Justmeans's blogshttp://www.justmeans.com/editorials/corporatesocialresponsibility/4.htmlFri, 24 May 2013 10:58:35 GMThttp://www.justmeans.com en hourly 1http://www.justmeans.com/Global-Impact-Launches-New-Website/59493.htmlThu, 23 May 2013 19:44:18 GMTAntonio Pasolini AmeriCares, Save the Children, United Methodist Committee on Relief and Church World Servicethese are some of the organizations that will receive funds through the Global Impact Disaster Relief Fund to help victims of the Oklahoma tornado, which rendered five counties in that state Federal disaster areas.This is the kind of information that Global Impact's new website, Charity. Org, makes available to the public in a clean, streamlined website format. Global Impact raises funds for critical huma Read Full Article ]]> AmeriCares, Save the Children, United Methodist Committee on Relief and Church World Servicethese are some of the organizations that will receive funds through the Global Impact Disaster Relief Fund to help victims of the Oklahoma tornado, which rendered five counties in that state Federal disaster areas.This is the kind of information that Global Impact's new website, Charity. Org, makes available to the public in a clean, streamlined website format. Global Impact raises funds for critical humanitarian needs across the globe, and the new website was designed to reflect more accurately the objectives of the organization."We offer philanthropic solutions to both corporations and charities, all in an effort to secure funds to help the world's most vulnerable people. This new site helps us tell their story," said its marketing and communications director Joseph Mettimano.Visitors to the website can learn about the world's most vulnerable people and find out about the corporations and charities that are helping them. Organizations can also find out more how they can tap into Global Impact's expertise to achieve their socially responsible goals. It features videos, photos, news and commentary on the work done by Global Impact's partner charities in the developing world."We want this site to work not only as our organization's website, but also to serve as a source of information on global philanthropy and corporate social responsibility," added Mettimano.Image credit: Global Impact]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Scotiabank-EcoLiving-Awards-Finalists-Announced/59485.htmlTue, 21 May 2013 14:10:33 GMTAntonio Pasolini Nine companies that shine a new light on home energy efficiency products, services and solutions have been shortlisted for the 2013 Scotiabank EcoLiving Awards, a partnership between Scotiabank and Green Living Enterprises. The total prize is $75,000 in award incentives and the winners will be announced on June 6 during a gala ceremony at the Art Gallery in Toronto.The finalists were chosen from 89 entries, up 28 percent from last year's edition of the award. As part of the selection criteria, a Read Full Article ]]> Nine companies that shine a new light on home energy efficiency products, services and solutions have been shortlisted for the 2013 Scotiabank EcoLiving Awards, a partnership between Scotiabank and Green Living Enterprises. The total prize is $75,000 in award incentives and the winners will be announced on June 6 during a gala ceremony at the Art Gallery in Toronto.The finalists were chosen from 89 entries, up 28 percent from last year's edition of the award. As part of the selection criteria, all awards recipients must show they can attract the public's interest in energy efficiency through their submitted products or solutions.Judges include some luminaries of the sustainability community in Canada, including Valerie Becaert, Executive Director of the FQRNT/FQRSC; Thomas Mueller, Founding Director of the Canada Green Building Council; Yves Perrier, Architect and Sustainable Building consultant; Ed Whittingham, Executive Director of the Pembina Institute; and Tyler Hamilton, Editor-in-Chief and associate publisher of Corporate Knights."More Canadian homeowners are looking for energy saving solutions in response to rising costs," says Laurie Simmonds, CEO and President, Green Living Enterprises. "Scotiabank is taking a leadership role by recognizing businesses, innovators and students implementing and developing energy-saving ideas that are also end-user friendly, and hold the potential for mass adoption."Besides the award incentives, the 2013 winners will receive an inspiring sculpture created by award-winning goldsmith, crystal artist and designer Mark Raynes Roberts.The finalists are:Category: Scotiabank EcoLiving Business Leadership Award ($50,000) Ecobee (Toronto, ON) for Home IQ - A Wi-Fi thermostat, online web portal and smart phone app that integrate directly with Smart Meters and time-of-use electricity rates to help people understand, manage and reduce their energy consumption without sacrificing comfort. Enerpro Systems Corp./Olympic International Agencies (North Vancouver, BC) for SMARTFORME - An efficient and cost effective building energy system that is integrated with advanced metering technology to measure and manage resource consumption to serve the needs of the development industry, municipal authorities and the real estate consumer. Lanefab Design/Build (Vancouver, BC) for Net-Positive Urban Infill, laneway houses - Integrated design and construction of small scale fully independent homes with energy efficiency, design quality, and scalable-sustainability, while adding density to neighbourhoods and preserving existing community homes.Category: Scotiabank EcoLiving Innovators Award ($15,000) CircuitMeter Inc. (Ajax, ON) for CircuitMeter Residential Sub-metering Technology - A simple and affordable sub-metering system that identifies energy waste, operational anomalies, and off-spec behavior of equipment, to drive down energy costs by 27-34% in non metered multi-residential buildings, and save provincial terawatt-hours annually. Quinzee (Toronto, ON) - A web and mobile application that is gamifying and socializing energy use and enabling Ontarians with smart meters to be smarter homeowners. Utilizing consumer social benchmarking as a motivator for influencing efficient energy choices and behaviors consumers can easily track and compare energy use free of charge. Toronto Atmospheric Fund (Toronto, ON) for Energy Saving Performance Agreement - A customized non-debt financing product for building owners to demonstrate the viability of earning both financial and greenhouse gas reduction return on energy efficiency investments.Category: Scotiabank EcoLiving Student Leadership Award ($10,000) Benjamin Gillies (Winnipeg, MB) for FAACE Apartment Complex - FAACE (Functional, Affordable, Attractive, Compact and Efficient) Apartment Complex is a prototype for a new apartment complex that uses the best in modern design and furnishing innovation to provide more compact and efficient apartments that offer functionality, attractiveness and the ability to reduce each occupant's carbon footprint in a number of significant ways. McGill University (Montreal, QC) for The McGill Energy Project - A collaboration of students, faculty, and staff that combined research, innovative technologies and team work to create targeted savings in residence buildings, laboratories, and in heat and water networks to reduce McGill's 20 million dollar annual energy bill. Universite de Montreal, Faculte de l'amenagement, Ecole de design industriel (Montreal, QC) for Boltzmann Residential Energy Storage - A thermodynamic water heater designed to be operated in synergy with a split system air conditioner that provides an ingenious energy recovery system that allows for a significant reduction and leveling of electric consumption.Image credit: 2013 Scotiabank EcoLiving Awards]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Chrysler-Foundation-Helps-Flood-Victims-in-Howard-and-Tipton-Counties/59479.htmlMon, 20 May 2013 08:45:55 GMTAntonio Pasolini As a consequence of recent floods, almost 1,500 people have been affected by the flood in Howard and Tipton Counties in Indiana. Authorities say it's the worst flood on record. The Chrysler Foundation has announced grants amounting to $50,000 to help United Way of Howard County and Tipton County Foundation in their efforts to move residents into permanent housing."The Chrysler Foundation recognizes that natural disasters such as this can have overwhelming social and economic impact on both indiv Read Full Article ]]> As a consequence of recent floods, almost 1,500 people have been affected by the flood in Howard and Tipton Counties in Indiana. Authorities say it's the worst flood on record. The Chrysler Foundation has announced grants amounting to $50,000 to help United Way of Howard County and Tipton County Foundation in their efforts to move residents into permanent housing."The Chrysler Foundation recognizes that natural disasters such as this can have overwhelming social and economic impact on both individuals and communities," said Brian Harlow, Vice President, Head of NAFTA Powertrain Operations and Global Powertrain Manufacturing Engineering - Chrysler Group LLC. "Chrysler hopes that by joining hands with United Way of Howard County and