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According to the US Department of Labor, more than 2 million children in Ghana and Cote d’Ivoire work in hazardous conditions growing cocoa, the main ingredient in chocolate 1. While some companies have begun tracing their supply chains to prevent child labor, the vast majority of the 3 million tons of cocoa produced each year come from small farms in West Africa, where farmers and their children live on less than $1 per day2.

A Chocolate Scorecard on Sustainability

This scorecard will help you find ethically sourced sweets and understand what the certification labels on cocoa actually mean. This is, of course, not a comprehensive list of ethically sourced chocolate companies; however, the scorecard features companies who are also Green Business Network members, as Green America has screened them for their environmental, social justice, and human rights practices. Chocolate bars with an "A" rating are addressing farmer income and child labor issues, and are organic and/or non-GMO certified.

Most major chocolate companies have commitments to source more sustainable cocoa. In fact, many of them have plans to have 100% certified cocoa in their supply chain by 2020. Although this is an important step in the right direction, certification programs alone are not enough to solve the underlying issues that contribute to child labor in cocoa, including farmer poverty and a lack of infrastructure.

With that in mind, last year we expanded our chocolate scorecard to go beyond commitments about certified chocolate to look at programs that support farmers and address child labor when it is found. Additionally, while the scorecard’s ratings are still heavily based on efforts to combat child labor, this year we’ve added a new category on deforestation. On top of a child labor problem, the cocoa industry has a huge negative impact on forests. In the Ivory Coast and Ghana, 90% of their forests have been lost and the cocoa industry is a big driver of that deforestation.  Much of that deforestation was caused by the largest cocoa companies, and, as a result of activist pressure, they worked with the World Cocoa Foundation to create the Cocoa and Forest Initiative to prevent further damage.  

A Chocolate Scorecard on Child Labor and Deforestation

With this updated scorecard, we are not only looking at how much certified cocoa a major chocolate company has, we are also looking to see if the company has innovative programs and projects in place to address some of the other underlying issues of child labor in cocoa and if the company is working to address deforestation. Although companies may have programs going beyond certification that sound similar, they can vary in practice in regards to how comprehensive and impactful they are, and the final grade reflects that.

Such programs include:

• Child Labor Monitoring and Remediation Systems, which work with communities and families to address why child labor is happening on farms;
• Farmer income generating programs;
• Traceability mechanisms for fuller supply chain transparency.

You can learn more about what went into the different grades here.

Click to here to download your own copy of Green America's Chocolate Scorecard

denotes members of Green America's Green Business Network.

Equal Exchange (EE) was founded to challenge the existing trade model, which often does not favor small scale farmers. EE’s chocolate at a minimum meets fair trade standards but is no longer actively certified, as EE found certifiers to be tailored to the needs of big corporations and through the expansion of certifiers, some of the original values of the fair trade movement were weakened. Equal Exchange aims to create market access for small scale farmers, which at times was at odds with large certifiers. All EE chocolate suppliers are regularly audited against fair trade standards, and all EE products are fully traceable. On average EE pays more for cocoa than even the fair trade premium requires.

Godiva has committed to "100% sustainable cocoa by 2020," but has not provided information about who is certifying its cocoa, nor shared any progress or plans regarding their commitment.

All figures come from publicly available company information and the Cocoa Barometer. This list is not exhaustive of all chocolate companies. If your favorite chocolate brand is not listed, consider calling the company to ask about its commitment to ethical sourcing.

What The Certification Labels Mean

Label	About
Fairtrade	Fairtrade standards prohibit forced labor, child labor, and discrimination. If child labor is detected in a supply chain, Fairtrade immediately enacts its child protection policy and implements remediation efforts. Certified farmers’ organizations receive at least the Fairtrade Minimum Price for their cocoa beans and a Fairtrade Premium that they use to invest in their communities and business. To use the FAIRTRADE certification mark on a product, all ingredients that can be certified must come from Fairtrade sources.
Fair Trade Certified	Fair Trade USA’s Fair Trade Certified standards prohibit forced labor, child labor, and discrimination, and protects freedom of association and collective bargaining rights. If child labor should surface, remediation guidelines are in place. Certified farmers are guaranteed a fair trade floor price for their cocoa beans as well as a social premium. Fair Trade Certified certifies farmer cooperatives as well as larger plantations. Only cocoa needs to be certified for the chocolate bar to receive the seal.
IMO Fair For Life	The IMO Fair for Life guarantees that smallholder farmers receive fair payment and that workers enjoy good and fair working conditions. The Fair for Life system prevents forced and child labor and also includes detailed environmental criteria. Fair For Life certified products must use Fair Trade ingredients if available, and regardless, 50% of all ingredients must be Fair Trade in order for a product to bear the seal.
Rainforest Alliance (RA)	RA standards prohibit the use of forced labor, child labor, and discrimination, and farmers have the right to oragnize. RA does not require buyers to pay a specific minimum floor price for cocoa beans. RA reasons that by producing higher quality and sustainable cocoa beans, farmers should be able to earn a higher price for their beans over time.
UTZ	UTZ certification prohibits forced labor, child labor, and discrimination and protects the right to organize and bargain collectively. In terms of pricing, UTZ states that premiums are paid to farmers for their certified products, but the price is solely based on negotiations between the buyers and farmers. Paying the legal minimum wage is required.

