Month: August 2020

circular economy, Climate Action, Environment, sustainability, Wildlife August 27, 2020August 27, 2020

US Vegan Climate Index Isn’t “Shackled to The Past”

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 27, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

European investing platform Beyond Investing– no relation to Beyond Meat– celebrated the second ‘birthday’ of its US Vegan Climate Index this summer. As the world’s first exchange-traded fund (ETF) focused on veganism and environmentalism, the US Climate Index (VEGAN) should be a ticker on your investor watchlist.

Twitter- @BeyondInvest

The US Climate Index avoids companies and business models that pose a threat to the environment. This means that they do not support animal exploitation or unethical business. In a press release published on June 16, 2020, Beyond Investing reported, “over its two-year live history, VEGAN has outperformed the S&P 500 Index…on a price return basis of 5.93%.” VEGAN outperforming the S&P 500 means big things for Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) funds.

When questioned about the future of ESG investing, Claire Smith, Beyond Investing CEO, shared some poignant thoughts with The Hill Report. “ESG investing will become the primary driver for investment. Investors are holding companies to higher standards and questioning the viability of unethical and polluting business models. It represents the opportunity to invest for the future that you want to see, as opposed to keeping your money shackled to the past.”

Instagram- @beyond_animal

With a boom of awareness of veganism and sustainability in the US, and the success of companies like Beyond Meat and Tesla, new Initial Public Offerings (IPOs) are sure to be popping up. Investors in the US Climate Index can rest assured that each new IPO will be properly screened and vetted before being added to the fund. Smith said that she anticipates “more IPOs of ethical plant-based and cruelty-free food and lifestyle product companies.” She looks forward “to including them in our US Vegan Climate Index as replacements for those damaging companies that fail our screens.” As the demand for ethical investing soars higher, people looking to the stock market should consider the US Vegan Climate Index.

Tl;dr

European investing platform Beyond Investing celebrates two years of the US Vegan Climate Index
As the world’s first exchange-traded fund (ETF), US Climate Index (VEGAN) is a ticker to watch
VEGAN has outperformed the S&P 500
CEO, Claire Smith predicts that more IPOs of ethical plant-based and cruelty-free food and lifestyle product companies are on the rise
US Climate Index screens companies to ensure that only ethical businesses are added to the fund

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Climate Action, Climate Change, sustainability August 26, 2020August 26, 2020

Top 3 Elite Standouts in EVs

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 26, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

Vegan and sustainable are the new ‘it words’ in luxury right now. Fashion brands are phasing out fur and animal leather left and right, and high profile celebrities like Leonardo DiCaprio and Gisele Bundchen are calling for climate change action every day. Brands are listening and developing product lines that meet the demands of the growing population of socially conscious consumers. The automotive industry is no different.

Twitter- @AmberWCC

Luxury car companies are trying to top one another in EV development and the inclusion of other sustainable features in their latest models. Here are the top three luxury automakers and vehicles that are standouts in vegan and sustainable EVs.

2020 Tesla Model 3- Over the last decade, Elon Musk has worked every angle to get his fully electric brand on the road. In 2020, when people think of EVs and luxury, they undoubtedly think of Tesla. This sexy 5-seater has 322 miles of range and can go from 0-60 mph in 3.2 seconds. Boasting a 15 inch touch screen display with features like in-car video games, this electric vehicle will never fail to impress.

2021 Lexus UX300e- Lexus delivers a classic and contemporary crossover in the development of the UX300e. The crossover uses a 54.3-kWh lithium-ion battery, and has a driving range of 248 miles. Lexus offers a vegan leather interior and the ability to control smart features through an app on your phone. The UX300e is currently available in Europe and Asia only, providing an added layer of exclusivity and allure.

2021 BMW iNext- Said to be available in 2021, this is an elite concept vehicle unlike any you have ever seen. The modern interior styling– inspired by the theme “boutique hotel”– is unmatched. With responsive tech woven into the fabric of the seats-that allows users to change the music or by interacting with textile surfaces in the car- stepping inside of one will feel like being transported to the future! BMW’s sleek Shy Technology is an element like no other— it is a must-see. The iNext is said to have 360 miles of range on a single charge. Making this an unmatchable elite driving experience.