the Tipton County Foundation, we can help area residents get back on their feet and into their homes."Earlier this month the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) approved Gov. Mike Pence's request for assistance and made local people and businesses eligible for low-interest loans. Besides Howard and Tipton, flood victims in Grant, Blackford, Carroll, Cass, Clinton, Delaware, Hamilton, Huntington, Madison, Miami, Wabash and Wells are eligible.Those interested in making donations can do soonline or send checks to 210 W Walnut, Kokomo, IN 46901. Write: HoCoFlood in the memo line. Checks of any amount should be made to "Tipton County Foundation," and for the memo state "Disaster Relief." Mail donations to: TCF at P.O. Box 412, Tipton, IN 46072.For further information, call the Foundation at 765-675-1940.Image credit: Chrysler Group]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Air-Travel-Takes-On-Environmental-Challenges-the-Industry-Faces/59442.htmlFri, 17 May 2013 08:39:35 GMTAntonio Pasolini Scientists from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have issued a release saying the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has reached the feared milestone of 400 ppm (parts per million). The last time there was this level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere was three million years ago when the Arctic region was 8C (46.4 F) warmer. The scientists say more needs to be done to prevent the release of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which comes mainly from the burning of fossil fu Read Full Article ]]> Scientists from National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration have issued a release saying the amount of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere has reached the feared milestone of 400 ppm (parts per million). The last time there was this level of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere was three million years ago when the Arctic region was 8C (46.4 F) warmer. The scientists say more needs to be done to prevent the release of carbon dioxide in the atmosphere, which comes mainly from the burning of fossil fuels.In the United States, electricity is the biggest source of emissions because the generation of electricity there requires the burning of fossil fuels. According to the Environmental Protection Agency, in 2011 it accounted for about 38 percent of the total. Transportation comes second, since it also depends on fossil fuels such as gasoline and diesel. It amounts to 31 percent of the U.S. CO2 emissions. This includes all transportation industries, such as land and marine transportation, rail and air travel.Air travel deserves special attention since, as far as transportation is concerned, it is where frequent travelers clock up most of their carbon footprint. The industry as a whole accounts for only five percent of the total (or 677 million tonnes in 2012, according to IATA), well behind the livestock industry which, according to a UN report from 2006, is responsible for 18 percent of the total. But air travel's share of CO2 emissions is set to grow because volume is outpacing gains in flight fuel efficiency. Meanwhile emissions from other sectors are falling, said the New York Times.The air travel sector is taking steps to mitigate its impact on the environment, though. Bloomberg reported this week that Airbus SAS, Air Canada (AC/A) and BioFuelNet Canada have entered an agreement to study clean jet fuel, said Business Week. The aim is to eventually supply the Canadian carrier and reduce its emissions. The agreement was signed in Montreal on Monday 13. The first step is a study due to be completed by the end of the year. The study will look at different processes and raw materials available for biofuel production.Algae has emerged as a viable candidate for sustainable raw material for jet fuel. Back in 2010, the Pentagon announced that U.S. jets would soon use a new type algae-based fuel. It contracted, Solazyme, a bioproduct company in San Francisco, to provide 100% algae-based jet fuel. Solazyme sent 1,500 gallons of Soladiesel to the Navy for testing in July, and in September the company announced it satisfied its contract with the Navy by providing 20,000 gallons. It was the largest microbial shipboard fuel delivery in history.Biofuels are definitely where the air transport sector will be looking at to reduce its emissions. However, the biofuel industry first needs to be scale up to commercial production in order to reach competitive levels. For now, they are several times more expensive than fossil jet fuels.But it's not only on fuels that airlines are working to boost their green credentials. Earlier this week Southwest Airlines released its latest triple bottom line report outlining the actions it has taken and the results achieved. The company said in 2012 it diverted nearly 2,900 tons of material, or the weight equivalent of more than 69 Boeing 737-700s, from landfills and into recycling facilities with its co-mingled recycling program. This is a seven percent increase over 2011 figures, exceeding the goal of a 2.5 percent improvement.Last week at IATA's Fuel Forum in Berlin, CEO Tony Tyler made some remarks that signal industry concerns over its future and its relationship to the environment. The industry has set goals reduce its environmental impact that include improving fuel efficiency by 1.5% annually until 2020; achieving carbon-neutral growth from 2020 (CNG2020); cutting our net emissions in half by 2050 compared to 2005 levels; investing in new technology."Aviation is committed to the use of biofuels. They represent a tremendous opportunity for sustainable growth as well as employment and economic development and we encourage governments to take the next steps toward enabling industrial scale production so that they may be made affordable over the long term," he said.Image credit: Southwest Airlines]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Aeroplan-Members-Share-A-Milestone--300-Million-Aeroplan-Miles-To-Charities/59412.htmlFri, 17 May 2013 08:00:00 GMTRobyn Hall It started quietly seven years ago, with one web page online inviting Aeroplan loyalty program members to share their Aeroplan Miles with seven Canadian charitable partners. Seven years on, Aeroplan Members have donated more than 300 million miles to NGO's in Canada and around the world to complete their missions.Currently, Aeroplan's Beyond Miles program has 10 partner organizations and more than 400 Charitable Pooling Accounts, but the range of causes supported is also impressive. To name a fe Read Full Article ]]> It started quietly seven years ago, with one web page online inviting Aeroplan loyalty program members to share their Aeroplan Miles with seven Canadian charitable partners. Seven years on, Aeroplan Members have donated more than 300 million miles to NGO's in Canada and around the world to complete their missions.Currently, Aeroplan's Beyond Miles program has 10 partner organizations and more than 400 Charitable Pooling Accounts, but the range of causes supported is also impressive. To name a few examples: high-schoolers travelling to volunteer on an international project for Free the Children; Ballet Jrgen Canada bringing dance to communities across Canada; and Veterinarians Without Borders supporting healthy animals and communities.Beyond Miles Builds A Community of GivingBeyond Miles is a Canadian social purpose initiative of Aimia, the international loyalty group and Aeroplan's parent company. Aimia started out in 1984 as Aeroplan, the frequent flyer program for Air Canada. Since then, Groupe Aeroplan, now Aimia, has gone global, owning a portfolio of loyalty management programs including Nectar in the UK and other programs in Chile, Italy and more.The Aeroplan member base in Canada is a force within Aimia, numbering 4.6 million members. And the Beyond Miles program has evolved its engagement with this group, especially online. With a full Beyond Miles microsite and more social media activity, "we have identified a community of giving within Aeroplan's overall customer base," says Alden Hadwen, Director, Community Engagement, Canada at Aimia.The interactive website has also facilitated some program innovations. The program began with partners selected by Aeroplan based on feedback from its members, but members can now support a range of charities in the arts, education, environment, health and youth program and more. "It's been an evolution. Members are showing a lot of support for smaller charitable organizations in their own backyard that have meaning for them. There is now fifty/fifty support between partners and smaller organizations such as Oceans Initiatives," according to Hadwen.Once a charity is on board, they can receive donations of miles throughout the year, and they are also allowed to conduct a 30-day marketing campaign to gain a target of miles once a year - with Aeroplan contributing the last 10% of the miles to reach their goal. That means a lot of social media outreach within the Beyond Miles community of giving."It's about peer-to-peer fundraising, marketing, sharing concern, and helping each other, all through the context of