NOTE: In 2018, Rainforest Alliance and Utz merged. In 2019, Rainforest Alliance will release its new standards. Until then, Rainforest Alliance and Utz standards will continue to be applied.

Updated October 16, 2019

1. DOL/Tulane University’s 2013/14 Survey Research on Child Labor in the West African Cocoa Sector

2. 2018 Cocoa Barometer

Back to the Vote With Your Dollar Toolkit

DanoneWave to Advance Soil Health

Green America’s Center for Sustainability Solutions has been collaborating with DanoneWave (maker of dairy and plant-based products, coffee creamers, and beverages) to implement sustainable agriculture practices in its supply chain. DanoneWave has announced the launch of a soil health initiative which will help dairies and growers implement practices that improve soil health. DanoneWave is committing up to $6M for research on soil regeneration and enhancement of organic matter and soil fertility over the next five years. See their press release below.

In addition, DanoneWave has joined with Green America, The Carbon Underground and others to develop a global verification standard for food grown in a regenerative manner. The standard seeks to encourage farmers to restore the carbon cycle and build soil health, crop resilience, and nutrient density.

DanoneWave Puts a Stake in the Ground with Commitment to Regenerative Agriculture and Soil Health Research Collaboration with Renowned Research Partners

Brings together a ‘dream team’ of expertise in the study of soil health, applicable to all agricultural systems in The Dannon Pledge portfolio of brands

• Begins with research that will spur transformation to support best-in-class soil health programs with experts and academics to benefit our farms and communities
• Builds on the company’s commitment to sustainable agriculture as articulated in The Dannon Pledge
• Reinforces company commitment to sustainable agriculture, joining The Carbon Underground to inform the design and development of a new global certification standard for food grown in a regenerative way and exploring options to participate in the Regenerative Organic Alliance

White Plains, NY (March 7, 2018) – Today, DanoneWave puts a stake in the ground, launching a ground-breaking soil health initiative with renowned experts and academics to build best-in-class soil health programs to benefit our farms and communities. The company shared an ambition to commit up to $6M for the research program over the next five years. This program will begin with products involved in The Dannon Pledge, and may have impact in the future across the DanoneWave portfolio. The Dannon Pledge is the company’s commitment to a range of progressive practices focused on sustainable agriculture, transparency and naturality, and enables the company to offer consumers more yogurt choices. The flagship brands that are leading with Non-GMO Project verification as part of The Dannon Pledge include Dannon^®, Oikos^® and Danimals^®. Dannon is part of DanoneWave. To learn more about The Dannon Pledge, visit ExpoWest Booth 513 or dannonpledge.com.

“Soil is the foundation of our food system, with an estimated 95 percent[i] of food directly or indirectly reliant on soil.” said Ryan Sirolli, Agriculture Director, DanoneWave. “As America’s largest yogurt maker, we saw an opportunity to initiate this breakthrough research program with our supply chain. When we announced our Pledge, we committed to championing sustainable agriculture, which includes reaching for better soil health. We will evaluate soil on the farms of growers who provide feed for cows and on the dairy farms where we buy milk. The long-lasting relationships we have with our growers and dairy farmers, who have a passion for change and strive for continuous improvement, have empowered us to launch this program. We know this work requires collaboration to make a meaningful impact, and we are excited to bring together uniquely skilled partners to help us to continue to fulfill our ambition.”

DanoneWave will be advancing its soil health research program over the next 18 months. The aim of the soil health initiative is to identify ways to help regenerate soils, looking at enhancing organic matter and soil fertility with long-term benefits such as soil carbon sequestration, reduced chemicals use, soil water holding capacity, biodiversity and economic resilience of farmer communities. Key activities with participating grower and dairy farmer partners and third-party soil health experts will include soil sampling, review of yield, grower engagement, data collection and analysis, first reports and field days with farmers to provide training around soil health best practices.

