For further information
Web resources
Information, news, and commentary
AIGA Center for Sustainable Design
Provides graphic designers with case studies, interviews, resources, and discourse on sustainable business practice.
sustainability.aiga.org
Carbon Neutral Digest
Provides an up-to-date rating of U.S.-based organizations that offer solutions to help reduce or offset carbon footprints, and descriptions of their practices.
carbonneutraldigest.com
Circle of Blue Waternews
Daily go-to source for global water news and data.
www.circleofblue.org/waternews/waterviews
Clean Edge
A resource for companies, investors, governments, and nonprofits in the clean-technology sector. Market research reports, stock indexes benchmarking, cleantech events, free cleantech newsletter, and connecting cleantech job seekers, employers, and recruiters.
www.cleanedge.com
Climate Change
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency resource site with comprehensive and accessible information on climate change.
www.epa.gov/climatechange
Earthtweet
Social networking site. When twitter users put “#earthtweet” before a tweet, their environmentally related post is automatically posted to this site.
earthtweet.com
Eco Voice
Australia’s environmental news website.
www.ecovoice.com.au
Ecolect
Tools and resources on sustainable materials.
ecolect.net
EcoWorld
Comprehensive information source on wide range of environmental information and opinion covering topics from animals and wildlife, to businesses and services, to water, oceans and ice. Latest headlines and photos.
www.ecoworld.com
ENDS Europe
Europe’s environmental news and information source.
www.endseurope.com
Environment for Europeans
A European Commission sponsored website featuring environmental news, reports, and events.
ec.europa.eu/environment/news/efe/index_en.htm
Environmental Leader
News for environmental and sustainability executives.
www.environmentalleader.com
Global Oneness Project
Web-based film project that documents “our growing understanding of what it means to be part of one interconnected, interdependent world.” Short films and interviews featuring people around the world working in sustainability, conflict resolution, spirituality, art, agriculture, economics, indigenous culture, social justice, and politics can be viewed and downloaded for free and used as an educational resource in schools and communities.
www.globalonenessproject.org
Green Energy TV
Online channel featuring videos on alternative/renewable/clean energy.
greenenergytv.com
Green Maven
Search engine and directory just for green and sustainability sites.
www.greenmaven.com
GreenBiz
Environmental information, tools and data for the mainstream business community. Includes Greenbuzz, a free weekly update, and the State of Green Business annual report.
www.greenbiz.com
The Greenwashing Index
A website produced by EnviroMedia Social Marketing and the University of Oregon, helps consumers evaluate environmental claims and rate ads.
www.greenwashingindex.com
The Green Power Network
News and information on green power markets operated and maintained by the National Renewable Energy Laboratory of the U.S. Department of Energy.
apps3.eere.energy.gov/greenpower
Grist
Environmental news and green living tips from an esteemed and wry voice in environmental journalism.
www.grist.org
Information/Inspiration
Eco-design resource created to support the design of environmentally and socially responsible products.
www.informationinspiration.org.uk
Institute for Sustainable Communication
Non profit organization dedicated to greening marketing communications. Addresses issues of digital and print media supply chains.
www.sustainablecommunication.org
Justmeans
Social media site for socially responsible businesses.
www.justmeans.com
LCA Information Hub
Information source maintained by the European Commission on life-cycle-related databases, tools, services, developers, and providers.
lca.jrc.ec.europa.eu/lcainfohub/index.vm
LCAccess
Resource site developed and maintained by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency to educate people about life-cycle assessment (LCA) while “serving as a focal point for LCA practitioners and decision-makers to stay current with the field of LCA.”
www.epa.gov/nrmrl/lcaccess
Learning About Renewable Energy
Run by the National Renewable Energy Lab, provides information and educational resources on energy efficiency and various applications of renewable energy.
www.nrel.gov/learning
LOHAS Online
Provides information and resources for businesses looking to appeal to LOHAS consumers.
www.lohas.com
Planetsave
One of many blogs produced by Green Options Media, encourages people to take environmental action and provides a place for visitors to share commentary, ideas, and solutions related to environmental challenges.
planetsave.com
Raymond Communications
Subscription, news, and reference information on recycling and environmental legislation in the United States and around the world.
www.raymond.com
RealClimate
Commentary by working climate scientists writing in their spare time for the interested public and journalists. Restricted to scientific topics, not involved in political or economic implications of the science.
www.realclimate.org
Sierra Club Compass
One of many blogs written by the Sierra Club, provides twice-monthly news, green living tips, and ways to take action on energy issues.
www.sierraclub.typepad.com/compass
Sustainable Life Media
Produces live and virtual sustainable business conferences and educational events (including the industry-leading Sustainable Brands conference) and offers targeted e-newsletters on eco-strategy, sustainable business, sustainable brands, green design, and an online community.
www.sustainablelifemedia.com
Sustainable Materials
Site of the Centre for Design at Royal Melbourne Institute of Technology with resources on sustainable materials, projects, tools, publications, training, and links.