Aeroplan. It's a real fulfillment of what we have been trying to achieve," says Hadwen.It can also stimulate some fun educational outreach with school groups and others. On World Oceans Day, June 8, for every image of a whale uploaded to Aeroplan's Facebook site, Aeroplan will donate miles to Oceans Initiative's pooling account to support their mission to protect marine life and the study of whales and other sea mammals.It isn't always about flights though. Charitable organizations can use the donated miles for hotels, rental cars or infrastructure needs. For example, NGOs can redeem donated miles for refurbished recycled computer equipment. Aeroplan also offsets 100 per cent of all carbon emissions from flights taken by Beyond Miles partners using donated miles.70 Miles Donated for Every New Twitter Follower and Retweet of anniversary message on May 17 To celebrate another major milestone, the 7th anniversary of the Beyond Miles program, Aeroplan is donating 70 miles to the Beyond Miles program for every new Twitter follower or RT of @BeyondMiles on May 17.More about Beyond Miles: www.aeroplan.com/donateMore about Aeroplan: www.aeroplan.comMore about Aimia: http://www.aimia.com/]]>http://www.justmeans.com/National-PTA-and-Discovery-Education-Hit-the-Road-to-Fight-Bullying/59359.htmlWed, 15 May 2013 06:41:13 GMTAntonio Pasolini Bullying is not a new problem but it's one that has escalated and gained visibility in the last decades. It can destroy lives and cause untold misery to people who find themselves targeted by bullies. School children are the biggest victims of bullying, which results in a complex challenge to parents and education professionals.National PTA and Discovery Education have joined the efforts to prevent bullying with a series of town halls that launched last week. Besides prevention, the halls will d Read Full Article ]]> Bullying is not a new problem but it's one that has escalated and gained visibility in the last decades. It can destroy lives and cause untold misery to people who find themselves targeted by bullies. School children are the biggest victims of bullying, which results in a complex challenge to parents and education professionals.National PTA and Discovery Education have joined the efforts to prevent bullying with a series of town halls that launched last week. Besides prevention, the halls will discuss mental health assistance with students, parents, educators and other community members across the nation. The program was developed to create a meaningful response to President Obama's call for action on the issue.The project kicked off in Charlotte on May 9 and will move to Cincinatti on June 20, plus other cities throughout the year. Of these, some of the town halls will focus on family-school partnerships while others will focus on student interventions. All conferences will feature a taped message from Vice President Joe Biden and his wife Dr. Jill Biden, in addition to an experienced panel of experts who will provide information on and solutions to bullying behaviors and on how to access mental health assistance.The Cincinnati town hall will be part of the 2013 National PTA Convention and Youth Summit this June. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan and Kari Byron, co-host of MythBusters, will be featured speakers at the town hall. Discoveryeducation.com also will host a wide assortment of content that addresses contemporary issues students face around bullying."The students in our nation have a right to receive a high-quality education to prepare for their futures, and if they cannot go to school without fearing for their safety, they cannot exercise that right," said Bill Goodwyn, CEO, Discovery Education.Image credit: National PTA]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Canadians-Respond-to-Bangladesh-Factory-Collapse/59328.htmlTue, 14 May 2013 06:23:55 GMTRobyn Hall As the bad news from Bangladesh continues, with the death toll from the Rana Plaza building collapses surpassing a gut-wrenching 1,000, and additional deaths in a separate factory fire last week, Canadians, from corporations to NGOs, are responding to the tragic circumstances in a variety of ways.In Canada, the building collapse has been a major media story with a big focus on national grocery retailerLoblaw Companies Limited and their low-price fashion brand Joe Fresh1. A small portion of Joe F Read Full Article ]]> As the bad news from Bangladesh continues, with the death toll from the Rana Plaza building collapses surpassing a gut-wrenching 1,000, and additional deaths in a separate factory fire last week, Canadians, from corporations to NGOs, are responding to the tragic circumstances in a variety of ways.In Canada, the building collapse has been a major media story with a big focus on national grocery retailerLoblaw Companies Limited and their low-price fashion brand Joe Fresh1. A small portion of Joe Fresh clothing was produced in the collapsed factory (the Joe Fresh brand is produced in 47 factories in Bangladesh).2 The collapse comes as the brand is expanding into the US from its base in Canada, recently opening shops inside 683 JC Penneys across the US.3One of Canada's largest private-sector employers, Loblaw has devoted a lot of energy in recent years to its corporate responsibility strategy.4 That footprint is clearly visible in the Loblaw response to the disaster. Communicating quickly, the company went on to be one of the few brands globally to take early public responsibility and announce compensation for families.5Both Loblaw Executive Chairman Galen Weston Jr. and Joe Fresh Creative Director Joe Mimran were visibly in front of the issue, addressing the media at their Annual General Meeting on May 2, 2013. Weston Jr., next-generation public face of the business, is already strongly associated with the brand in national grocery marketing.Weston Jr. and Mimran made three commitments6: a relief fund for families; the addition to their factory audit criteria of local construction and building code compliance; and a commitment to add on-the-ground employees to monitor compliance with organizational values. Loblaw senior managers are visiting Bangladesh to address the situation.In terms of their immediate response, Loblaw has been timely, compassionate and committed to staying in country to affect change. But, there is also a sense that Joe Fresh is on probation with some parts of the Canadian public, depending on the longer-term response to the issue.7That is where the debate is now focused in Canada. At the collective level, the Canadian retail community met through Retail Council of Canada, announcing that it will develop an updated set of responsible trade guidelines, join a North American coalition of retail industry associations on the issue, and through the coalition, work with the International Labour Organization, the Bangladeshi government and others to align with plans to address safety in the garment industry.8Twenty-three Canadian trade unions, NGOs and others sent a joint letter to Loblaw urging them to commit to the joint fire and building safety program with the global garment worker union IndustriALL.9I have seen at least one No-Loblaws sign in a shop window in Kensington Market, Toronto. But others do not advocate a boycott of Joe Fresh or Bangladeshi-produced clothing, including green folks, given the impact on workers who depend on the low wages for their livelihoods in a desperately poor country.10The Canadian-based Maquila Solidarity Network recommends Canadians support an Avaaz.org online petition urging Gap and H&M CEOs sign the Accord on Fire and Building Safety in Bangladesh, the IndustriALL efforts, as well as engaging with Joe Fresh through social media.11 (H&M has now signed on to the Accord, but Joe Fresh has not as yet.)12Forward motion will have to come from collaboration between business and government, recognizing worker human rights, right to organize, safety rights, and engaging on infrastructure.As others have said, if we look in our closets, most of us are touched by the issue. Choosing to boycott one brand will not abate the demand and expectation consumers now have for instant fashion at a "value" price.How much can price move to ensure proper infrastructure for garment production, and, once in place, to ensure businesses remain in country long term? This is the competitive corner clothing brands have to work their way out of together through collaborative initiatives like the Sustainable Apparel Coalition, and hopefully, through the long-term effects of consolidating global CR standards.1,6 Joe Fresh website. Retrieved from http://www.joefresh.com/en/2 Kopun, F. (2013, 2 May). Toronto Star. Bangladesh factory collapse: Loblaw to audit structural safety of suppliers' buildings. Retrieved fromhttp://www.thestar.com/business/2013/05/02/bangladesh_factory_collapse_unions_put_pressure_on_loblaw_joe_fresh.html3 Kopun, F. (2013, 14 March). Toronto Star. Joe Fresh debuts stores at J.C. Penney locations across the U.S. Retrieved fromhttp://www.thestar.com/business/2013/03/14/joe_fresh_debuts_stores_at_jc_penney_locations_across_the_us.html4 Responsibility. Loblaws website. Retrieved