 “A priority on my farm is stewardship of the land. When we steward the soil well, we have better yields and we help mother nature. I am looking forward to working with DanoneWave to continue to improve soil health, and I am excited to look at the outcomes of this research program to consider how it impacts my farm and our practices,” said Rick Clark, a grower of Non-GMO Project Verified feed for the supply chain that supports brands involved in The Dannon Pledge at Clark Land and Cattle in Williamsport, Indiana.

The partners DanoneWave is announcing today are:

• Dr. Rattan Lal and the Carbon Management and Sequestration Center at The Ohio State University will lead soil sampling across a set of grower and dairy farmer partners. The team will analyze the samples and provide data for analysis. The team will then look at the data to identify practices to help increase the carbon intake of soil.
• Dr. Harold van Es and the soil health team at Cornell University will partner on soil health analysis for the program. The team will use results to make recommendations to be implemented over the next five years with an aim to improve soil health with participating grower and dairy farmer partners.
• EcoPractices, working with EFC/Ag Solver as a service provider, will gather information from program partners to analyze and share reports that help to create an understanding of what the data means for many stakeholders – importantly, our farmer partners.

In addition to announcing partners for the soil health initiative, today DanoneWave is also proud to join The Carbon Underground, Green America and other food companies to inform the design and development of a new global certification standard for food grown in a regenerative way. The soil health initiative and the company’s work to support The Carbon Underground are two important next steps in DanoneWave’s overarching regenerative ambition. To learn more about The Carbon Underground, read the latest press release here.

“With all life beginning and ending in soil, there is urgency to promote agricultural practices that can help regenerate soils. As a soil scientist who has conducted research in this area for the last 50 years, I am privileged to work with DanoneWave, a company that is setting an example for the private sector with a commitment to become carbon neutral,” said Dr. Rattan Lal, The Ohio State University. “The support of the private sector will ensure we can make changes on a significant scale. I hope that others will be inspired by this work and consider options for becoming involved.”

“Working with the private sector to tackle the question of how to improve soil health will help us make an impact at large scale,” said Dr. Harold van Es, Cornell University. “I’ve spent my career exploring opportunities to improve soil health, and I look forward to working with DanoneWave and the soil health program research team to implement changes based on what we learn through the research.”

Finally, the company is exploring options to participate in the Regenerative Organic Alliance, a group working to develop a new standard, which will be known as Regenerative Organic Certification. The work with the Regenerative Organic Alliance would be complementary to the company’s continued commitment to the USDA Organic Standard through pioneering brands. DanoneWave seeks to understand how this proposed certification can benefit our planet and farming communities through soil health, animal welfare, social fairness, and offer more choices for our consumers and our business.

About DanoneWave
Headquartered in White Plains, New York, and Broomfield, Colorado, the mission of DanoneWave is to bring health through food to as many people as possible via its diverse offering of dairy and plant-based foods in high growth and evolving categories. The ambition of DanoneWave is to produce healthful foods that create economic and social value and nurture natural ecosystems through sustainable agriculture. Every time we eat and drink, we vote for the world we want. And as the largest public benefit corporation in the US, DanoneWave is taking bold steps for social good in North America. DanoneWave is a subsidiary of Danone and more information is available at www.DanoneWave.com.

###

Media Contact:

Alessandra Simkin

914-259-0263

alessandra.simkin@danone.com

Reports to: Executive Co-Director: Culture, Planning & Green Business Development
Salary: $95,000 - $105,000
Benefits: Excellent benefits including health care, dental care, paid leave, socially responsible retirement plan, friendly work environment, 4-day work week

Green America is a national, nonprofit, membership organization dedicated to creating a socially just and environmentally sustainable society by using economic strategies to help solve the many challenges facing our country and world. Green America's unique approach involves working with consumers, businesses, investors and supply chains to build an economy that serves people and the planet.    

The Green Business Network is a program of Green America. Comprised of nearly 2,000 businesses, the Green Business Network is home to both rising social and eco entrepreneurs and well-established green businesses. We provide the tools, information, and consumer base to help small to mid-sized businesses, and entrepreneurs, thrive in today’s competitive green marketplace.

The Green Business Network Director will be responsible for developing and implementing plans to bring the Network to the next level of its development, including reviewing and strengthening operations, expanding the membership base, growing programs, building community, increasing revenues and further strengthening the Network’s communications and benefits.

