Tag: conscious shopping

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These 16 Successful Companies Are Changing The World

corp b
Table Of Contents
  1. Changing the world today for tomorrow
  2. Arbonne
  3. Patagonia
  4. Ben and Jerry’s
  5. The Body Shop
  6. Vita CoCo
  7. Fresh Prep
  8. Fairware
  9. The Etho
  10. Seventh Generation
  11. Grove Collaborative
  12. Numi tea
  13. Nada Grocery
  14. Danone
  15. All Birds
  16. Pela

Changing the world will only happen now if we learn to be conscious shoppers… But, it’s not that easy when you can’t tell who is doing what! But I’ll tell you that learning who and what will fill you with purpose. Shopping therapy!

We need to know what companies are trying to make a difference now more than ever. So let’s get started… The Certified B Corporation is a system that identifies a companies efforts to change the world.

Most of us have never heard of this type of certification because you rarely find it in advertising. A certified B Corp is a company that works to make a profit but works with something called B Lab. The B stands for Benefit and B Lab is a nonprofit company!

Changing the world today for tomorrow

Its job is to measure a company’s social and environmental standards. It holds for-profit companies accountable. So these companies must meet rigorous standards to keep their certification. It’s basically like a USDA certification for the business. In a world where there are lots of claims that stretch the truth, it’s nice to know who to support.

Marketers look for the shiniest adjectives that describe their products. The warm and fuzzy phrases bring a welcoming reception which ultimately increases sales. However, the B Corp qualifies companies that want more than profits. They want to do better. These companies are working to be wholesome, safe and properly labeled. They’re working hard at changing the world!

Certification begins with a test that asks a bunch of questions related to a companies impact. It studies the impact on employees, customers, community and the environment. To qualify a company must score a minimum of 80 points. If they’re really good they can score up to 200 points. Once the test is passed a company will then follow up with supporting documents and provide a background check.

There are 3,243 B Corp companies in 71 countries and many are based in Canada and the U.S. So here are the 16 companies that stand out. See how they’re working hard every day at changing the world.

Arbonne

This company is in the top 25 for the largest companies worldwide to become certified. It is working to become transparent and increase its sustainability. It is non-GMO certified and their health products are gluten-free. They’ll recycle their packaging taking it back once its life is over.

Patagonia

This clothing company is also part of the circular community. It has developed a program to reuse previously worn clothing. So far It has donated 100 million dollars to environmental groups. Together they’re trying to help slow climate change. Their mission includes “building the best product, to cause no unnecessary harm, and use business to inspire and implement solutions to the environmental crisis.

Ben and Jerry’s

Ben and Jerry’s ice cream is trying to prevent social injustices in local and international communities. They’re replicating models of economic justice that have proved to be sustainable. Their mission is to make improve the community’s quality of life. They figure it’s just as important as their financial goals. Wow! If you see this company in the Dairy aisle support them by voting with your dollars!

The Body Shop

The Body Shop is a global beauty brand that has been around since the ’70s. This is the first company that pioneered “fair trade” in the cosmetic industry. It’s committed to social issues such as human trafficking, climate change, deforestation, whaling, and animal testing. They’re not just a brand with sweet-smelling products. They have been a long-standing advocate for positive change in the world.

Dr. Bronners

The first time I read Dr. Bronner’s bottle I thought he’s maybe a little crazy. You’ll have to read it to believe it! However, soap products are fantastic! They’re USDA organic, Non-GMO, not tested on animals and fair for life. Fair for Life is a program that certifies the supply chain for fair trade and fair wages.

Vita CoCo

Vita Coco is a New York-based company working with farmers in Brazil, the Philippines, and Indonesia. They know that farming is hard work and harvesting coconuts is no exception. So, they’ve developed educational programs for the community and also invest in their farms. They don’t like to waste the coconut either. Once the coconut water is extracted they use the meat for their coconut oil and the shell as fuel for factories.

Fresh Prep

This local Vancouver B.C. company puts together meal kits for families on the go! They source their ingredients from local farms and store the food in reusable containers. The food is designed by Chefs and this company uses beef raised without any unnecessary antibiotics or hormones. Plus, the fish is caught wild and certified by Ocean Wise.

Fairware

Fairware is a merchandising company that helps companies offer sustainable promotional products for their business. They do the homework to find ethical and sustainable products so busy companies don’t need too. Their clients include Mountain Equipment Co-op, Vega, Patagonia, Natures Path, seventh generation, and UNICEF.

The Etho

Look no further for an all you need an ethical market place. Ethos is an online platform that works with companies with ethical perspectives. For the most part, they offer environmentally friendly products, safe working conditions, and sustainable wages. This platform has also claimed to help 100 million women out of poverty! Amazing! You can shop everything from clothing, home goods and grocery items at Etho’s Marketplace.

Seventh Generation

This company is the leading green household and personal care brand in North America. They use recycled material in their packaging and have reduced their manufacturing process’s carbon footprint. Another great aspect of this company is that all of its products are USDA certified bio-based and not tested on animals. Overall the plastic packaging comes from 100% post-consumer recycled material!

Grove Collaborative

Changing the world comes easy when you buy a subscription with this eCommerce platform. It collaborates with many other ethical companies with the same principles. These companies include Method, Seventh Generation, and Burt’s Bees. As a result, they make sure their products are cruelty-free, made with plants and contain only natural fragrances. They’re constantly looking at ways to reduce the plastic in their packaging. Plus their ethical supply chain and sustainable material set this company apart.


Numi tea

Their teas are beautiful not just because of their taste but also for their ethics! Numi is certified as a fair-trade company with fair labor practices. It’s just crazy that there NEEDS to be a third party organization to determine if people are being paid fairly. They hold themselves accountable for their supply chain and sustainable farming practices. Each tea is Organic and Non-GMO. So it’s easy to see that this company is a worthy Corp B company.