fromhttp://www.loblaw.ca/English/responsibility/default.aspx5. Taylor, S. (2013, 29 April). Thomson Reuters. Canada's Loblaw joins Primark in Bangladesh compensation pledge.Retrieved from http://www.theglobeandmail.com/feeds/thomson-reuters/canadas-loblaw-joins-primark-in-bangladesh-compensation-pledge/article11623232/#dashboard/follows/7,11 Strapagiel, L. (2o13, 29 April). Canada.com. Don't boycott Joe Fresh (yet). Retrieved fromhttp://o.canada.com/2013/04/29/dont-boycott-joe-fresh-yet/8 Retail Council of Canada. (2013, 30 April). Statement on Bangladesh. Retrieved fromhttp://www.newswire.ca/en/story/1155829/retail-council-of-canada-statement-bangladesh9 Maquila Solidarity Network (2013, 1 May). Rana Plaza Bangladesh Canadian Letter. Retrieved fromhttp://en.maquilasolidarity.org/sites/maquilasolidarity.org/files/RanaPlazaBangladesh-CanadianLetter-Loblaw-AGM-2013-05-01.pdf10 Vasil, A. (2013). Now Magazine. Should we boycott Joe Fresh? Retrieved fromhttp://www.nowtoronto.com/lifestyle/story.cfm?content=19245512 Maquila Solidarity Network (2013, 13 May). Website. Retrieved fromhttp://en.maquilasolidarity.org/]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Canadian-Retailers-to-Ban-Sow-Gestation-Crates/59270.htmlFri, 10 May 2013 18:02:09 GMTAntonio Pasolini Sow gestation crates are one of the cruelest components of intensive animal farming. An increasing number of retailers are dropping suppliers who use them. The latest announcement related to the topic was made by the Retail Council of Canada, who said that eight of the largest Canadian supermarket chains, including Walmart Canada, Costco Canada, Metro, Loblaw, Safeway Canada, Federated Co-operatives, Sobeys and Co-op Atlantic, will move away from this method of confinement in their supply system Read Full Article ]]> Sow gestation crates are one of the cruelest components of intensive animal farming. An increasing number of retailers are dropping suppliers who use them. The latest announcement related to the topic was made by the Retail Council of Canada, who said that eight of the largest Canadian supermarket chains, including Walmart Canada, Costco Canada, Metro, Loblaw, Safeway Canada, Federated Co-operatives, Sobeys and Co-op Atlantic, will move away from this method of confinement in their supply systems over the next nine years. Humane Society International/Canada and The Humane Society of the United States welcomed the announcement.More than one million breeding sows are kept on Canadian farms, the majority of them confined in cages known as gestation crates. These are cages used to tightly confine breeding pigs to the point where the animals can't even turn around for nearly their entire lives. The animals are subsequently transferred into another crate to give birth, re-impregnated, and put back into a gestation crate. This happens pregnancy after pregnancy for their entire lives, adding up to years of virtual immobilization. This confinement system has come under fire from veterinarians, farmers, animal welfare advocates, animal scientists, consumers and others.The announcement comes at a time when the National Farm Animal Care Council, a governmental funded organization, is reviewing and revising its Codes of Practice and considering a nationwide phase-out of gestation crates."Increasingly, stakeholder expectations have been changing and industry is being encouraged to shift towards alternative [gestation crate-free] housing practices. The Retail Council of Canada believes that sows should be housed in an environment where their pregnancy, health and well-being are taken into highest consideration," the Retail Council of Canada said in a press release.Similar announcements were made recently by other food companies, signaling a reversal in a three-decade-old trend in the pork industry that leaves most breeding pigs confined day and night in gestation crates during their four-month pregnancy.Image credit: Humane Society International/Canada]]>http://www.justmeans.com/TerraPass-Helps-VivaTerra-Green-Up-its-Shipping/59261.htmlThu, 09 May 2013 19:37:59 GMTAntonio Pasolini Online and catalog green lifestyle retailer VivaTerra will make its operations even greener by purchasing carbon offsets and renewable energy credits (RECs) from TerraPass, a leading provider of such products.Customers will be given the choice to purchase carbon offsets during check-out in order to mitigate the carbon footprint of their packages, similarly to airline passengers who choose this option before flying.The $1 carbon offset add-on ?reduces greenhouse gas emissions ?that equal to ?turn Read Full Article ]]> Online and catalog green lifestyle retailer VivaTerra will make its operations even greener by purchasing carbon offsets and renewable energy credits (RECs) from TerraPass, a leading provider of such products.Customers will be given the choice to purchase carbon offsets during check-out in order to mitigate the carbon footprint of their packages, similarly to airline passengers who choose this option before flying.The $1 carbon offset add-on ?reduces greenhouse gas emissions ?that equal to ?turning off a laptop for about ?four? months and goes to support the Red Hills Wind Farm in Oklahoma. This project puts renewable energy on the grid in an area that is predominantly powered by coal.Recently?,? TerraPass helped Colby College boost its sustainability credentials when it helped the organization to invest in greenhouse gas reduction at the City of Presque Isle Landfill. The investment helped Colby reach its carbon neutrality, a projected that spanned a decade. Revenue from these offsets directly funds reduction in the landfill's greenhouse gas emissions.TerraPass's carbon offsets are 100% verified against accepted standards by independent third party verifiers. The company's primary standards are the Verified Carbon Standard and the Climate Action Reserve.Image credit: TerraPass]]>http://www.justmeans.com/A-Farm-Worker-Speaks--Fair-Trade-Makes-a-Real-Difference/59240.htmlThu, 09 May 2013 10:53:27 GMTJulie Fahnestock After fair trade certification of La Revancha, Fair Trade USA is hopeful that salaries for farm workers will increase up to 50% over time, as they have seen in banana and tea, fair trade certified estates. However, wage increases are at the discretion of the farm owner and ultimately,are based on sales. Fair trade does require estate owners to meet the minimum wage standards of the country. Leonardo told me that his boss is, at the least, currently meeting these standards.But perhaps more than h Read Full Article ]]> After fair trade certification of La Revancha, Fair Trade USA is hopeful that salaries for farm workers will increase up to 50% over time, as they have seen in banana and tea, fair trade certified estates. However, wage increases are at the discretion of the farm owner and ultimately,are based on sales. Fair trade does require estate owners to meet the minimum wage standards of the country. Leonardo told me that his boss is, at the least, currently meeting these standards.But perhaps more than higher wages, Leonardo is very excited about the fair trade premium. When I asked him what his farm would do with the premium his eyes lit up and in less than twenty seconds he rambled off a long list in Spanish,the priority being more access to water on the farm. "We need to invest in clean water. We don't have access to water when we need it. In the fields we sweat like pigs. We want the farm to distribute water to different sources. They are building more places for water." "We also want water to distribute to each house. People bring the water from a central location. People want water in their homes."Just as in fair trade certification for cooperatives, farm workers, even temporary farm workers, democratically elect a fair trade committee. The committee then decides how to use the fair trade premium. There is no intervention by the owner on this decision. Leonardo was elected to be part of this committee and specifically as one of the two people to manage the premium. "Now and in the future, I'm going to be a witness and share if the premium arrived or not at La Revancha."After more water access, he wants to see the premium used for educational and health care needs. "Children need books, pens, backpacks for schools. Teachers need training materials. And we have no center for medicine. The hospital is very far from farms. We walk two hours to the hospital. We also need vitamins."I asked Leonardo if he was part of the decision-making process in regards to La Revancha beginning the fair trade certification process. "Yes, I thought fair trade was a good way to give us the power. I think fair trade will give me tools and freedom to work with more respect, more peace, more rights. It wasn't just before for us. If the boss buys bad food, we can't say, "I don't like it." If they treat us with injustice, I know things have to change now. Yes, if there is a problem with injustice I know I can contact Fair Trade USA. I trust in Fair Trade USA. This is evidence here that fair trade is helping us, my people. I hope that someday they will be here. We are changing our condition. We are improving our conditions. I want to come back to tell you if it's working or not.""Do