Twitter- @LelaHo6

If you are looking to the world of luxury to rev up your sustainable lifestyle, look to Tesla, Lexus, and BMW. Their newest EVs and breakthroughs in technology are the wave of the future!

Climate Action, Climate Change, sustainability August 25, 2020

How to Use Your ‘Mom Status’ to Help Mother Nature

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 25, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

Think back to your childhood. If you ever had a problem that you couldn’t resolve yourself, who did you ask for help? Chances are, the answer is your mom. Had a pull in your ballet tights five minutes before your recital started? She had you covered with a spritz of hairspray. Couldn’t find your soccer cleats? Hall closet on the left next to the blue duffel bag— no hesitation. Tiffany Saunders told everyone that you stuffed your bra in the seventh grade? She called her mom, and the rumor mill ended. Done.

It’s ingrained in us from a young age— if you have a problem and need something done about it fast, ask a Mom. That’s why it is no surprise that ‘Mom’s in Movements’ make major headway. Whether it’s the hundreds of thousands of nutritious meals provided by Moms Against Poverty, the blockage of 3 million illegal gun sales due in part to Moms Demand Action, or the human shield provided to Black Lives Matter protesters in Oregon by the Wall of Moms— passionate mothers make a difference.

Twitter- @QCDCNY

These three celebrity moms are making big waves in sustainability and preserving the environment. Hear what they have been saying about protecting mother nature and preparing the planet for the next generation. You will definitely feel inspired!

Anne Hathaway– The Les Misérables actress is more than just a Hollywood star. She is an activist, NYU graduate, and a Goodwill Ambassador of the United Nations. In an interview with InStyle, Hathaway explained how she is raising a ‘Zero Waste’ family. Anne said of the eco-friendly switch, “While working on The Hustle, I noticed disposable coffee cups, plastic water bottles, idling trucks, and food waste. When I finished the film, my family and I went zero waste.”

Hilary Duff– Mother of two little ones, this Lizzy McGuire actress was on the cover of the “Mother Earth” issue published by Parents magazine. She regularly uses social media to share tips that any family can use to help combat the climate crisis. Of these seemingly small steps, she said, “at first, saving the environment sounds scary and overwhelming, but as we implement new rules, it becomes easier and easier.”

Instagram- @hilaryduff

Alicia Silverstone– Author of The Kind Diet, this star is far from Clueless. Long-time plant-based mamma and activist, Silverstone makes her opinions known about climate action. In an interview with VegNews she stated, “our rapidly growing dependence on animals as a food source is one of the greatest threats to the climate.” She too regularly takes to social media to share eco-friendly recipes and tips.

If you are feeling empowered to use your ‘mom status’ to make positive changes, follow these stars on Instagram, or get involved in the movement by visiting Mothers Out Front. Mothers Out Front is dedicated to impacting the way the world responds to climate change. They provide resources for families and lobby for green initiatives. Right now, they are fighting for electric school buses for children. Who knows what they could accomplish with your help!

Climate Action, Climate Change August 21, 2020August 21, 2020

Why You Should Pay Attention to Beyond Meat

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 21, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

Beyond Meat is a US-based vegan alternative meat company that focuses on sustainability and animal welfare. They are the makers of the beet juice burger that “bleeds” like beef. With 20 grams of protein per serving, this new backyard barbecue staple does more than just drip red juices on the grill.

In May of 2019, when Beyond Meat first became publicly traded, the market exploded with excitement. According to Forbes, the stock closed that day at a 43% increase. People around the country finally saw what CEO Ethan Brown knew all along— alternative meat is an industry that will change the world.

Instagram – @beyondmeat

Despite the plummet that most traded companies felt during the months of quarantine, in May of 2020, Beyond’s share values reportedly grew 82%. And the company continued to grow and forge deals to further their infiltration into the lives of average people.