Nada Grocery

This grocer deserves a nod. Hello Brianne! She’s a Marine Biologist that has seen first hand the swirling mass of plastic in our oceans. She knows that much of the waste has come from our very own kitchens. Her goal was to see the reduction in food packaging. So she set up a shop in Vancouver B.C. She’s made waves in the grocery aisle since all of the products offered in her store are zero waste.

Danone

The Danone Canada brand is one of the largest consumer companies in the Corp B lineup! Their priorities include climate change, sourcing sustainable ingredients and improving their packaging. It’s a fine balance between profits and the social/environmental factors we face today. Therefore this brand makes it in the top 4 ethical dairy brands. Support them over the other brands in the dairy aisle.

All Birds

This shoe company holds itself accountable for its carbon footprint! Climate change has overrun our lives and they’ve realized something needs to be done now. So they’re limiting, measuring, offsetting, and reducing their CO2. By doing this they hope that they’ll one day be a player in changing the world. For this reason, they’ve made a goal to become net-zero by 2030. They’ll do this by paying a self-imposed carbon tax!

Pela

This company is awesome so I purchased a phone case from Pela. It’s incredible and I can’t believe how durable a biodegradable item can be! The vision of this company is to create a plastic-free future. They’re working towards building products that encourage a waste-free lifestyle. The sky is the limit and the future looks a little brighter with products like these. Next time you’re looking for a phone case or sunglasses look no further!

Generally speaking, these are some of the companies looking for climate solutions. The companies that we’ve talked about here are good, ethical companies working to make a difference in the world. Support these companies to give the planet a better chance for recovery. Align your wallet with these companies and vote with your dollars. In essence, we can make a difference. Giving them your support offers them a higher competitive advantage over the competition.

It’s time to take a more holistic approach and start inventing new ways to replace synthetic chemicals and materials with natural alternatives. Communities around the world have an opportunity to harvest Planet, People Products. Support small organizations that are working to support these small villages, local artisans and grass root organizations. Do you want to make a difference in someone’s life in a meaningful way? Buy products from small companies working with villagers. These Seagrass market bags are a good way to support the artisans in Vietnam. It’s our pledge to work together to create a more natural, healthy and Eco-friendly planet.

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How The Climate Emergency Affects Your Money

money can't save their future

The climate crisis has put the world`s leaders on center stage. Their passive inaction on climate issues has created a movement. This social unrest has cast them into the public spotlight. To cope with the stress caused by the scrutinization from the public eye leaders have declared a CLIMATE EMERGENCY!

In 2016, the world declared the first climate emergency. Since then 25 countries have taken up the challenge. They`ve accepted and are now willing to mitigate the damage done. In 1979, Scientists held the first climate change summit. It then took 36 years for Governments to come together and prepare an agreement.

194 parties agreed to take action that would reduce threats related to global warming. For instance, rise in sea levels, drought, intense fires, and so on. So it’s no wonder why people are wondering what do we do now? What does this mean for me? How will the government`s actions prevent a catastrophe?

The Climate Emergency

Climate Projections

In the past 12,000 years, Earth’s temperatures adjusted plus or minus one degree. Yet, in the past 100 years, our planet’s atmosphere is on track for a projected four-degree warming trend. Scientists believe the earth had experienced this temperature 4 million years ago. But we don’t know what the world looked like back then.

The Intergovernmental Panel of Climate change states that any temperature rise over 4 degrees will lead to “substantial species extinction”. By 2100, they expect to hit the 3 or 4-degree target. At that point, they believe the world’s agriculture system will collapse. The projected population is 11 billion people by 2100. So the threat of no food is why more people should be worried about the climate crisis.

Drought and Social Unrest

Inaction is not an option, it will only make matters worse. The destruction of ecosystems and species is not just our doing. The heat caused by global warming will not be stopped. There is no switch that can be flicked or dial that can be turned. We will watch helplessly and hope for rain. Like children in a war zone, we’ll slowly die. Not because of bullets, but because of heat, food and water scarcity.

Today the hotter regions of the Earth have politics governed by food and water scarcity. The land is protected by force, and walls are built by hatred and anger. For example, Nasa measured the groundwater in the Tigris and Euphrates rivers between 2003 and 2009. They found it had lost water faster than any other place in the world. While the Scientists were watching water levels drop political experts noticed tensions rising in the region. Drought caused thousands to become angry and together they began a revolution in Syria.

Canadian Contributions

Every time we go to the mall and buy something we’re taking from the supply chain. Think about all the energy it took to get there. The raw materials mined or created in a laboratory take energy to produce.

Then we ship raw materials and manufacture them into goods overseas. Next, they`re shipped back, trucked, flown or put on a train to locations across Canada. The chemicals and gases it takes to create these man-made products eventually get released into the environment.

So when we make a purchase it directly affects the CO2 in the atmosphere. We`re burning Fossil fuels to mine, log, process, ship, and ship again. In the past, this logistically has worked. But we`ve had fewer people on Earth. So, our economy can`t work without dire consequences.

Carbon Taxing

If people are not willing to change their ways then the government has no choice. They must step in and do it for us. The Canadian government implemented a Carbon tax to Ontario, British Columbia, Manitoba, and Saskatchewan. What are they doing with our Carbon tax dollars?

From the government`s perspective, the best way to address the cost of climate change is to tax us. Like taxing cigarettes it nudges people to make a change if it costs them more. Once the government taxed cigarettes people vowed to quit and sales decreased. A collaborative government agreement was signed to keep climate change in check. However, they can’t change the GHG emissions without the support of the public.