Responsibilities include: 

1. Oversee GBN’s Strategic Development: Working with the staff team, drive the process for catalyzing the next phase of GBN’s work, growth, and impact as a green economy leader. 
    
2. Lead Membership Growth: Develop print and digital strategies and communications, as well as networking opportunities and outreach plans, to attract new, diverse business members (single entrepreneurs and companies) to the Green Business Network. Business diversity includes race, ethnicity, gender, sexual orientation, veteran status, and more. Create new membership packages and partnerships as needed to identify, cultivate, and engage new members. Ensure membership is properly recorded, acknowledged, and that members receive all of their benefits.
    
3. Lead Membership Renewal Campaigns: Working with the Sr. Manager for GBN Marketing & Communications and the Membership Associate, develop and ensure the timely implementation of compelling membership renewal campaigns throughout the year, including mail, email, calls, and other approaches. Ensure membership renewals are properly recorded, acknowledged, and that members receive all of their benefits.
4. Lead Fundraising Initiatives: Develop communications and other benefits for Green Business Network Leaders, those who contribute financially beyond paying membership dues; identify and cultivate new Leaders; work with the GBN Editorial Associate to expand advertising by GBN members that have passed the GBN business certification, in print and digital Green America communications; develop higher dollar business sponsorships for certified GBN members. Review and implement the GBN membership benefits package to ensure all members receive compelling benefits that are useful to them and that build the green economy. Work with the Development Team on grants to build and advance GBN’s program.

5. Develop & Implement New Programs for Members: Working with Green America staff teams and allies, develop and implement programs that engage GBN members in actions and educational opportunities that build a diverse green economy. Examples include helping businesses take action on the climate crisis, responsible banking and investing, sound food and agriculture practices, fair labor initiatives, and programs that advance Justice, Equity, Diversity & Inclusion. Through webinars, action alerts, coalitional efforts, in-person and virtual gatherings, and more, educate & mobilize GBN members as a community to help advance Green America’s programmatic goals. Work with the Certification Manager to continue to upgrade our green business certification program and to engage more members in the certification process. Handle media calls, draft media releases, develop communications, and liaise with allies to build and promote GBN programs.

6. Review & Strengthen Operations: Review current systems for all aspects of membership, communications, and certification for areas in need of strengthening and work with the staff team on an implementation plan to test and implement improvements for greater effectiveness. Ensure GBN has top notch systems in place to attract, engage, cultivate, and renew and attract members. Systems include Salesforce, Survey Monkey, ActOn, Trello, Microsoft suite of products.

7.  Lead & Oversee the GBN Team: Directly oversee the work of the Sr. Manager of GBN Marketing & Communications and the Certification Manager; support the supervision of the Membership Associate and GBN Editorial Associate by the Sr. Manager of Marketing & Communications. Ensure annual reviews are conducted, team members receive professional support and opportunities for growth. Plan & facilitate team meetings, note-taking, and follow-up.

8.  Guide & Support the GBN Communications Strategy: Working with the Sr. Manager for Marketing & Communications, ensure the timely delivery of useful information to all GBN members via email, mail, and social media; ensure the inclusion of GBN content in the Green American magazine and Your Green Life resource.

9. Create & Manage GBN Budget & Annual Planning Processes:  Work with the GBN Team to create an annual budget and operating plans. High level plans are shared with the Green America staff team and board of directors.

10. Organizational Support: The success of our work and the strength of our organization depend on the voluntary participation of staff from all levels of the organization in various cross-departmental teams, in addition to the core responsibilities of each staff position. While staff members are not required to participate in a voluntary team every year, we do depend on volunteers throughout the year for teams such as: Operating Plan & Budget Team; Justice, Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (JEDI) Team; Pulse Survey Team; and the Fun Days Team. 

11. Other duties as required.

Qualifications:

Experience doesn't always look the same – skills are transferable, and passion is important. Please tell us how your experience can lead to success in this position. 

• Commitment to Green America’s mission.
• 10-plus years of management-level responsibility including team supervision.
• Experience in marketing and partnership development.
• Proven experience with member services and growing a membership program.
• Proven experience in developing programs, benefits, and sponsorship/fundraising opportunities.
• Ability to problem solve and improve systems and processes.
• Experience working with mission-driven entrepreneurs and businesses.
• Experience in advancing justice, equity, diversity and inclusion goals.
• Strong editing and writing skills.
• Experience working in coalitions.
• Ability to multi-task, prioritize and ensure a team meets deadlines.
• Experience with business certification a plus.