On August 4th, Beyond reported a net loss of a whopping $10.2 million— but don’t let the word ‘loss’ fool you. Brown has made it clear that Beyond will continue to push through these unprecedented times and provide an affordable, more sustainable, and healthier plant-based alternative to beef. During the second quarter, Beyond partnered with megastores Target and Walmart, making this vegan burger more accessible than ever. The partnership helped the company reach $113.3 million in net sales.

Beyond Meat is already at T.G.I.Friday’s, Dunkin’, and Carl’s Junior, and each partnership helped launch the company’s success further. On August 12th, Aramark announced that they, too, will be partnering with Beyond. As one of the largest food providers in the US, this is a big deal that will positively impact Beyond’s stock in the future. When America ‘reopens’, and people return to schools, college campuses’, and stadiums Beyond will be there— and you can count on stock values to reflect that.

Twitter – @Ceo_topcvstudio

Tl;dr

Beyond Meat is an alternative meat company that focuses on sustainability and animal welfare
Beyond stock closed at a 43% increase on its first day on the market
May of 2020, Beyond’s share values reportedly grew 82%
Despite a reported a net loss of $10.2 million, Beyond made relationships with Target & Walmart during quarantine
The company reach $113.3 million in net sales in Q2
On August 12th, Aramark announced a partnership with Beyond
Expect to see Beyond Meat in schools, college campuses’, & stadiums
When America ‘reopens’, the stock value will increase

Climate Action, Climate Change, sustainability August 17, 2020August 18, 2020

What You Need to Know to Go Solar During Pandemic

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 18, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

While solar power has previously been thought to be a beacon of hope for the environment and the economy, the industry is currently in crisis. Amid COVID 19, the Solar Energy Industries Association (SEIA) published a press release availing quarter two outcomes.

Prior to the pandemic, it was projected that solar energy projects would offer 302,000 Americans jobs by June of 2020. Instead, the industry saw a job loss of 114,000 workers. SEIA states, “The Q2 solar deployment losses are equivalent to powering 288,000 homes and $3.2 billion in economic investment.” This type of down-turn sets the solar workforce back to levels seen in 2014.

In the same press release, SEIA blames a lack of “strategic government action” for this setback. However, they also state, “with the right policies in place, the solar industry is poised to lead the U.S. out of this economic recession and create jobs for thousands of Americans.”

Just recently, the association published a COVID 19 resource guide for the solar industry. Alongside this guide, they have launched a social media campaign, #RebuildBetter, to build awareness and advocate for the necessary policies to support solar energy.

Now is the perfect time to jump in and switch to renewable energy for your household. It’s super simple to get started. Just click on EnergySage.com to get a free quote and learn about the incentives and rebates in your area. EnergySage will calculate the costs and benefits. Check it out today. It can’t hurt to find out more information about this critical technology. To take advantage of rare incentives, get a free quote today.

There are five main things you can do to support the solar industry in this time of need.

Submit a Solar Power Testimonial to the SEIA
Make a personal or company-related donation to support solar-related COVID 19 relief efforts
Submit company project-level data to EIA
Support the campaign #RebuildBetter
Go to EnergySage.com for information and a free quote for installing solar panels to your house.

Climate Action, Climate Change, sustainability August 14, 2020August 14, 2020

Eco-Friendly Fashion & Green Brooklyn Brand

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 14, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

America has a skeleton lurking in her closet— or rather, a skeleton leaving the closet. It is estimated that each person in the US throws away an average of 70 lbs of unwanted clothing annually. Keeping in mind that a shirt or a pair of jeans is worn only seven times before ending up in a landfill, this is a problematic amount of unnecessary consumer waste. The solution: more thoughtful consumerism, upcycling, and recycling old clothes. Yes, you can recycle clothes. According to the Secondary Materials and Recycled Textiles Association, SMART, up to 95% of all used clothing is recyclable.

Keep your eyes open for brands using ethically sourced and recycled fabrics!

