“I wanted to make a product that could be used by the whole human race and potentially solve some real problems,” Baker continues. This commitment to design as an agent of positive change is exemplified by their signature product: a waterproof, industrial-strength tote called the LastBag. It’s an everyday product made so sturdily that “it’s the last bag you’ll ever need,” Donovan says. "We truly believe," Baker says,"that design can create better systems and better outcomes" for both the product we make and the people we serve.

The eqpd LastBag™ is the perfect solution — a breathable bag made of 100-percent recycled mesh in a basket-like weave. Small spaces let air in, filter odor out and drain away water.

The people at eqpd believe that one of the ways you make a truly eco-friendly product is to make a product that never needs to be thrown away or replaced.

We all have the ability to do great work. Find your interest and learn as much as you can about it. Study it on your own. Apprentice with a mentor. Practice... Ultimately, use your skills and passion to make the world a better place.

“I knew I had to make it here,” he said. “To export all that opportunity to an overseas factory would be missing out on one of the biggest benefits of a successful design – jobs. The government doesn’t encourage this, and the tax code doesn’t either, but it is the right thing to do if you believe in the pride of making things where you live and the profound effect that can have.”

Baker began to look closely at other people’s products, and he wasn’t thrilled. “Design had gotten diluted,” he pointed out. “Some things looked expensive but fell apart, some things were expensive but were cheaply made.” He remembers challenging himself, “What object can I make that fulfills a greater mission?” He listed his mission criteria: using design to solve real-world issues, creating a sustainable product, and keeping jobs in America.

Evergreen teamed up with Methow-based manufacturing company eqpd — pronounced like “equipped” — to offer membership and an Evergreen LastBag for $60, with the entire profit going to Evergreen.