Environment Canada states, by 2020 the Climate tax will have removed 50-60 Megatonnes of Carbon from the air annually. If their calculations are correct it is effective. This effectively reduces emissions by 12% each year. British Columbia introduced the Carbon tax in 2008. According to a 2018 report B.C. has the fastest growing economy in Canada! Coincidence?

Canadian Industry

The Federal government’s website shows the most significant reduction will come from Industry. Corporations haven`t spent money on innovative technologies on their own accord. They’re lured with a carrot to get them to think and act differently. Therefore, through taxation, the government enforces methane reduction in the oil and gas industry. 

The goal is to reduce emissions between 40-45% below 2012 levels by the year 2025. They’re allowing flexibilities while encouraging innovation of methane reductions. Canadian taxpayers have collectively reduced the potential compliance costs for the oil and gas industry. By more than 1 billion dollars…

One of the ways companies uses this money is by using cost-effective technology. For instance, they`re using drone planes with infrared cameras to detect gas leaks. If they know where the leak is then they’re able to fix it thus saving time and money. The Carbon tax is hotly debated because it`s misunderstood. But in the end, the Canadian government gives 90% of the tax dollars back to the public. They do this in the form of rebates to those that use transit, electric cars or smart home technology.

Change Matters

The Climate crisis is a term that politicians, activists, and scientists use to get our attention! If we wait we’ll struggle to cope with the warming atmosphere. Fortunately, there is still time. Feel a sense of relief knowing that you can make a difference.

Support a circular economy, drive alternative vehicles, eat a 100-mile diet. There are so many ways to live a more meaningful life. Small changes in everyday decisions will help the climate emergency. It is the betterment of those living in hot arid climates. Plus, it will promote a better life now and for the future. What will you do today that will make a difference for tomorrow?

Read more about this topic in these great resources below

Carbon Pricing in Canada

Canada’s commitment to the carbon reduction

Carbon Tax

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Seven ways to stop plastic in the food court

Shopping without acquiring plastic in the food court isn’t easy! The object of the game is to figure out how to stop it from flowing past you. For all those 1970’s and 1980’s babies out there it’s kinda like the game of Pong!

This game was pretty much Tennis for those who have no idea what I’m talking about! I went to the mall with my son and we decided to eat at the food court. It’s near impossible to do this without throwing anything away. But, eating in the mall is a popular place for families to go!

My goal was to be mindful and turn away plastic containers. I ordered the KFC take away bucket for kids and it came in a paper container with a plastic lid. Then I bought a salad from Chachi’s which came in a paper container with a plastic lid.

I popped the lid off both containers and asked each company to keep it. When we do this we’re sending a message to them that we don’t want it anymore. Don’t offer it. Styrofoam is also a seriously nasty solution for containers! It will last a million years!!! If more of us are mindful they will see the trend and will adjust packaging accordingly. #onegooddeedaday

Ways to stop the flow of plastic packaging in the food court

  • Bring own sports bottle or coffee cup
  • Buy only fountain drinks
  • Ask for a paper plate
  • Keep a Fork, Spoon, and Knife in the car (keep them in the car wash in the bathroom accordingly)
  • Bring a water bottle or mug from home
  • Give back napkins you think you won’t use

Did I miss anything? If so please leave a comment and I’ll add it to the list. If each person does one of these deeds a day then the way people conduct their business will also change. We have to complain and give back when it’s necessary!

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The Importance Of Brand Support And Your Dollars

The trouble with consumerism is it’s superficial. We’re not really educated on brand support. We’re totally spoiled since we can buy anything, from anywhere, by just a click of a button. The shopping revolution has grown and evolved. Our generation thrives on it. The rise of population, production, and propulsion has interconnected people and products. So, this post is for the shoppers that want to shop consciously too make a difference in the world. Not just consume.

Brand support creates Iconic Brands

If you haven’t heard the name Mondelez International here’s your chance. Why would you want to learn about this company? Maybe because it has some of the most powerful and iconic brands in the world. Or maybe because it helps to know how large corporations are conducting business.

Either way who really has the time to do research on what these companies are up too? Not many people would put the time in when life is busy and time is so precious. I want to make it easier for readers to stop in, read a good post, and take whatever tidbit with you!

Who Is Mondelez International?

Founded in 1923, and formally known as the National Dairy Products Corporation. An entrepreneur named Thomas McInnereny went to the banks for financing his vision. His plan was to consolidate the fragmented ice cream industry. Therefore, he joined his company with Edward Rieck’s dairy company. Together they convinced the banks to invest in a roll-up strategy. In order to monopolize the ice cream industry, they quickly acquired 55 dairy businesses.

Mondelez International is now an American multinational confectionery company. Its sole responsibility has been to feed generations delicious snacks! They’re sweet and salty treats are brands that we’ve all grown up eating. From Oreos to Ritz crackers, they operate making 26 billion dollars a year in 160 countries. We’ve voted with our dollars and have offered this company 100% brand support!

Corporate responsibility

I’ve chosen to highlight this company because they monitor their carbon footprint. According to their website, they’re working to set achievable goals for 2020.

These science-based goals help to limit climate change to less than 2 degrees. Included in this plan is the reduction of CO2 emissions by 15% equalling the amount of 240,000 tonnes a year. They’re not doing this alone. They hired a group of people dedicated to keeping them on track!

CDP Disclosure Insight Action is a non-profit group working with investors, companies, and cities. They understand the need for urgent action to build a sustainable economy. Given that I’m glad to see there’s a third party looking out for the general public. It would be too easy for a company to sugarcoat the truth. Don’t mind the pun!