To Apply:

 Send your resume and a cover letter to GBNHire@greenamerica.org by January 5, 2024, and please indicate in your letter where you heard about the position. 

Green America is an equal opportunity employer. Women, people of color, LGBTQ individuals, people with disabilities, and veterans are encouraged to apply. All qualified applicants will receive consideration for employment without discrimination regarding: actual or perceived race, color, religion, national origin, sex (including pregnancy, childbirth, related medical conditions, breastfeeding, or reproductive health disorders), age (18 years of age or older), marital status (including domestic partnership and parenthood), personal appearance, sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, family responsibilities, genetic information, disability, matriculation, political affiliation, citizenship status, credit information or any other characteristic protected by federal, state or local laws. Harassment on the basis of a protected characteristic is included as a form of discrimination and is strictly prohibited. 

Sarah is the Senior Director of Special Climate and Agriculture Programs within Green America’s Center for Sustainability Solutions.

Prior to joining Green America, Sarah provided business consulting services to enterprises working to create a more just and sustainable food system. Her clients included impact investors, food system entrepreneurs, and farmer advocacy organizations. Earlier in her career, Sarah directed a non-profit land conservation organization and led management consulting projects for fortune 500 companies.

Sarah holds an BA degree from Yale University and an MBA from the Amos Tuck School of Business at Dartmouth College.  

<p>This fall, Green America's People and Planet Award is celebrating businesses that represents the best of the green economy. Two winners will receive a $5,000 prize to support their business's green mission.&nbsp;</p>

<p>In addition to helping Green Americans, each finalist must also represent strong social and environmental leadership in order to win. &nbsp;</p>

<p><strong>Please vote for your TWO favorite businesses by September 30, 2019&nbsp;at 6:00pm ET,</strong> and help us grow the green economy by awarding them with a prize.</p>

<p style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt">&nbsp;</p>

<p align="center" style="margin:0in 0in 0.0001pt"><a class="green-btn" href="/people-and-planet-award-meet-finalists">Learn more about our finalists</a></p>

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We put together similar looks from conventional clothing brands and from environmentally and socially responsible companies found in our Green Business Network, proving you don’t have to compromise ethics for style when shopping.

Draped Cardigan

H&M Ribbed Cardigan, Black 

Although the cardigan might be a great price, H&M has been caught in multiple scandals related to sweatshops and mistreatment of the employees who manufacture its clothing. Labor organizations accuse the company of paying workers low wages, pushing them to not join labor unions, and doing business with sweatshop suppliers. The cardigan is also 50 percent rayon and 50 percent acrylic. Rayon manufacture requires wood pulp, which may come from virgin forests, and toxic chemicals. And acrylic is a petroleum-based fabric. 

Remember: Conventional clothes may have toxic chemical finishes that provide stain-, water-, fire-, or wrinkle-proofing—and have been linked to health effects like hormone disruption and cancer. The effects of these toxins are the most serious for workers, but the finishes may also remain on clothes and affect wearers, according to GreenPeace.

Alternative: Orgotton Fall Cardigan 

Orgotton offers a similar fair trade cardigan made of 65 percent bamboo. The cardigan also contains 27 percent organic cotton and 8 percent spandex and uses no toxic dyes or finishes.

Green tip: Truly green clothing companies use eco-friendly dyes and inks and avoid chemical finishes. Ask the manufacturer, and look at the labels to ensure your clothes are toxin-free: A GOTS, bluesign, or Oeko-Tex 100 label means your clothing wasn’t exposed to chemical toxins across the supply chain. And beware of the “new clothing smell.” It’s often an indicator of toxic finishes.

Basic White Camisole

Gap Braided Halter Tank

Gap is another serious offender tied to sweatshop labor practices. In the past, the company has used manufacturers that hire children, pay workers less than a dollar an hour, and punish pregnant women by withholding maternity leave or simply firing them. This tank is made of 100 percent rayon, a water- and chemical-intensive fabric.

Remember: Conventional fabrics often come with a significant ecological footprint. Rayon and viscose are made from wood pulp that may come from virgin forests, and they require numerous potentially toxic chemicals to manufacture. Bamboo rayon is made from rapidly renewable bamboo but still requires a lot of chemicals. Nylon and polyester are petroleum-based and non-biodegradable. And cotton accounts for more than 14 percent of all agricultural insecticides, despite only using two percent of arable land. Conventional cotton also requires a tremendous amount of water. 