Twitter- @GreenBrooklynbd

The Green Brooklyn Brand, owned by New York Native Antoine Jackson, is definitely a brand to follow. They focus heavily on bringing environmentalism and sustainability to the streetwear conversation. In an exclusive interview, Jackson told the Hill Report that the brand plans on “revolutionizing the way we see fashion…[with] simple techniques that will help to heal the world.” All of Green Brooklyn Brand’s clothes are made with eco-friendly fabrics like hemp, Eco-Triblend, and RPET. RPET stands for Recycled Polyethylene Terephthalate— simply put, this is a fabric that is composed of recycled polyesters and plastics.

The clothing line is designed to be comfortable, recyclable, and reusable. The durability and ingenuity of the brand speaks directly to its consumers, and changes the way the world looks at streetwear. Jackson stated, “Green Brooklyn Brand garments are meant to be strong, just like the common Brooklynite.”

Instagram-@greenbrooklynbrand

Even more exciting, Jackson hinted at an upcoming fusion of technology and fashion for the brand. Without giving too much away, he said, “I believe we are on to something very chic and revolutionary in the world of wearable tech.” While we are not sure exactly what is coming down the pike, we can imagine that this will be big in the world of eco-friendly fashion.

If you want bold fashion that takes a strong position on sustainability, wear Green Brooklyn Brand, and post your eco-friendly fashion on social media with #greenbrooklynbrand or #gbb!

Tl:dr

Each person in the US throws away an average of 70 lbs of unwanted clothing each year
95% of all used clothing is recyclable
The Green Brooklyn Brand brings environmentalism and sustainability to streetwear
Green Brooklyn Brand’s clothes are made with eco-friendly fabrics like Hemp, Eco-Triblend, and RPET. RPET
Owner, Antoine Jackson hinted at an upcoming fusion of technology and fashion for the brand

Climate Action, Climate Change, sustainability August 12, 2020August 14, 2020

How Kia Aims to Get Consumers Excited About & Driving EVs

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 12, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

Kia is kicking electric and ‘alternative fuel’ up a notch. Their “line of the future” boasts over 6 cars that are either hybrid, hybrid plug-in, or fully electric. The end-game for Kia seems to be to increase accessibility and desire for electric cars.

Kia reminds those trying to decide whether or not an electric car is within reach that they may be eligible for up to 10k in federal rebates. The hybrid and hybrid plug-in models cut down on gas usage, and widen the EV audience. Kia calls these models the “most accessible entry point into Alternative Fuel Vehicles.” Speaking of broadening accessibility, Kia has even partnered with Amazon, to make buying and installing at home charging kits easier than ever.

Twitter- @getElectricVeh

The fully electric Soul, and Niro crossover, are pretty impressive vehicles. The Niro EV starts at $39,090 and Niro EV offers an EPA-estimated 239-mile range and 201 Electric Drive Motor Horsepower. With Rapid 100kW charging, the Niro has up to an 80% charge in as little as 30 minutes! SImilar to Tesla, the crossover sports vegan leather seats, and is full of impressive technology. Items like Apple Carplay and Wireless Charging are fun and convenient. While features like Forward Collision Avoidance Assist (FCA), Blind Spot Collision Warning (BCW), and Lane Following Assist (LFA) are potentially lifesaving.

The Kia Soul is known to be a spunky, spacious and stylish car. Winner of the 2020 World Car Awards- World Urban Car, the upcoming 2021 Soul EV is a highly anticipated electronic option. According to Car and Driver, the 64.0-k battery of this model will outshine the 2019 model. This 5 passenger hatchback offers an impressive 243 miles of driving range. With standard DC fast-charging capability, and smartphone charging pad, getting going is made fast and convenient.

Twitter- @LawtonKia

With a myriad of fun and innovative options, it is clear that Kia is hoping people will ditch gas and become fully electric!

Come back next Wednesday for more EV news!