www.cfd.rmit.edu.au/programs/sustainable_materials
SustainableBusiness.com
Targeted to new green ventures, includes daily news, reportage of sustainable stocks, and the SB newswire where businesses can post their press releases. Features links for green investing, sustainable job services, and business networking.
www.sustainablebusiness.com
Sustainablog.org
Provides information on environmental and economic sustainability, green and sustainable business, and environmental politics. Regularly features environmental leaders and experts in alternative energy and green technology.
www.sustainablog.org
Wal-Mart Canada ShareGreen
A platform which allows the public to browse and discuss the sustainable business practices of Canadian industries. Contains case studies that focus on waste, water, and energy management, sustainable solutions, and employee engagement. Initial case studies from Pepsi, Nike, and Stonyfield Farm.
sharegreen.ca
Worldchanging
This nonprofit online magazine, written by a global network of independent journalists, designers, and thinkers, features tools, models, and ideas for addressing environmental concerns related to building, transportation, communications, and quality of life.
www.worldchanging.com
Consumer-oriented and social networking websites
Amazon Green
Special section of Amazon.com’s website, highlighting consumer-selected greener products.
www.amazon.com/green
Animal Fair
Lifestyle magazine for animal lovers and pet owners.
www.animalfair.com
Buygreen.com
A shopping site for consumer products ranging from bamboo clothing to solar-powered lights.
www.buygreen.com
Carbonrally.com
Assists consumers in reducing their carbon footprint.
www.carbonrally.com
Care2
Powered by Care2, a for-profit business, one of the largest online communities of people making a difference in healthy and green living, human rights and animal welfare. Includes free email, as well as shopping at the Eco-Superstore, healthy tips, eco news, petitions and alerts. Accepts advertising.
www.care2.com
Celsias.com
Helps consumers combat climate change. Users can read articles, join conversations, ask questions, commit to actions to reduce their carbon footprint, and create, join, and rate climate change projects. Companies can post information on what they are doing to reduce climate impact.
www.celsias.com
Change.org
Raises awareness about global warming, homelessness, women’s rights, human trafficking, healthcare, and criminal justice. Provides information about how to take action with leading nonprofit organizations.
www.change.org
ClimateCounts.org
With the goal of bringing consumers and companies together to fight global climate change, this website rates the world’s leading companies on climate impact and posts the resulting scores on the website’s scorecard.
climatecounts.org
TheDailyGreen.com
Billing itself as “the consumer’s guide to the green revolution,” this lifestyle site owned by Hearst Communications provides news, information, and a community about going green. Accepts advertising.
www.thedailygreen.com
Do Something
Not-for-profit organization that promotes voluntarism among teens.
www.dosomething.org
Dwell
Magazine focusing on eco home design, products, and comfortable living.
www.dwell.com
E – The Environmental Magazine
Information, news, and resources for consumers concerned about the environment. Available both online and in print.
www.emagazine.com
Gaiam
Founded in Boulder, Colorado in 1988, Gaiam is a provider of information, goods, and services for people who value the environment, a sustainable economy, healthy lifestyles, alternative healthcare, and personal development.
www.gaiam.com
Global Green USA
The American arm of Green Cross International created by President Mikhail S. Gorbachev, focuses on stemming global climate change by creating green buildings and cities. The Green Building Resources center features building strategies and products that mitigate any adverse effects on the environment.
www.globalgreen.org
GoodGuide
Assigns 70,000 food, toys, personal care, and household consumer products a rating, combining health, environmental, and social performance, on a 1–10 scale. Also features articles about current environmental issues, such as buying organic and local.
www.goodguide.com
The Green Guide
A product of National Geographic Magazine. Comprehensive source of lifestyle greening, complete with green buying guides of products ranging from food and personal care, home and garden, to travel. Accepts advertising.
www.thegreenguide.com
GreenerChoices
A website of Consumer Reports, informs consumers of products and green ratings, hot topics, and solutions. The website features a “Toolkit” section including several different calculators and a section on toxic chemicals found in consumer products.
www.greenerchoices.org
GreenHome.com
Comprehensive online shopping site for greener products. Offers advice and information on greening one’s life.
www.greenhome.com
HealthyStuff.org
Shopping tool listing test results on the chemical composition of more than 5,000 consumer products.
www.healthystuff.org
IGive.com
Up to 26% of each purchase made at this online store goes to shoppers’ favorite causes. Among the 700+ stores in the network are Gap, Staples, Nordstrom, and Best Buy.
www.igive.com
Ideal Bite
Now owned by Disney, provides daily “Go Green” eco-living tips aimed at helping “light green” consumers take simple steps towards change.
family.go.com
MakeMeSustainable
Individuals, families, and businesses can join this online community to calculate their carbon footprint and learn about ways to reduce it.
makemesustainable.com
Natural Awakenings
A magazine with 2.5 million readers promoting a holistic orientation to nutrition, fitness, creative expression, personal growth, and sustainable living
www.naturalawakeningsmag.com
Natural Health Group
Commercial website providing information on vegetarian, vegan, and raw diets.