you think fair trade will raise your living conditions?" I asked him. "I have faith that it can bring us out of poverty, but it depends on you," he answered me with a big grin.And in some ways Leonardo's right, isn't he? We, the consumer, are an essential part of the equation. The more of us that commit to purchasing only fairly traded coffee the higher the sales and essentially, the better the chance his small town of La Dalia has of receiving water access in their homes. La Revancha is still in the auditing phase of fair trade certification, but Fair Trade USA hopes that within the next few months they will receive their certification and be on their way to selling 100% of their productions as fair trade. They will be the first fair trade estate in Nicaragua and the 6th of twelve pilotprojects to obtain fair trade certification. Through third-party auditors, like the Sustainable Food Lab and SCS Global Services, Fair Trade USA will monitor the pilots, measuring impact with strategic indicators over the next two years. After the two-year period,Fair Trade USA hopes to assess whether or not they are headed towards their goal of 'fair trade for all.'Many thanks to Leonardo for sharing his story with me. I celebrate you and the many, hard working, farm workers you represent this World Fair Trade Day.Stay tuned for the second part of this piece- a deeper look into the impact of fair trade on plantations and the impact this is or isn't having on cooperatives.]]>http://www.justmeans.com/New-Paper-Shows-Fracking-Drilling-Concentrates-in-Water-Pressed-Areas/59220.htmlTue, 07 May 2013 14:52:10 GMTAntonio Pasolini A new paper sends an extra word of environmental caution to policy makers and industry leaders regarding hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking, a type of gas drilling. A new Ceres research paper on water use in areas with fracking operations shows that a significant portion of this activity is happening in water stressed regions of the United States, especially in Texas and Colorado. Both states are in the midst of prolonged drought conditions.The report was compiled with data on well dri Read Full Article ]]> A new paper sends an extra word of environmental caution to policy makers and industry leaders regarding hydraulic fracturing, also known as fracking, a type of gas drilling. A new Ceres research paper on water use in areas with fracking operations shows that a significant portion of this activity is happening in water stressed regions of the United States, especially in Texas and Colorado. Both states are in the midst of prolonged drought conditions.The report was compiled with data on well drilling and water use provided by FracFocus.org, and water stress indicator maps developed by the World Resources Institute (WRI). The research shows that nearly 47 percent of the wells were developed in water basins with high or extremely high water stress. The FracFocus' data was collected on 25,450 wells in operation from January 2011 through September 2012.FracFocus.org, launched in 2011 as a voluntary national hydraulic fracturing chemical registry, is a database that provides the location and date that each oil and gas well was developed and the chemical additives and total volume of water injected down each well. WRI's water stress indicator maps are part of a recently launched Aqueduct Water Risk Atlas, which provides a comprehensive, high-resolution picture of water-related risks worldwide. By linking the two datasets together through matching latitude and longitude coordinates, the report provides insights about the extent and distribution of well production activity in regions with water competition challenges.The paper concludes that industry efforts underway, such as expanded use of recycled water and non-freshwater resources, need to be scaled up along with better water management planning if shale energy production is to grow as projected.Among the recommendations for companies and regulators are requirements for companies to set quantifiable water use targets, including recycling and non-freshwater use targets; comprehensive mandatory disclosure by companies of how much freshwater, non-freshwater and recycled water they are using region by region as well as how much water is returning to the surface and where it is ending up; ensure that companies have a local stakeholder engagement process in place on water issues.Image credit: Ceres]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Farm-Credit-Canada-Sets-Ambitious-Goal-to-Drive-Away-Hunger/59191.htmlTue, 07 May 2013 13:04:29 GMTRobyn Hall Aims to Collect Five Million Pounds of Food for Canadian Food BanksCollecting a record five million pounds of food for Canada's food banks to mark the 10th anniversary of the FCC Drive Away Hunger programthat's the BHAG, or Big Hairy Audacious Goal that Farm Credit Canada (FCC) and its partners have set for themselves this year.When it comes to cause-company fit, a nation-wide food drive is a natural extension for FCC. As Canada's largest lender to the agriculture sector, it is the job of this n Read Full Article ]]> Aims to Collect Five Million Pounds of Food for Canadian Food BanksCollecting a record five million pounds of food for Canada's food banks to mark the 10th anniversary of the FCC Drive Away Hunger programthat's the BHAG, or Big Hairy Audacious Goal that Farm Credit Canada (FCC) and its partners have set for themselves this year.When it comes to cause-company fit, a nation-wide food drive is a natural extension for FCC. As Canada's largest lender to the agriculture sector, it is the job of this national Crown corporation to support and advance the industry, and the producers and agri-business owners who grow and process our food.FCC's Drive Away Hunger campaign started 10 years ago when an FCC employeedrove a farm tractor and trailer through communities in rural Ontario, collecting food. The tradition continues 10 years later, with tours happening in communities across the country to collect food and cash donations that will go directly to food banks."Five million pounds is a lot of food, but the problem of hunger weighs heavily on everyone and we are proud to do our part to help feed those less fortunate," said FCC President and CEO Greg Stewart, noting that hunger touches nearly a million Canadians each month, many of whom are children. Drive Away Hunger is one of Food Bank Canada's top 10 food drives, donating 10 million pounds of food since 2003.FCC's Drive Away Hunger campaign is particularly focused on rural hunger. There was a 30% increase in food bank use nationally between 2008 and 2012, with hunger affecting many in rural Canada.1 Rural food banks can also face challenges such as extra transportation costs in getting food to their locations.2Supporting food banks is a positive way to strengthen and support rural communities. This is a task close to the hearts of FCC employees who also live and work in the same areas where agriculture is centered.Farm Credit Canada and its program will be collecting food and cash donations in its field offices across Canada from May 7 to October 18. And there will be food collection tours taking place the week of October 14 in Alberta, Ontario, Quebec, Prince Edward Island and Saskatchewan.The major program partners supporting the Drive are BDO, a national accounting and financial advisory firm, the agri-business Parrish and Heimbecker Limited (New Life Mills) and Windset Farms.Individuals can get involved by dropping off a donation of food or cash to any FCC office or tour partner between May 7 to October 18, or by coming out and donating directly to a tour in your area. For more information or to donate online, visit www.fccdriveawayhunger.ca or call 1-855-427-6207.Drive Away Hunger is only one aspect of FCC's corporate social responsibility (CSR) program, which is based on the five pillars of agriculture and food, customers, community, employees and the environment. Among many activities, check out their Energy Loan to help farmers switch to renewable energy. Learn more about CSR at FCC.1 Food Banks Canada (2012). Hunger Count 2012. Retrieved from http://www.foodbankscanada.ca/getmedia/3b946e67-fbe2-490e-90dc-4a313dfb97e5/HungerCount2012.pdf.aspx?ext=.pdf2 Food Banks Canada (2013). Rural Support Program. Retrieved from http://www.foodbankscanada.ca/About-Us/Programs/Rural-Support-Program.aspx]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Otis-Sustainability-Alliance-Draws-Top-Apparel-Brands-Nike-and-Disney/59187.htmlTue, 07 May 2013 01:04:32 GMTVikas Vij Nike (NYSE: NKE) and Disney (NYSE: DIS) are among the first apparel brands to partner with the Otis Sustainability Alliance, an organization that aims to promote environmental, social and economic sustainability. The alliance is a unique partnership between the fashion industry and higher education, which has also drawn several other leading apparel brands such as Eddie Bauer, Patagonia, Todd Oldham and Quiksilver.The alliance has been launched by the Otis College of Art and Design. Alliance mem Read Full Article ]]> Nike (NYSE: NKE) and Disney (NYSE: DIS) are among the first apparel brands to partner with the Otis Sustainability Alliance, an organization