Green Alternative: Synergy Organic Ella Camisole (available here)

Synergy Organic focuses on making organic clothing without harming the planet. This camisole is made of 100 percent organic cotton with low-impact dyes. It’s also GOTS-certified organic. At $22.00, this tank’s cost is better than competitive with Gap’s $31.99 shirt. You pay less, especially when you consider Synergy’s clothing was manufactured ethically.

Green tip: Look for eco-fabrics when you shop. Certified organic cotton and other fibers are grown without synthetic chemicals or genetically modified seeds. Lyocell/TENCEL® is made from wood pulp from tainably managed forests—or sometimes rapidly renewable brown algae, bamboo, or eucalyptus—using a nontoxic process. MODAL® (be sure to look for the registered symbol) is an eco-friendly fabric made from beech trees. And silk is a low-toxicity fabric. “Peace silk” is made without killing the silk worm. 

Boho Embroidered Clutch

Forever 21 America and Beyond Crossbody Bag

Forever 21 tells us only that this bag is 100 percent cotton and made in India. Unfortunately, that doesn’t help you know much about the bag. What we do know from new reports is that the company is notorious for labor abuses. In August 2017, for example, the Los Angeles Times reported that workers have filed more than 300 claims with the state of California since 2007, alleging that Forever 21 supplier factories in Los Angeles owe them unpaid wages. 

Remember: A “made in the USA” label—like those that appear on some Forever 21 products—does carry some assurance that your clothing may have been manufactured in accordance with US labor laws. However, underground sweatshops do operate in the US, paying workers below the minimum wage, committing wage theft, and putting workers in sub-standard conditions.

Green Alternative: Fiesta Clutch, Lucia’s World Emporium 

This bag has the same fun style of embroidery as the Forever 21 bag but is from a fair trade business. It was made by Guatemalan artisans who are paid a living wage and work in healthy conditions. In addition, fair trade companies encourage workers to collectively bargain, and they pay artisans a premium to improve their communities. Lucia’s World Emporium is a member of the Fair Trade Federation, a trade organization that rigorously screens member businesses for a “360-degree commitment to fair trade.”

Green Tip: If your clothing and accessories come from outside the US, look for a fair trade or GOTS label. Both of these third-party, independent certifications require that workers who grow raw materials or who make clothing earn a living wage and labor under healthy conditions. In the fair trade system, workers also earn a premium for community development. For American-made clothing, buy from companies that are deeply committed to social and environmentally responsibility.

Men's Workout T-Shirt

UnderArmour Threadborne Streaker Men’s Running Shirt 

The UnderArmour shirt is made from polyester, a petroleum-based textile. It’s also made with the company’s “Threadborne Microtechnology” and “anti-odor” technology, though UnderArmour doesn’t elaborate on what those are. Clothes labeled “anti-odor” usually contain nanosilver, making it not very green. 

Remember: Nanosilver fabrics release miniscule silver particles when they are washed. Silver is a potent antibiotic, which can be used when a person has been resistant to other antibiotics. Releasing too much nanosilver into the environment could result in silver’s anti-bacterial qualities becoming less effective when society needs them most. One 2013 study did note that people absorb nanosilver through their skin when they sweat, and a 2014 study found that nanosilver may lead to development of cell-damaging free radicals. 

Green Alternative: Atayne Run Hard Tread Lightly Men’s REC T Elite

Atayne makes athletic and casual clothes for men and women that don’t sacrifice values

for performance. The material for this classic quick-dry workout shirt is 100 percent recycled polyester made from Oeko-Tex 100 certified yarn, and is treated with a bluesign-approved zinc-based anti-microbial, which will keep it from smelling bad. 

Green Tip:  Most shirts that have a moisture-wicking quality are made out of polyester. Unlike natural fibers, polyester is not biodegradable. Polyester clothes made from recycled materials keep the material out of landfills, and they prevent the need to extract more petroleum from the Earth. In addition, clothing from truly green companies will never contain nanoparticles. 

1. Lay off the fertilizer.

A 2015 study by the Appalachian State University in North Carolina found that highly manicured lawns actually give off nitrous oxide, a greenhouse gas that’s 300 times more potent than carbon dioxide. Why? Owners are more likely to dump lots of nitrogen-based fertilizer in concentrated patches, and that fertilizer breaks down into nitrous oxide. While more studies are needed to confirm the findings, it’s just common sense that dumping chemicals onto your yard is bad for the planet. So be a little lazy, and let your yard get a little wilder. And if your garden needs an extra boost, use compost or other organic fertilizer. 