Tl;dr

Kia has 6 electric, hybrid, or hybrid plugin models for consumers to choose from
Kia is increasing accessibility and desire for electric cars
Kia has partnered with Amazon to make buying and installing at home charging kits easy
Niro EV starts at $39,090 and Niro EV offers an EPA-estimated 239-mile range
The Niro EC has 100kW charging,, and gets an 80% charge in 30 minutes
The upcoming 2021 Kia Soul EV will have a 64.0-k battery and 243 miles of driving range

Climate Action, Climate Change, sustainability August 11, 2020August 14, 2020

How to Talk with Your Kids About Climate Crisis

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 11, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

It is undeniable, climate change is here, and it poses very serious challenges for the world’s population. There are weather changes, health implications, and economic impacts of this complex crisis. If you’re a pro-planet parent, you may be struggling with how to talk to your children about these issues. After all, this topic can be overwhelming and even depressing for adults. It is hard to know what is too little and what is too much in regards to engaging your children on this subject.

Twitter- @MPRnews

First, you must remember that this isn’t your childhood. Information isn’t only delineated from your parents, your teacher, and a neighborhood no it all. Kids have access to information- whether accurate or not- at the touch of their fingertips. Chances are, your child has already done some research on this topic using their tablet or smartphone. This is why your first step in broaching this topic should be to find out what your child already knows– or what they think they know– about climate change. Be sure to talk to them about vetting resources and how to fact check, so that they won’t be misled. Explain why the Environmental Defence Fund, EDF, or the Environmental Protection Agency, the EPA are reliable resources, while Facebook or Instagram may not be.

If your kids are too young to navigate the EDF or EPA, maybe let them know that you can be their resource for information until they are a bit older.

After finding out what your child already knows, and empowering them with the ability to find reliable information, gauge their feelings. This can be a scary subject, and your child may have some really tough emotions to work through. Let them know that you are here for them and that they are not alone. Tell them that there are agencies all over the planet working tirelessly to solve this problem.

Twitter- @myonlinesch

Remind them that the climate crisis is a man-made problem, and there will eventually be a man-made solution. Explain that every choice they make can be a choice to help save Mother Nature. Encourage your child to conserve energy, consume less, and re-use or re-purpose items whenever possible. Every time you or your child turns off a light when they leave a room, or drops a can into the recycling bin, congratulate them! Make them a part of your eco-friendly routines, and most importantly, ask them how they would like to help.

By merely speaking to your children about the climate crisis, you are preparing the next generation for what’s to come. Who knows, you may be raising the next Greta Thunburg or Jane Goodall.

Come back every Tuesday for more Eco-Friendly Parenting tips!

Tl;dr

There are weather changes, health implications, and economic impacts of this complex crisis
Talking to your children about these issues can be tough
Chances are, your child has already done some research on this topic using their tablet or smartphone
Find out what your child already knows– or what they think they know– about climate change
Talk to them about vetting resources and how to fact check
The Environmental Defence Fund, EDF, and the Environmental Protection Agency, the EPA are reliable resources
Gauge their feelings
Remind them that they are not alone: there are agencies all over the planet working tirelessly to solve this problem
Encourage your child to conserve energy, consume less, and re-use or re-purpose items whenever possible
Make them a part of your eco-friendly routines, and most importantly, ask them how they would like to help

Climate Action, Climate Change, Environment, sustainability August 6, 2020August 14, 2020

Why You Need to Know About the Launch of The Wonderful Wine Co.

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 6, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

This time last summer, your evening plans may have included slipping on stilettos to meet up with a few friends at a new roof-top bar or rocking your favorite fedora at a neighborhood block party. As Friday quickly approaches, we know swanky bars and big parties are out of the question, but that doesn’t mean you have to let your summer slip away. You can uncork a bottle of wine on your back porch with your neighbor– six feet away, of course– and toast to Mother Nature!

Yes, that’s right; there is a wine that is actually doing something for the environment. In June of 2020, Winc launched a totally vegan and oh so sustainable line of wine. It’s called The Wonderful Wine Co., and people are loving it!

Twitter – @helloboxes

The Wonderful Wine Co. is dedicated to the wellness of the planet and the wellness of its customers. All of the grapes are derived from organic vineyards, and no added chemicals or added sugars are used in the process. Unlike most wine available, The Wonderful Wine Co. is all vegan. This means that the ground-up bone, casein, milk, and fish bladders that sneak their way into your typical Rosé, won’t be found here.