Furthermore, the short term plan is to reduce packaging by 65,000 tonnes. Plus, the paper sourced will come from recyclable paper found from sustainable sources. Although this may be true they’ve also said they no longer want to support verified non-deforested sources in their packaging.

Deforestation in the Industry

However, they`re part of a pool of 1050 corporations deemed to have a significant impact on forests. In 2018 they did not disclose or remain transparent when it came to the deforestation of forests around the world. In fact, they`ve declined to disclose their impacts in the past three years.

Global forests are losing 5 million hectares a year which is 15 football fields a minute. Companies like Mondolez use commodities such as palm oil that drive the deforestation.

The problem with deforestation is that it if we lose our trees then less CO2 can be absorbed. CDP data shows that 83% of corporate targets regarding deforestation are until 2020. Only 14% of deforestation targets have been extended beyond the year 2020.

Moreover, companies reported 30 billion dollars in losses due to the destruction of forests. Between crop failures, forest fires, and regulatory change it’s all taking a toll on business as usual. It’s crazy to think that the problem, which can be solved, is mostly ignored.

Delivering Results

In spite of, Mondolez has created the Harmony program, which involves 1,700 farmers, 13 Millers, and cooperatives across 6 markets. The program promotes biodiversity, conserves water and cares for the soil. For ten years, the program has reduced the use of pesticides in fields and farmers have planted 1026 Hectares of flowers. The flowers are responsible for maintaining bee populations. They also support 30 species of butterflies.

Below are the brands that Mondolez controls. By purchasing these items you are supporting their programs and policies that offer both positive and negative impacts on the environment. The question is do you think the positives outweigh the negative? If the negatives are too much to take then what will you do to make a change?

  • Belvita Breakfast,
  • Cadbury’s Dairy Milk chocolate,
  • Chips Ahoy cookies,
  • Dentyne Gum
  • Enjoy Life Foods.
  • Halls,
  • Milka,
  • Nabisco Newtons,
  • Nilla,
  • Nutter Butter,
  • Oreo,
  • Premium Ritz Crackers.
  • Sour Patch kids,
  • Stride Gum,
  • Toblerone,
  • Tang,
  • Triscuits, and
  • Wheat Thins.
  • Kraft

Even though, their website paints a rosy picture telling us their story of corporate responsibility. Their efforts, through CPD, show us some kind of transparency. It seems their old ways and habits have been hard to break.

How you can make a change

We have the best chances now to make a large impact. With all the tools and education on the world wide web, we can use it to make a difference. Use my website as a bulletin for your conscious shopping needs because my goal is to make your job easier as a consumer.

A Sustainable economy is a thoughtful process developed and planned to change the world. It must be remembered that we’ve got to take the time out to plan for the future. It could be something as simple as baking your own cookies. Since baking reduces the amount of packaging used, plus it reduces the reliance on palm oil. This is a classic solution instead of offering brand support.

Every one of us has an obligation to make the world better off than we left it. Many people pour themselves into their family, work or volunteer life. But, sustainable lives requires the same thoughtful mindfulness each day. What are you going to do to minimize the impact of your carbon footprint?

To learn more about this topic please click the links below:

CDP Disclosure Insigbt Action Group

History of Mondelez International

Mondelez International Sustainable Action Resource Page

CDP failure to disclose impacts world forests

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These 4 brands sell the most ethical dairy foods

There are 10% more Canadians concerned about farm animal welfare now than in recent years! The Dairy industry abides by the Canadian food inspection (CFIA) guidelines. However, there are some practices that are questionable. But, thankfully there are Canadian Farms dedicated to raising animals with an ethical Dairy approach. Support these companies looking to make a difference in the Dairy industry.

It’s not ethical Dairy if…

The Dairy food industry accounts for 18.9 Billion dollars of Canada’s annual GDP! It’s 215,000 Dairy workers who have mandatory routines to maximize profits. These routines are also not necessarily there for the welfare of the animal. There are 20,000 Dairy farms treating 1.2 million cows the same way.

For instance, a newborn Calf is separated from its Mother. Why? Because they drink the Mother’s milk supply. Or conversely, so we can drink the milk intended for them! As a Mother, this makes me angry. Everyone knows the separation of Mother and Baby causes major stress. They cry for one another and suffer emotional and physical pain.

Support a better way

At present, there are no governing laws making it mandatory for companies to label animal welfare. Yet, large factories are using marketing terms to hook “health conscience shoppers”.

Such as, natural, grain-fed or vegetarian. These labels do nothing to guarantee the welfare of a cow. Watch out for free-range labels, as well, because the CFIA doesn’t do any inspections.

What can Dairy drinkers do to make a difference? If you buy Organic Milk you’ll guarantee an animal a better life! They’ll have access to quality food, pastures, better indoor air quality, and space.

Most big farm factories treat their animals in tightly confined quarters with antibiotics. These animals are living with death and feces which is why they need it. However, an Organic cow is never treated with more than two rounds of antibiotics.

I’ve listed three companies that are trying to provide ethical dairy options for the consumer. They’re looking for ways to make a difference one way or another.

Ben and Jerrys

Firstly, we have Ben and Jerry’s nondairy ice cream which wins the medal for an ethical ice-cream product! They’ve created it with almonds but have kept their ice creams great tasting!

11 flavors fall into the zone

  • Cherry Garcia
  • Chocolate caramel cluster
  • Coffee caramel fudge
  • Chocolate cookie dough
  • Caramel almond brittle
  • Chocolate fudge brownie

B&J’s supports Fridays for Futures. They also believe that climate change is a big problem. They’ve put their pints of ice-cream on an endangered list due to global warming. Cocoa beans and nuts like almonds, pistachios, pecans, walnuts and coffee production will begin to suffer. Hot weather without cold spells will mark a time when production will decrease and prices for the commodity will increase.