2. Say no to pesticides and herbicides, too. 

Pesticides and herbicides can foster “superweeds” and hardier-than-thou bugs that have grown immune to them. Plus, they contaminate waterways and contribute to turning rich, carbon-sequestering soil into dead dirt. Keep your yard and garden organic. Rodale Books offers plenty of organic gardening books and magazines to help. 

3. Plant a Climate Victory Garden. 

Green America’s (Re)Store It! program aims to promote regenerative agriculture, a type of farming that builds healthy soil and turns it into a carbon sink. (See our updated “Living, Regenerated Soil vs. Dead Dirt” graphic for more on how.)  A worldwide switch to regenerative farming could significantly help reverse climate change. Now, you can get in on the action and get to know your neighbors by setting up a Climate Victory Garden.

Any food garden can be a Climate Victory Garden. Inspired by the Allied Victory Gardens in WWII, these gardens turn the dirt in your backyard into a restorative, climate-cooling patch of healthy soil.  The campaign asks gardeners to commit to ten regenerative gardening principles: grow edible plants, keep soils covered, encourage biodiversity, plant perennials, ditch chemicals, compost, integrate crops and animals (not a must, but integrating animal manure and possibly chickens can make soil richer), use people power and not mechanization, rotate plants and crops, and get to know their garden and understand its efficiency and what works best for it.

Following these principles leads to food production that supports the local economy and soil health, while curbing erosion, pollution, and pests, increasing water retention, and decreasing runoff.

4. Compost your organic waste.

Mix food scraps and yard waste together to create magic—in the form of rich compost that is an ideal organic fertilizer for your garden and house plants. Wondering which type to buy? Check out our article, “Pick a Composter, Any Composter.” If you don’t have a large enough yard—or any yard at all—you can start a worm composting bin and shove it under your sink. The worms will do all the work for you—no smell, no muss, no fuss. We promise, they won’t escape and take over your household. See our article on how to start a worm bin.

5. Choose a low-emission lawnmower. 

If your homeowners’ association won’t let you allow your yard to go wild, keep your grass trimmed in as eco-friendly of a manner as possible. All-electric mowers don’t release extra pollution, and if you power them with renewable energy, they’re zero-emission. If you have a small yard or are game for a creative way to exercise, consider an old-fashioned push mower. 

We ask Green America staff members share some of their favorite green cleaning products. We hope this list helps you maintain an eco-friendly hom!

“At our house, we use several Seventh Generation products, particularly the Dishwasher Detergent Packs. These pods aren’t messy to put in the dishwasher, and they clean without chlorine, phosphates, or synthetic fragrances.
—Rob Hanson, Membership Marketing Manager 

“Dr. Bronner’s  Sal Suds Biodegradable Cleaner is my favorite product for everything from washing the floors to washing my dishes. It’s gentle on the skin, is biodegradable, and just gets things nice and clean.”  
—Dana Christianson, Membership Marketing Director 

“For my secondhand antique furniture, I am in love with Howard products. The Feed-n-Wax Wood Polisher and Conditioner protects the wood but also ‘feeds’ it with essential oils to keep it strong. They also have a butcher block oil that is wonderful.” 
—Christy Schwengel, Major Gifts Officer 

“The Truce Pet Odor Remover Spray works like Febreze to get rid of the stink of dogs, but it doesn’t take a chemist to understand the ingredients. (Don’t use this if you have cats; they don’t like essential oils.)”
—Rachel Feldman, Business Partnerships Manager

“I use BioKleen’s Bac-Out for both stains on my clothes and when my cat gets sick on the carpet. It really works for smell and stain.”  
—Beth Porter, Better Paper Project Director

“The Seventh Generation Free and Clear Natural Laundry Stain Remover is a friend to anyone who is clumsy. I’ve used it for lipstick stains and coffee spills. Once I use this, I never see the stains again.” 
—Caroline Chen, Social Justice Programs Manager

“My stove has a ceramic top, and I’m constantly spilling or splattering things on it. EarthStone’s KitchenStone helps me get it clean without chemicals and without spending days scrubbing!” 
—Tracy Fernandez Rysavy, Editor-in-Chief

“Molly’s Suds Liquid Laundry Detergent doesn’t have any dyes or fragrances, which I prefer as someone sensitive to scents. It’s really concentrated, so you can use less to get your clothes clean. And because it’s in a bag with a spout instead of a heavy plastic jug, it has a smaller eco-footprint.”
—Kathy Harget, Development Director

Now more than ever we need to take advantage of every positive economic action we can to build an economy and society that works for people and the planet.