that aims to promote environmental, social and economic sustainability. The alliance is a unique partnership between the fashion industry and higher education, which has also drawn several other leading apparel brands such as Eddie Bauer, Patagonia, Todd Oldham and Quiksilver.The alliance has been launched by the Otis College of Art and Design. Alliance members will team up with and educate Otis faculty and students about the sustainable business practices and priorities in the fashion industry. Students will receive the necessary training and a vision to design more sustainable products.The LA-based design school already offers a sustainability minor, in which students learn about developing sustainable systems and strategies in art and design. The minor is a highly popular program at Otis, and allows the students to work for leading organizations such as Nike/Hurley, Todd Oldham, Yeohlee, Hape and Billabon. Students get opportunities to work on design projects involving recycling, reuse and sustainable product development.Global apparel brands have been increasingly involved in fostering partnerships in recent years to create more sustainable production processes and encourage apparel reuse and recycling. Nike, NASA, USAID and the US Department of State have recently launched an initiative that encourages producers and others to develop new, sustainable materials.Nike has also entered into a partnership with Bluesign Technologies this year with an aim to use more sustainable materials and chemistries in its products. Through the partnership, Nike's materials suppliers receive access to Bluesign's assessment tools and data.Source: Environmental Leader]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Sappi-Fine-Paper-Launches-Socially-Responsible-Design-Grant-Program/59181.htmlMon, 06 May 2013 20:26:07 GMTAntonio Pasolini Sappi Fine Paper North America has launched the 2013 edition of its grant program to give socially-inclined designers an opportunity to contribute to social good. Called Ideas That Matter, the grant was launched 14 years ago and is aimed at designers who use their skills to improve communications for various charitable activities.Since its inception in 1999, Sappi has funded over 500 nonprofit projects, contributing more than $12 million worldwide to causes that benefit people and the planet. Sa Read Full Article ]]> Sappi Fine Paper North America has launched the 2013 edition of its grant program to give socially-inclined designers an opportunity to contribute to social good. Called Ideas That Matter, the grant was launched 14 years ago and is aimed at designers who use their skills to improve communications for various charitable activities.Since its inception in 1999, Sappi has funded over 500 nonprofit projects, contributing more than $12 million worldwide to causes that benefit people and the planet. Sappi estimates that these projects have directly impacted people and communities across 24 states and 15 countries."Sappi understands that the lasting legacy of the Ideas that Matter program are the individual lives that are positively impacted and forever changed because of the grant-funded projects," said Jennifer Miller, Executive Vice President, Coated Business and Chief Sustainability Officer, Sappi Fine Paper North America."The projects are assessed on their creativity and practical outcomes. They are selected by an independent panel of judges comprised of leaders and influencers in the design industry. For the 2013 edition, Sappi has invited Bill Drenttel, President of Winterhouse Institute based in Connecticut; Erin Huizenga, Director of New Business Development at Remedy in Chicago; Jennifer Kinon, Founding Partner at Original Champions of Design/OCD based in New York City; Michael Lejeune, Creative Director at Metro in Los Angeles; Alissa Walker, freelance design writer in Los Angeles.Individual designers, design firms, agencies, in-house corporate design departments, design instructors, individual design students and design student groups can apply for an Ideas that Matter grant. The designer or the nonprofit must be based in North America. Grant awards range from $5,000 to $50,000 per project. At least a portion of the project must be printed, though additional elements may include a variety of communication mediums.The grant application process for Ideas that Matter is similar to submitting a client creative brief or strategic plan. Basic information is required including the mission statement of the benefiting nonprofit organization and a copy of its 501(c)(3) designation; a written description of the proposed project, including a list of elements to be part of the program; a brief description of the project's objectives; a visual presentation of the proposed idea; a project timeline and proposed budget; a summary of information about the applicant; the applicant's resume; and samples of the applicant's previous work.One novelty being introduced in 2013 is that proposals may include up to 10% of the total budget as an honorarium for the applying designer or design firm.To find out more and apply, follow the link or call 800-882-4332. Applications for proposals must be postmarked by July 19, 2013. The winners will be announced in September 2013.Image credit: Sappi Fine Paper]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Recycling-Council-of-Ontario-Re-Launches-Waste-Program/59130.htmlMon, 06 May 2013 12:31:46 GMTRobyn Hall "What gets measured matters" applies as much to solid waste diversion as to any other area of sustainability performance reporting. Aiming to elevate and standardize practice, Recycling Council of Ontario has just re-launched its voluntary diversion certification program for the Industrial, Commercial and Institutional sector (IC&I)called 3RCertified."For the majority of the IC&I sector, there is insufficient or inconsistent data to benchmark waste diversion performance across industry. There ar Read Full Article ]]> "What gets measured matters" applies as much to solid waste diversion as to any other area of sustainability performance reporting. Aiming to elevate and standardize practice, Recycling Council of Ontario has just re-launched its voluntary diversion certification program for the Industrial, Commercial and Institutional sector (IC&I)called 3RCertified."For the majority of the IC&I sector, there is insufficient or inconsistent data to benchmark waste diversion performance across industry. There are waste auditors and internal teams that do exceptional work. But, there is no industry benchmark by which companies and institutions can compare their performance," said Meirav Even-Har, Program Manager."While 3RCertified status is meant to recognize leadership in waste reduction and diversion, it was also introduced to the marketplace out of a real need for a standardized method and reporting of waste performance data," according to Even-Har.The first of its kind in Canada, 3RCertified is the only certification program in the country focused solely on solid waste.Rewarding Organizations for Reduction and Diversion3RCertified is a points-based waste reduction and diversion program for generators in the IC&I community. It is meant to reward organizations for their management and performance of solid waste in accordance with the 3Rs hierarchy. Organizations are recognized for diversion performance at the Bronze, Silver, Gold or Platinum level.While its offering is currently limited to office buildings, retail and manufacturing modules are expected to become available in summer and fall of 2013. The fee structure is meant to be accessible and includes three-year access to the online database, all on-site evaluations and other administrative processing costs.Any size of business that generates waste can apply to 3RCertified, if a specific survey module is available. Ontario office buildings are welcome to join the program now.To become 3RCertified, applicants have six months to fill out three surveys that inquire about a building's solid waste management programincluding key performance indicators of diversion, capture and per unit reduction rates. An on-site evaluation substantiates the online submission.Aside from recognition through certification, participants are able to contribute to the first externally verified database of by waste stream performance. A Portfolio Manager tool enables a company to track annual performance by waste stream, single or multiple buildings.Increasing Transparency through Externally Audited Data and a Focus on Material DestinationWhat is particularly interesting is the program's aim to address two very timely transparency issues affecting waste diversion management tracking: lack of transparency around destination of recyclables and lack of externally audited data.More and more companies are focused on where their recycled material ultimately lands. They are putting pressure on their waste haulers to provide this datato facilitate carbon footprint tracking and address public concerns. Images of, for example, e-waste dumps in China are entering public consciousness. Companies need to be able to show responsibility past the point when their recycled materials are hauled away. (Wire