Since 2002 they’ve launched a carbon offset program for their manufacturing facilities. Then in 2007, they created a global warming campaign. B&J’s teamed up with David Mathews to help send a message!

Climate change will change life as we know it! They have a long history in the fight to raise awareness for climate change! This company also strongly believes in fair trade with farmers.

They’ve sourced five major ingredients from farmers that treat people well. Cocoa, Sugar, Vanilla, Coffee, and Bananas all come with a certification of good ethics and great taste.

Activia

Next, Activia yogurt is a brand name you can look for while searching for an ethical dairy product. These flavors below do not contain Genetically Modified Organisms.

  • ACTIVIA Dailies:
  • Acai berry, blueberry
  • Cherry
  • Honey Ginger
  • Lemon Ginger
  • Mango Turmeric
  • Peach
  • Strawberry
  • Vanilla

Activia’s parent company Danone is part of the Certified B Corporation. This organization knows that the world’s problems cannot be solved by governments and nonprofit organizations alone.

The B Corp. “envisions an economy as a force for good.” Their shared core beliefs come from the idea that businesses must be the change the world seeks. 

They run ethical businesses, above all else… including profits. They follow a principle where each company is interdependent upon one another. Thus responsible for one another and future generations.

Oikos

Finally, the Oikos brand is serving up sweet and delicious yogurt and managing to align their goals to an ethical dairy cause. Global warming.

Triple zero boasts zero preservatives, zero artificial sweeteners, and zero fat. There are 14 flavors that don’t contain GMOs.

  • Blueberry
  • Cherry
  • Chocolate
  • Coconut
  • Coffee
  • Mango

Oikos’s also has a new Organic line with both plain and vanilla flavors which also do not contain GMOs.

Danone

Danone the parent company committed to becoming Carbon neutral as of 2050! From farms to facilities they are the first of 100 companies that align their carbon trajectory with the Paris agreement.

Equally important, a nonprofit initiative will govern the science-based target they intend to meet. Not only do they monitor their progress they’ll help them stay on track to reach their goal.

Danone has plans to take responsibility for their packaging by switching their current plastic packaging to Biomass bottles. However, not all biomass plastic degrades. It’s projected that the plastic industry is leaning into bio-based plastics that still won’t biodegrade properly.

The biomass plastic in many cases will only degrade in higher temperatures. So, there won’t be enough heat to make the biomass disappear when it’s dumped into the ocean.

It’s important that we support ethical Dairy companies when we’re shopping. Next time you’re at the grocery store and reach for your favorite Dairy product you’ll know more about the ones too trust.

You’ll know which brands have taken corporate responsibility to the next level. A place where corporate profits don’t rule the board meetings. They’ve taken social causes and animal welfare to the heart of their business.

Read more about this issue:

Food Choices

The ethical treatment of Cows – Scotland edition

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Street Lights Contribute To Climate Change

The photo is a stunning portrait of Earth, as the light sparkles like scattered jewels. The creation of a network of fine webs that glow like embers across the night sky. These street lights are a beautiful sight and create the street climate we know today. They’re lighting empty parking lots, near-empty office towers, streets, highways, and commercial parks. These are humans shining their equivocal lanterns of life.

The idea to create an after-dark street climate originated in the fourth century from the city of Antioch. This city used torches to guide nightwalkers through the darkness and kept robbers at bay. Still, we assume street lights are necessary to keep us safe. Even though we’ve created revolutionary technology. We have cars to take us safely and security systems to keep us safer. Yet, people instinctively use the front porch light for peace of mind.

anders-jilden-3871-unsplash

Street Climate 2020

The population has increased and we’re lighting the night skies more than ever! Our antiquated street climate is misdirected, inefficient and not necessary. For instance, we light up parking lots in the middle of the night for security reasons. Yet, there are night vision security systems that can scan the scene. Motion-activated sensors will light up corridors, parking lots, or office spaces. Office towers have security measures such as card locks, elevator fobs, and concierge security. Yet street lights still remain on all night long.

What do you do when you have money to burn? Most would rather buy anything other than a utility bill! The majority of burglars look for alarms and many of them won’t break into a house with signs of one present. The chances of an intruder burglarizing a home increases three hundred percent.

Burglaries also happen more often in the daytime than they do at night. The light signals someone maybe home. Yet if there’s a Burglar who wants inside there is no light outside that will protect you. A “>home security system is in every family’s best interest and please turn off your lights before you go to bed… Lights give us a false sense of security.

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The cost to taxpayers

In Vancouver alone over fifty thousand street lamps are lit yet we have headlights to guide our way. Large stretches of main Highways do not use street lights. Yet the main streets of cities and towns are lit up like a pumpkin till dawn.  We’ve created a street climate which burns taxpayers dollars throughout the night.

Vancouver taxpayers pay  $6,530,000 to burn street lights each year. This expenditure is a fixed expense and if public funds are low we could see the sell-off of this public system. It happened in Toronto when out of desperation, the government sold its street lights in 2005. They sold their street lights to the Greater Toronto Electrical Contractors Association. So, for the next thirty years, they’re on the hook for a whopping 420 million dollars.

This works out to double what Vancouver pays on an annual basis. But Vancouver has 1/6th the landmass as Toronto so we generally will pay less. But, it’s easy to see how quickly our tax dollars are spent!

street climate

The cost to our planet’s climate

Moreover, Canadians produce eighty-one percent of Green House Gas Emissions  (GHG) from economic activity. We use gasoline for transportation and produce non-renewable electricity. This includes lighting buildings and street lights.

The good news? Over eighty percent of British Columbia’s electricity comes from non-GHG emitting sources. These sources come from Hydro dams, biomass, wind, and solar energy.