If you own company stock directly, be sure to add “proxy power” to your action list. Yes – you can vote to pressure companies to be more transparent about their conduct related to issues such as human rights, gun control, climate change, fair pay, corporate lobbying, and the diversity of corporate boards. Shareholders have a voice -- so by not voting your shares you could be making it easier for companies to continue unfair and harmful practices -- like underpaying women.

The main proxy voting season is in the spring, timed to shareholder meetings, so shareholders will soon receive their proxy materials and voting ballots via postal or electronic mail. Once again, approximately 400 resolutions, at dozens of companies, on crucial social, environmental, and corporate governance issues will be addressed.

Your vote matters – especially when it comes to supporting social and environmental issues that corporate managers typically urge shareholders to oppose on the ballot. Voting to increase corporate transparency on key issues affecting workers, communities, and natural resources is an important first step toward improving corporate behavior.

Voting your proxies makes a difference, as Andy Behar, publisher of the Proxy Preview notes: “….the Trump administration continues to weaken government regulations that protect citizens from environmental harms and provide basic social rights. More than ever, it is clear that investors who use their voices as a powerful force for positive change can make a difference at companies that want to thrive and survive in the future.”

If you want to better understand your proxy power – including recent shareholder resolution trends, the rise of new investor coalitions, and key themes in the 2018 proxy season, you’ll want your own copy of the 2018 Proxy Preview. Green America is proud to co-sponsor the Proxy Preview, a “must read” for anyone interested in the shareholder resolution process. You can download your free copy here.

The Proxy Preview explains shareholder resolutions in clear terms and provides context for understanding resolutions’ recent history, who filed the resolutions, as well as lists of companies and the types of resolutions filed at them by concerned shareholders.

Not sure how to read and vote your proxy ballot? Click here for Green America’s proxy voting tips.

Pay attention to your proxy materials – and vote your values!

Damiva is a women's health company making 100% natural products for a women. Damiva started when Chia Chia Sun was shocked to discover that the women's products on the drugstore shelf contained so many chemicals.

When she found out that 85% of women in menopause have vaginal dryness and that the dryness worsens over time, her obvious question was:

"What would I use for the next 30 years?"

She wanted a product that was safe, chemical free and hormone free, and when she realized that no such product existed, Chia Chia and Gardiner decided they would remedy the situation. Now it's become their shared passion and making healthy, 100% natural products for women's health and beauty at any age.

We have been making Sioux style Native American Tipis in beautiful Oregon since 1970. We offer exceptional craftsmanship and beautiful artwork. We are women owned and operated, with 85% women in the workforce. We only source organically grown cotton, use low VOC paint, recycle most of our by-products and support Native American causes via our ongoing 'WeCare' Projects. Nomadics pays living wages for everybody and offers above average benefits for its employees. 

Our tipis are used as a space for meditation or quiet time, as a backyard gathering place, as permanent shelters for off-the-grid living, as airbnb or glampinghub rentals, as well as at Campgrounds, Retreat Centers, Educational Centers or Glamping Sites. 

Why ArT Wine Preserver?

We believe you can enjoy & explore wine, without committing to the whole bottle in one night and without wasting a single drop.

We exist to reduce waste and give you the flexibility to drink wine on your terms.

Our engineering insight came from a background in the leading non-abrasive preservation technology in the food & wine industry.

YOUR BENEFITS

• Flexibility to open a bottle glass of wine with dinner on Tuesday
• Drink better wine
• Perfect wine gift for wine enthusiasts and lovers

WHO USES ART

• Wine enthusiasts who don't always commit to a whole bottle (if you drink wine, this is YOU)
• Singles & those with traveling spouses
• Wineries, Tasting Rooms, wine professionals to preserve fragile sample bottles and brand
• Restaurants with strong wine lists

DIRECTIONS

1. Open wine bottle
2. Drink as much or little as desired
3. Spray 1-2 seconds of ArT in the bottle
4. Re-cork the bottle using a wine stopper (DO NOT USE VACUUM STYLE - they do not seal well)
5. Store wine bottle upright in a cool dark place.

ECO-FRIENDLY

The packaging is fully recyclable (after it is empty) in most US states. Argon recycles itself back to the atmosphere.

Buy ArT Wine Preserver now to Enjoy Your Wine - Longer

Bed and Wood is a high end online store for mattresses made from cotton and latex. Based in Oakton, Va., the founders grew up sleeping on surfaces from natural fibers and now share the passion of bringing these sleep products to American bedrooms. Pillows, mattress protectors and toppers complete their natural collection.