Burning Village photo, Guiyu China2013 Basel Action Network (BAN).)To facilitate this, the 3RCertified program rewards points for tracking each waste stream through the disposition chain. Organizations are asked to disclose service providers and the location where material is sentwith documentation and certificates.And 3RCertified also increases transparency by requiring an onsite evaluation to obtain certification. When it comes to waste auditing, practice in Ontario is a patchwork of haulers, independent auditors and others. The RCO is using 3RCertified, as well as its voluntary Waste Auditor Training Program, to offer a standardized approach.Going Beyond Compliance3RCertified dovetails with Ontario's provincial regulations and other certification schemes, while pushing organizations beyond compliance.With regulation, for example, ON Reg. 102/94 mandates that some organizations within the IC&I sector conduct an annual waste audit - such as office buildings 10,000 square meters or larger. The audit must address certain elements that have been included in RCO's Standard Waste Audit Methodology, a required component to be 3RCertified.3RCertified also aligns well with certification programs in that it addresses materials handling through a full lifecycle approach - from procurement decisions to management plans, to diversion rates. These issues are also addressed to some degree by whole building certification programs such as BOMA BESt and LEED EB (O&M).The ultimate goal is a shift in IC&I waste practice and culture. "3RCertified can be another big piece in a movement to shift our view of waste as "out of site out of mind" into resources that create new products out of old, reducing our need for raw materials while boosting the green economy," says Even-Har.]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Kaiser-Permanente-Earns-Green-Awards-for-Sustainability-Efforts/59085.htmlFri, 03 May 2013 13:43:29 GMTAntonio Pasolini The health care sector, due to the very nature of its operations, is a major user of energy and generator of waste. Many institutions in the sector are working to reduce their environmental impact by making their operations more energy-efficient, reducing waste and designing more efficient processes.Kaiser Permanente is one of them and the company is celebrating 29 environmental excellence awards it received this year from Practice Greenhealth, the national membership organization for hospitals Read Full Article ]]> The health care sector, due to the very nature of its operations, is a major user of energy and generator of waste. Many institutions in the sector are working to reduce their environmental impact by making their operations more energy-efficient, reducing waste and designing more efficient processes.Kaiser Permanente is one of them and the company is celebrating 29 environmental excellence awards it received this year from Practice Greenhealth, the national membership organization for hospitals and health systems committed to environmentally responsible operations and care.For the fourth time the organization has received the System for Change Award, which recognizes health systems that are working to gather data, set system goals, benchmark and share successes in environmental performance.Besides, its Roseville Medical Center in California has received the highest possible hospital award, becoming a member of Practice Greenhealth's Environmental Leadership Circle for setting an example in how to address its environmental impact and implementing long-term sustainability features into its facilities."Kaiser Permanente understands that the health of the environment is inextricably linked to human health and the overall health of communities," said Raymond J. Baxter, PhD, senior vice president for Community Benefit, Research and Health Policy. "This award recognizes the tremendous efforts by Kaiser Permanente employees and physicians who work tirelessly to assure that our medical facilities and services are delivering health care in a manner that benefits our members, our communities and the environment."Among the actions Kaiser Permanente takes to mitigate its environmental impact are setting ambitious targets for reducing greenhouse gas emissions through on-site renewable energy use and energy conservation measures, providing sustainable food for its patient meals, safe recycling of single-use medical devices to eliminate waste, and eliminating toxins such as DEHP and PVC from many of its medical supplies.Altogether, Kaiser Permanente has won 171 awards from Practice Greenhealth in the last 11 years.Image credit: Practice Greenhealth]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Canadians-Challenged-to-Save-Energy/59076.htmlThu, 02 May 2013 14:25:00 GMTAntonio Pasolini Developed, rich countries are quite efficient, in most economic activities, but one field where they fall short is energy. According to WWF, cheap and abundant fossil fuels have spawned bad habits that generate a great deal of waste. Besides, methods of producing, distributing and using energy are very inefficient.Canada is one of the most wasteful countries in the world when it comes to energy, behind the U.S. who started to lead the ranking in 2013. In order to tackle the problem, the Canadian Read Full Article ]]> Developed, rich countries are quite efficient, in most economic activities, but one field where they fall short is energy. According to WWF, cheap and abundant fossil fuels have spawned bad habits that generate a great deal of waste. Besides, methods of producing, distributing and using energy are very inefficient.Canada is one of the most wasteful countries in the world when it comes to energy, behind the U.S. who started to lead the ranking in 2013. In order to tackle the problem, the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance has launched the Eco-City Community Challenge, whose aim is to capture and reward the energy savings deeds that Canadian do in their homes, and encourage them to achieve more."We are excited about launching the Eco-City Community Challenge, and thrilled that Scotiabank EcoLiving has partnered with us to bring this initiative to Canadians," said Elizabeth McDonald, President and CEO of the Canadian Energy Efficiency Alliance. "Our recent survey of Canadians conducted by The Gandalf Group indicated that over 60% of Canadians want to do more in terms of energy efficiency."To enter the contest, eligible participants have to fill out a form that can be found here. One grand-prize winner will take home a package of five energy-efficient Whirlpool appliances from The Home Depot Canada. In total their retail value adds up to more $8,000. They include the Whirlpool Duet Front Load Washer, Whirlpool Duet Dryer, Whirlpool 36-inch French Door Bottom Mount Refrigerator, Whirlpool Dishwasher with Stainless Steel Interior and PowerScourTM Option, and a Whirlpool Electric Range. The winner will be selected in a draw conducted from all eligible electronic entries received during the contest period (already open) and will be chosen at random by the program manager, Green Living Enterprises, no later than December 1, 2013.Not only individuals will have their energy-saving efforts recognized. The Pembina Institute will use data generated from the Eco-City Community Challenge website to make calculations to find the biggest energy saver in one city or town per province or territory. Image credit: Eco-City Community Challenge]]>http://www.justmeans.com/New-App-Promotes-Sustainability-Through-Carpooling/59065.htmlWed, 01 May 2013 19:02:34 GMTAntonio Pasolini SAP has launched a new software product to help its employees save emissions during commuting. Called TwoGo, the app allows the company's employees to engage in ride-sharing to work, besides reducing costs for corporate fleets, parking infrastructure and travel expenses. TwoGo has been deployed internally at SAP since July 2011, and the company estimates it has generated more than $5 million invalue.Cloud-based TwoGo can be used by any organization who would like to give their employees an oppor Read Full Article ]]> SAP has launched a new software product to help its employees save emissions during commuting. Called TwoGo, the app allows the company's employees to engage in ride-sharing to work, besides reducing costs for corporate fleets, parking infrastructure and travel expenses. TwoGo has been deployed internally at SAP since July 2011, and the company estimates it has generated more than $5 million invalue.Cloud-based TwoGo can be used by any organization who would like to give their employees an opportunity to be matched into carpools automatically and according to their individual preferences. Moreover, TwoGo features unique capabilities to help drive employee participation in a company's ride-sharing program."TwoGo by SAP is another great example of how our innovations help the world run better. We've combined our mobile and cloud technologies into a carpooling solution to help provide immediate economic, environmental and social benefits to companies and their employees," said Peter Graf, chief sustainability officer, SAP.Companies with corporate fleets can benefit from the solution by