However, as of 2017, the majority of the world is still getting its energy from burning fossil fuels. Unfortunately, at this moment, the world’s dependence on fossil fuels is causing CO2 levels to skyrocket! Even though countries are having trouble transitioning away from fossil fuels. Cities can change the amount we depend on them by turning off street lights.

A plan to offset emissions

As of 2009 the Copenhagen accord composed guidelines for Canadians. Canada agreed to create a GHG emissions reduction plan to 30% below 2005 levels. The deadline? 2030! The mission is to keep the global temperature from rising less than two degrees Celsius. Can we do it?…

It won’t be easy. Between 2005 and 2018 over 5, 200, 000 Canadian babies were born. Canada is also a desirable place to live. Therefore, many people from around the world want to live here. In fact 700, 000 people have immigrated to Canada in 2019. For the sake of curiosity, I calculated the amount we’ve grown in thirteen years. I combined births and immigration and subtracted deaths. This number totalled 2, 129, 363 more people since 2005. Our population will most likely continue to rise. We are a stable country with resources and wide open spaces.

We’re growing in number and our economy has also grown significantly! A study conducted by the Canadian Government found that even though we’ve grown the GHG output per GDP has declined by 16.4%.

The implementation of new technology is the largest factor in this statistic. It’s wonderful to see that advancements have made a difference in creating a sustainable future. Canada is on track to help make an impact on the world’s temperatures.

Canadian Graph Of GHG Emissions

canadian carbon reduction from 2005-2015

Implementing Change

However, there is always room for improvement! The Copenhagen accord is a good initiative, but it falls short in effectiveness. It’s based on cooperation from every developing country. Leaders won’t guarantee that countries are going to do their part.

Therefore, cities must reduce consumption and reliance on energy in a different way. The biggest way for any city to contribute is by turning off useless street lights. In conclusion, reduce the light from the street lights and put money back into the taxpayer’s pockets.

Researchers have found that the city of Tucson had developed smart lighting technology. The city adjusts the illumination of the street light depending on the time of night. When dusk starts the lights are turned on up to 90%. Once midnight scones around they’re reduced down to 60%.

Check out the email address below which is dedicated to the City of Vancouver’s street light program. If you also believe this is a good idea please feel free to send them an email in support. outdoor.lighting@vancouver.ca

Sample letter:

To whom it may concern,

As a concerned taxpayer, I am writing to tell city officials it`s time for a change. City officials should analyze the street light systems further. It is our responsibility as concerned taxpayers to reduce Green House Gases. Moreover, by limiting the use of street lights between the time frame of 1 am and 5 am will make a difference. Also, the city should limit the lighting used throughout the city during nonpeak hours. Turn off lights that are serving empty parking lots, streets, and public spaces. We`re currently using Fifty thousand street lights on Greater Vancouver Streets. Therefore, the consumption and frequency of these street lights are very high. We must take action and reduce reliance for the sake of the future.

Sincerely,

Jane

Canada’s greenhouse emissions

Stats Canada: Births

Canadian Immigration numbers

Copenhagen Accord: Reduce emissions

Burglary Statistics: The Hard Numbers

City of Vancouver lighting Budget

Toronto Street Lighting Program

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36 Easy Ways To Live A Better Life

Table Of Contents
  1. A Reason to live a better life
  2. Here are thirty-six good deeds to live a better life.
  3. Materialism costs consumers their futures

A Reason to live a better life

Climbing a mountain seems like madness and once you’ve reached the top of the summit all that’s heard is silence. The metaphor of climbing a mountain is often described when searching for a better life.  But those who climb mountains are often faced with tough decisions, not beauty. Why do people search out and conquer such extreme goals? Yet when they’re faced with changing simple daily habits find it so hard to commit to them? Dreams and desires are mountains of the mind that drive us to be.

After all, isn’t life complete once you reach the highest goal? Life is good and should there be any reason to seek out more? No, not really. But, countless people who have reached their goals will tell you the idea is misleading. Most that achieve their dreams and ultimate desires find they quickly become bored.

Moreover, the time has come where we’re forced to face the issues created by our desires. Where fascination and obsessions have worn out our planet. Our need for the planet’s resources is far and wide. Demand has risen and will further rise in the future.

Now Scientists are telling us temperatures and sea levels are rising. Consequently, World Leaders in different countries are asked to rise in the face of this new challenge. So, many have declared a climate change emergency. But what can one person do to make a difference? 

Here are thirty-six good deeds to live a better life.

Unplug your devices.

It’s often the little things all together that add up to savings. If you get into the habit of pulling the plug it will help swell your pocketbook.

Plant wildflowers

Planting wildflowers in public areas beautify the grounds. It gives beneficial insects food and gives grassy areas more attractive.

Buy post-consumer paper

Cascades prides its brand on using post-consumer cardboard to make their tissue.

Plant a vegetable garden and donate the vegetables to the food bank.

Food donated to the food bank is often filled with white flour, sugar, and salt. The fruits and veggies are canned and fresh produce isn’t a popular hand out. You can change that by giving fresh fruit and vegetables from your garden.

Turn off the lights before bed.

Lights that blaze through the night are not their to protect. That’s why they made security systems! Turn off your porch or hallway light and save money.

Turn the tap off

The natural thing to do is keep the water running while brushing teeth or washing the odd dish. Water is the most precious resource on the planet, next to air. Treat water with the respect it deserves and conserve as much as you can!

Take public transport instead of driving

For those people that wouldn’t take a bus even if it meant they’d save money. It’s not that bad! Bring your earbuds, listen to a good podcast, research a hobby, interest or read a book. This is downtime and often reflecting on life happens on the bus.