More than simply better for you, this wine is better for the planet. The ingredients, the packaging, how it is shipped, and even the bottle itself are meticulously designed with Mother Nature in mind. Wonderful Wine uses a special lightweight glass bottle that requires 20% less energy and 12% less water in production, which reduces carbon emissions by 27%. They also have reduced landfill contributions and deforestation by eliminating the trash producing polylaminate capsule altogether and using an all-natural biodegradable cork. Additionally, the box the wine is housed in is 100% recyclable and 95% compostable.

With four delicious selections coming from non-GMO vineyards in Argentina, France, and California, there is a delicious and sophisticated option for any occasion. For a sustainable sip of summer, pour yourself a glass of The Limited Edition Orange wine. With notes of citrus and white peach and a touch of honeysuckle, you will know why they call it Wonderful Wine.

Instagram – @blevineproductions

Come back every Thursday to learn more about the role veganism plays in combating climate change!

Tl;dr

Winc launched The Wonderful Wine Co., a vegan and sustainable line of wine
The grapes are derived from organic vineyards
No added chemicals or added sugars are used in the process
Most other wine includes ground-up bone, casein, milk, and fish bladders
Wonderful Wine uses a special lightweight glass bottle that reduces carbon emissions by 27%
They reduced landfill contributions and deforestation by eliminating the polylaminate capsule and using an all-natural biodegradable cork
The box is 100% recyclable and 95% compostable

Climate Action, Climate Change, Environment, sustainability August 5, 2020August 14, 2020

What People Are Saying About Mini Cooper Going Electric— Again

Washington (GGM) Analysis | August 5, 2020 by Sarah J. Kings

With all of the Nissan Leafs and Chevy Bolts on the road today, it may seem hard to remember when electric vehicles, EVs, were uncommon. However, only ten years ago, EVs were virtually unattainable to the average person. It was only in 2009 that the first major car manufacturer released over 500 EVs for private use— and no, it was not Tesla. It was BMW’s Mini Cooper!

Though nearly ten thousand people signed up to lease Mini’s original EV– the Mini E– the vehicle was never intended for mass production. In March of 2020, Mini Cooper put more than just their toes in the water, with the release of their first real line of EVs: the Mini Cooper Hardtop SE. Starting at $29,900, this stylish and spunky roadster is one of the most affordable electric cars around.

Instagram – @pepperandgold

According to Car and Driver, the car “has a 32.6-kWh battery pack and a single electric motor that produces 181 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque.” It has agile handling, a high-tech interior, and of course, the distinctive Mini aesthetic. Additionally, the SE sports an adjustable regenerative braking system, as well as a state of the art heat-pump that is 75% more efficient than traditional electric designs.

The only real flaw in this adorable Mini is the range. The Mini Cooper SE has 110 miles of electric range, while competitors, like Hyundai or Kia have over 200 miles of range. On a positive note, the SE comes with a 3-prong charging cord that will fit into any standard outlet. In combination with the available at-home wallbox chargers and the increasing availability of public charging stations, this makes range less of an issue. Plus, when using Fast DC Charging Stations, average users get an 80% charge in about 35 minutes.

Twitter – @MyUrbanCar

All in all, people are excited about the style, handling, and affordability of this Zero-Emission car. Pulling up in the Mini Cooper’s newly released SE will not disappoint!

Come back next Wednesday for more EV news!

Tl;dr

In 2009 Mini Cooper released 500 EVs for private use— the Mini E
The Mini E was never intended for mass production
In March of 2020, Mini Cooper released of their first real line of EVs: the Mini Cooper Hardtop SE
The base model starts at $29,900
The SE produces 181 horsepower and 199 lb-ft of torque
The SE has a state of the art heat-pump that is 75% more efficient than traditional electric designs
At home charging and the increase in public charging stations makes the 110 miles of electric range less of an issue