minimizing maintenance costs and preserving vehicle resale value. It also supports companies looking for a way to make vanpooling more affordable and effective by seeking riders to find and regularly fill the van. Finally, TwoGo helps organizations demonstrate their commitment to sustainability by reducing carbon emissions and engaging employees in that mission.For individuals, there are also significant ecological and economic benefits. In very large U.S. urban areas, the average commuter spends $16 and 52 minutes going 32 miles round trip to work each day. TwoGocan help people save money and time. By carpooling, employees may recoup some of this lost productivity by encouraging networking and brainstorming on the road. In addition, TwoGo may create a morenetworked culture, helping employees to feel better informed and involved with their peers.To encourage employee adoption, TwoGo can be used on various mobile devices, the Web as well as calendar applications. Once a company licenses the solution, employees can sign up online and enter ride-sharing preferences such as proximity, timing to and from work and willingness to leave the highway to pick up passengers.Unlike some other solutions, where would-be carpoolers must go through lists to find the right partner, withTwoGo, once preferences are entered, rides are instantly matched and communication is handledautomatically via email or SMS. Moreover, TwoGo employs sophisticated algorithms designed to ensure that employees do not get stranded at work. To help locate desirable matches in an easy and clear way, TwoGois powered by HERE, Nokia's location cloud, which delivers one of the leading map and location experiences across multiple screens and operating systems.Thomas Cook is one example of a company using TwoGo with great results. "TwoGo by SAP encourages employees to participate in reaching our goal to create a more sustainable future. As a member of the beta program and long-time SAP customer, we are happy to work with SAP to develop an application that helps us meet our sustainability targets, reduce costs for our company and employees and build a more social, connected company," said Dr. Julian Clemenz, head of sustainability management, Thomas Cook Central Europe."We are excited to partner with SAP on this new venture that we anticipate will bring accurate and comprehensive global maps, traffic information and routing capabilities to enterprise customers," said Christof Hellmis, vice president of Nokia's Map Platform.Companies of all sizes can benefit from TwoGo, including allowing employees to carpool with people working at neighboring companies that use TwoGo. It works with any iCal-compatible corporate calendarapplication, such as Microsoft Outlook, Lotus Notes or Google. This enables users to create and change rides within the context of their daily work schedule.It's available in several languages (English, German, Spanish or French) and accommodates international time zones, maps and measurement units. The mobile app can also provide administrators with reports on employees' commuting habits and usage trends.Image credit: SAP]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Ecolab-Aims-at-New-Sustainability-Targets/59062.htmlMon, 29 Apr 2013 09:31:08 GMTAntonio Pasolini Ecolab, a global leader in water, hygiene and energy technologies, has announced a new five-year plan make its operations more sustainable. Based on the company's 2012 metrics Ecolab will work to achieve a five percent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, a 10 percent reduction in water use and wastewater discharge, and a 10 percent reduction in solid waste. These targets are per million dollars in sales.Since Ecolab merged with Nalco Company 2011, the combined company has strengthened i Read Full Article ]]> Ecolab, a global leader in water, hygiene and energy technologies, has announced a new five-year plan make its operations more sustainable. Based on the company's 2012 metrics Ecolab will work to achieve a five percent reduction in greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, a 10 percent reduction in water use and wastewater discharge, and a 10 percent reduction in solid waste. These targets are per million dollars in sales.Since Ecolab merged with Nalco Company 2011, the combined company has strengthened its ecological footprint by combining their respective expertise and reach. Ecolab achieved a 19 percent reduction in U.S. GHG emissions from the 2006 baseline, attaining 95 percent of its stated goal within 83 percent of the time frame. The company also reduced waste by 20 percent between 2009 and 2012, against a target of 18 percent. In 2007, Nalco set a target of reducing its total energy use 10 percent globally by the end of 2012, and achieved 84 percent of its goal within 80 percent of the planned time frame."Sustainability is core to our purpose of making the world cleaner, safer and healthier," said Douglas M. Baker, Jr., Ecolab chairman and chief executive officer. "Through our total impact approach, we consider the economic, social and environmental impacts of our products and services to deliver sustainable results for our customers and improve our own operations."All those sustainability efforts have resulted in recognition for Ecolab. In 2012, the company was named to the Dow Jones Sustainability World Index, the FTSE4Good Index, the Carbon Disclosure Project's Carbon Disclosure Leadership Index for the third consecutive year and to the Maplecroft Climate Innovation Index for the third consecutive year.It also received the American Chemistry Council Responsible Care Energy Efficiency Award, the NAFA Fleet Management Association Sustainable Fleet Award and was named to Ethisphere Institute's list of the world's most ethical companies for the seventh consecutive year.Image credit: Ecolab]]>http://www.justmeans.com/Despite-Troubled-Markets--Just-Green-Expands-its-Portfolio-of-Carbon-Offsetting-Services/59039.htmlFri, 26 Apr 2013 15:50:46 GMTAntonio Pasolini Recent news headlines are proclaiming trouble in carbon markets. Questions are being raised about the world's global system of carbon trading, the United Nations' backed Clean Development Mechanism, due to the lack of firm guarantees by governments to support the system beyond this year. And the EU's Emissions Trading Scheme, the oldest and largest carbon market in the world, has been roiled by drastically falling prices. Despite these difficulties, some companies are growing their successful st Read Full Article ]]> Recent news headlines are proclaiming trouble in carbon markets. Questions are being raised about the world's global system of carbon trading, the United Nations' backed Clean Development Mechanism, due to the lack of firm guarantees by governments to support the system beyond this year. And the EU's Emissions Trading Scheme, the oldest and largest carbon market in the world, has been roiled by drastically falling prices. Despite these difficulties, some companies are growing their successful strategies to reduce greenhouse gas emissions.Just Green Community, Just Energy Group's green energy initiative, hasadded a new service to its portfolio. Called JustGreen BusinessAdvantage, it is a new green energy initiative designed to help businessesneutralize their carbon output and do their share to slow globalwarming and climate change. The service allows customers to pursuerenewable and sustainable energy solutions that support green energyprojects across North America.The program offers three participation levels: Select, Plus and Elite.Each one of them comprises a monthly membership plan designed toassist companies of all sizes reduce their carbon footprint throughinvestment in carbon offsets. Members will benefit from a host ofmarketing assets designed to help them promote to employees andcustomers their commitment to environmental sustainability."We are excited to offer JustGreen Business Advantage as a carbonoffset product for businesses large and small who desire a simple andeffective solution to reduce and neutralize their carbon emissions inthe battle against global warming", says GP Manalac, JustGreenExecutive VP. "More and more, companies are noting the competitiveadvantage to be gained by environmental stewardship through enhancedcorporate reputation among a growing number of environmentallyconscious consumers."Participants also have the option to allocate the carbon offsets to agreen energy project that is meaningful to them. This way they cansupport local communities and economies through job creation andreduced greenhouse gas emissions. Green projects include solar, hydro,wind power, and methane capture facilities. Third party verified, thecarbon offset products meet the highest industry standards available.On behalf of its customers, the company has invested over $70 millionon green energy projects to date. This investment has enabled clients to offset over 1.23 million metric tons of carbon emissions, the equivalent to taking 240,000 cars off the road for an entire year. It has also generated 4 million MWh of renewable energy, which is enough to power over 380,000 homes for an entire year.Image credit: Just Green Business Advantage]]>