Stop Plastic

Remembering your plastic bag is hard at first but eventually, you get better at it! It’s exactly like conditioning your muscles when you work out! They get stronger and so do you! The same goes for looking for ways to reduce packaging waste.

Hold the door open for a stranger

The lovely thing about this action is that you’ll find people randomly reciprocate. If you open the door first your efforts will not be lost. Just like anything you put effort into you start to see results. Plus it makes you feel good inside!

Write a letter to your local MLA

I have written a letter for you! Copy and paste it from How to stop using plastic bags effectively. I provide a link so you can find their email with one click (Canada only). Even since the climate emergency was declared people are still reaching for a plastic bag.

Sign up to change.org

Support petitions that help to end climate change and plastic. People that have a passion for social causes are creating them in the hope to change the world. Help let their dedication take them to the next level. It is their dream to have your support and it could make a profound difference.

Buy an electric car

Keep in mind that electric cars are best when your power comes from hydro, solar, or wind energy. If the powerplant down the street is using fossil fuels to generate electricity than it defeats the purpose.

Attend an event that supports earth-friendly ways.

A farmers market is such a good way to find products made close to home. I like this idea since it’s here you find new ideas, attractive organic produce.

Read a book

Justine Mckeen’s Bottle Throttle is a good book for the children in your family. The book is about a child’s worries about what plastic is doing to the environment and how it might affect her friends. Reading books like these ones can give you another perspective. It offers some insight and inspiration for those that need it.

Spend more time outside

The International Journal of Environmental Health research shows that you just need 20 minutes in Nature. Even if you don’t spend it exercising it still improves your wellbeing!

calculate your carbon footprint.

Families can help each other by holding one another accountable. Set a goal and try to reduce it by twenty percent. finding ways to reduce waste with your family will all be life-changing. If you can reduce your carbon footprint you’ll save time and money.

Volunteer your time.

Volunteering can be so much fun! It is a way to see new places, meet new people, and have a great experience. Don’t just volunteer for just one cause. Make sure you volunteer for multiple causes to keep things interesting.

Buy soap bars.

Plastic bottles are a nightmare! Everything these days is held in plastic. However, the variety you can find in a soap bar for all hair types is really good. Quite often they don’t have the chemicals you can’t pronounce. Plus, they’re often made by local soap makers. So, help out a local small business owner while using less plastic. It’s worth it.

Skip eating beef.

The book OMD is written to show you that plant-based diets are good for your mind, body and the planet too. Suzi Amis Cameron offers tips and recipes for this one life-changing idea. Just cooking one meal a day differently can make life better.

Pick up trash at the park or the beach.

Train yourself to pick up other people’s trash. That’s a concept that is actually quite hard to grasp. It’s not an easy task and it may not be your trash but it’s your planet.

Be a part of or organize a market for local consumers

Let your inner ecobabe out! If you’re feeling entrepreneurial than now is the time to invent, discover, and distribute eco-friendly products. Network with other people that have other good ideas and find a way to get it to the consumer. Set up a pop-up shop or join the local Farmer’s market.

Reuse take out containers

The smaller containers are great for packing lunches or organize your craft drawer. Store leftovers or bake and give your goods away. Be as bold as to save them up and give them away again. Who knows! Another person’s trash is another person’s treasure. Get creative. These takeout containers are built to last for the next five generations…at least.

Talk to someone

Practice incorporating climate change or plastic pollution into small talk. If you share your worries with another it could change their perspective. Talk to a friend or family member about rising temperatures and sea levels. Talk to a stranger about the trash in our oceans.

Buy Organic

Organic food supports the healthy lifestyle of Farmers. Traditional farming supports the natural ecosystem and if done right will change the world. Organic farming involves crop diversity, harmony with nature without pesticides. All the good things we want for our planet.

Let a child write a letter

A child’s letter comes from an innocent place that can melt hearts. It’s often more powerful than a letter coming from an adult. It also gives the child a sense of accomplishment and gives them purpose.

Support ethical companies

We buy products with attractive packaging or good taste. We don’t take into account who we’re supporting when we buy it. What is their environmental and social impact? It’s not easy to tell unless you stop and do some research. Not many people have time for it. Stop supporting companies that don’t take their environmental impact seriously.

Eat fruits and vegetables grown locally

When you choose fruits and vegetables do you look to see where it’s grown? Quite often apples grown in your local region will sit next to the apple grown 100 miles away. Make sure you’re aware of which one to choose. Go with fruit or vegge with the smallest carbon footprint and help a local Farmer out.

Bake

When you pick up a six-pack of muffins, a box of cookies or a bag of bread you’re not just getting the food. Reduce your reliance on prepackaged baking and try doing it at home. #Tip: When you bake only bake half the dough, freeze the other half. A brilliant way to reduce reliance on the packaging and Palm Oil.

Post on social media

Share your experience doing something good for someone. Post stories of how you overcame a challenge and figured a good solution. It will give others the motivation to do the same!

Make homemade soup

Chicken soup for the soul! Why would making soup give you a better life? It’s is a healthier option to canned soups. You get fresh vegetables and fewer preservatives. Store-bought soup also comes with an aluminum can! Aluminum cans are not as bad as plastic. But it’s still considered a single-use product. It is recyclable however in our trashy pandemic state it should be avoided. In this case, less is more! *Freeze leftovers

Plant a fruit tree

Fresh fruits such as Cherry, Pear, Apple, Plum or Peach sound so good! Plant one in your yard amongst the wildflowers. The grass is a popular choice for most lawns but it’s not the best choice. A Fruit tree will bring wildlife to your home and fresh fruit to your table.

Invest in solar panels

If your power comes from coal-fired plants maybe it’s time to cut the chord!

