organisations such as CTPA (The Cosmetic, Toiletry and Perfumery Association), The Fragrance Foundation and Walpole, we continue to collaborate, learn, and push the standards of what responsible luxury can look like.

Looking ahead

Our goal is clear: to operate as close to zero environmental impact as possible. It’s ambitious, and it won’t happen overnight – but it guides every decision we make.

As we mark Earth Day, the Butterfly Mark serves as both recognition and reminder: that sustainability is not a destination, but a continuous process of improvement.

To explore our full progress and commitments, you can read our latest Sustainability Manifesto and view our Positive Luxury report card.

People, Planet, Perfume