Bring your own Coffee cup

I asked the Barista at the local Starbucks how many people bring their own cup. Her guesstimate was 1 in 10. I don’t know about you but I drink a lot of coffee and hardly ever see anyone with their own cup. Lead by example. Tell the person waiting beside you your wish. A wish that more people would remember their own cup.

Say no to straws

We lived without straws before and managed to get by! Who taught us that we need a straw to suck back our favorite beverage anyway? Plastic straws are unnecessary. So next time your handed one give it back and tell them why!

Materialism costs consumers their futures

If we practice these new habits we will find fulfillment. Fulfillment in the sense where we practice good deeds while keeping money in our pockets. Like a mountain climber, we have to remain present. Every decision must be done consciously with the knowledge that if we don’t change now life will be very different in the future.

These 36 changes you make to your life will affect the economy. However, in the long run, it will adjust and be better off. It’s not natural to have continual growth without consequences. Continuous corporate profits are not sustainable.

Lead the way

Therefore, it’s time to support those invested in the community. Overall it’s important to support companies defined by their environmental policies. Find out which 12 companies lead the way to a circular economy. You still have some time to do what is right for our planet!

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4 Ways To Get Rid Of Your Plastic Problem

A typical day may inevitably end up at the grocery store to pick up last-minute items. Browsing the options are vast and when comparison shopping the plastic problem isn’t top of mind! Most people will look at the price or condition of the product.

For Instance, If you have two heads of lettuce which look-alike sitting next to one another. One wrapped in foil the other lettuce wrapped with a rubber band. Would you think twice and pick up the right one? Some would just look at the Lettuce and decide which one looks most delicious and wouldn’t notice its packaging.

I maneuver through the aisles of the grocery store on autopilot while searching for ingredients. However, I’m usually distracted by thoughts of what needs to be done before dinner and work-related annoyances! Chances are if you’re like I was then you might not even think twice either!

So the big question is how do we keep the plastic problem in our thoughts? How can I remember to stop and analyze what to do at the right moment?  What will it take to reach for the product with the least packaging? If we question ourselves once a day then we can make an impact! If just 100 people said no when asked if they’d like a plastic bag the world would be better off!

How to avoid a plastic problem

There are ways that we can pressure our local supermarket to provide biodegradable bags in the produce section. Talk to the Store Manager, drop a note in their comment box. If they don’t have one write them a short letter and mail it. Social media is a hot spot for retailers and they’re super sensitive about reviews. Create a google review and ask them why they don’t supply biodegradable bags.

Another way to avoid unnecessary plastic is to avoid picking up the over-packaged produce. Let it rot at the store and eventually, the Manager will realize what’s going on! They’ll either notify the grower or just stop bringing the product in altogether. Retailers are watching our trends, and analyzing our every move. They’re always looking to make money on trends in order to capitalize on our basic desires. They make it their business to know what the customer cares about.

Use your own bags

Even though we’re busy and the last thing we think about is reusable bags. As a conscious shopper, we’ve got to remember them on the way out the door. I found 100% Biodegradable Produce Bags which are nylon, bleach, pesticide, and polyester free. and contain no chemical dyes. Above all, they won’t last 400 years!! Throw a dozen apples, oranges, potatoes in or whatever your heart desires. When large chain supermarkets are not changing their ways we have to take it upon ourselves to start the change. However, we must let the Store know about the inconvenience or else action won’t happen and the Manager won’t think it’s a problem. Squeaky wheels get the grease!

Write a Letter to your MLA

Contact your local MLA. Contact Us: British Columbia MLA Guide 

These folks have their seats because of you. Let them hear consumer complaints, they work for us and we are their clients. Pass on consumer sentiment to their office using the link above copy and paste this template into an email and hit send.

Dear  (First name) (Last name)

As a proud B.C. resident and your constituent, one of the biggest concerns is the excessive use of non-biodegradable plastic in local grocery stores.  Controlling how plastic is disposed of is a problem and the government has taken strides to remedy trash through an extensive recycling program. However, the global issue of plastics has increasingly become an extreme environmental issue and the government has the responsibility to take people’s efforts to the next level. Sorting plastics does not reduce the amount of plastic that is used unnecessarily on a daily basis. If there is one thing the governments can do to make a change it’s by banning single-use plastic in grocery stores. Over packaging and single-use plastics can be found in the following:

  1. Roles of Plastic bags in the produce section
  2. Cashier Plastic bags
  3. Plastic packaging used for fruit and vegetables
  4. Salad Containers
  5. Pre-Bagged produce (plastic mesh)

The Government has the ability to reduce the amount of single-use plastics in local grocery stores and it’s time we take a stand against companies that use plastics to bag or cover produce. There are biodegradable options that should be used to implement current packaging practices. Guidelines must be established to limit plastic use and encourage hemp plastic in mainstream packaging. I strongly encourage you to remind Premier John Horgan the BC government has an obligation to be an environmental steward.

I look forward to your response.

Sincerely,

(Insert name), (City/Town)

petitions chamber (24)

The trick to cleaning up our environment quicker is finding ways of reducing the number of plastics in local stores. I think the government has done a good job to ensure we recycle our products but the hard part is reducing over-packaged items at the grocery store. Plastics are man-made; they do not occur in nature.  Soooo if it’s not naturally occurring it really shouldn’t even exist. We’re quickly moving up the creek without a plug or a paddle! 

It’s not easy to fix the plastic problem. But, if we ask ourselves one question at the right time it can make the difference. Plastic is a huge part of our lives it can be shaped into any form, it protects, encases, becomes tools, and is an integral part of so many gadgets. Our society has come to depend on them! This rudimentary thought should be labeled “Plastic Psychology.” Seriously I think I’m going to need a shrink to get me through a shopping trip!