www.naturalhealthgroup.org
Natural Life Magazine
Website of magazine founded in 1976. Serves “thinking people around the world who want positive alternatives to high cost, high consumption lifestyles for themselves and their families.”
www.naturallifemagazine.com
Organic Authority
Commercial website selling organic products and offering information promoting organic lifestyle.
www.organicauthority.com
Planet Green
One of Discovery’s multi-platform channels of sustainable living ideas, energy conservation tips, freecycle information, green shopping, and more. Accepts advertising.
planetgreen.discovery.com
Skin Deep Cosmetic Safety Database
Database produced by the Environmental Working Group. Provides chemical composition and safety scores for over 50,000 cosmetic products.
www.cosmeticsdatabase.com
The Story of Stuff
Official website for this highly popular 20-minute animation of the consumerist society. Includes footnoted script, credits, blog, and resources.
www.storyofstuff.com
Treehugger.com
A Discovery Company website that allows users to get informed, interact, and take action. Features include information about green design and living, pop quizzes, and a sustainability-related job board.
www.treehugger.com
WorldCoolers
An online grassroots initiative that aims to raise public awareness of global warming. Website features a free downloadable Web browser add-on that gives updates on global warming topics.
www.worldcoolers.org
Yahoo! Green
Advertiser-sponsored mega-site for shopping and news, blogs, and tools for living green
green.yahoo.com
Organizations
Business, government agencies, trade groups, environmental advocacy
1% for the Planet
A not-for-profit that facilitates businesses in donating at least 1% of their annual revenues to environmental organizations worldwide.
www.onepercentfortheplanet.org
Advertising Standards Authority
UK’s independent regulator investigates complaints and monitors advertisements for false, offensive, or misleading information.
www.asa.org.uk
Advertising Standards Canada
Canada’s independent self-regulatory nonprofit body that handles complaints on false, misleading, and harmful advertising campaigns.
www.adstandards.com
Alliance to Save Energy
Nonprofit coalition of business, government, and consumer leaders supporting energy efficiency and policies that minimize energy costs and lessen greenhouse gas emissions. The organization does research, conducts educational programs, advocates policies, designs and implements energy-efficient projects, and promotes technology development.
ase.org
American Center for Life Cycle Assessment (ACLCA)
Nonprofit membership organization, and part of the Institute for Environmental Research and Education (IERE), created to build capacity and knowledge of life-cycle assessment among industry, government, and NGOs. Developed and manages the Life Cycle Assessment Certified Professional (LCACP) Certification.
www.lcacenter.org
American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy (ACEEE)
Nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing energy efficiency as a means of promoting both economic prosperity and environmental protection. Contains extensive consumer resources on appliances, cars, lighting, etc.
www.aceee.org
American Hiking Society
A recreation-based nonprofit organization that champions conservation issues, builds partnerships between public and private stakeholders, and provides critical resources to plan, fund, and develop foot trails.
www.americanhiking.org
American Rivers
With 65,000 members, protects and restores rivers for the benefit of people, wildlife, and nature.
www.americanrivers.org
Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC)
As part of its primary responsibility to ensure that individuals and businesses comply with the Commonwealth competition, fair trading, and consumer protection laws, the ACCC publishes the Green Marketing and the Trade Practices Act which assists manufacturers, suppliers, advertisers, and others to assess the strength of any environmental claims they make and to improve the accuracy and usefulness to consumers of their labeling, packaging, and advertising.
www.accc.gov.au
B Lab Corporation
A nonprofit organization that bestows B Corporation certification ratings for businesses that meet comprehensive and transparent social and environmental standards and institutionalize stakeholder interests.
www.bcorporation.net
Beyond Pesticides
Formerly National Coalition against the Misuse of Pesticides, it seeks to eradicate pesticide use via identifying risks and promoting non-chemical and least hazardous alternatives.
www.beyondpesticides.org
Biodegradable Products Institute
A nonprofit association of key individuals and groups from government, industry, and academia that educates manufacturers, legislators, and consumers about the importance of biodegradable materials. The association also promotes the use and recovery of compostable materials through municipal and backyard composting.
www.bpiworld.org
Biomimicry Institute
Nonprofit organization that promotes the study and imitation of nature’s designs.
www.biomimicryinstitute.org
Canopy
Based in Palo Alto, California, this nonprofit organization advocates for the urban forest and works to educate, inspire, and engage the community as stewards of young and mature trees.
www.canopy.org
Carbon Disclosure Project
Nonprofit organization holding the largest database of primary corporate climate change information in the world to support financial and policy decision-making. Represents institutional investors and 60 businesses including Cadbury, PepsiCo, and Wal-Mart.
www.cdproject.net
Carbon Trust
Set up by the British government, this London-based nonprofit company offers products and services geared towards saving energy, managing carbon management, and developing low-carbon technology. Featured support services include energy-efficiency loans, carbon surveys, an action plan tool, a carbon footprint calculator, and applied research grants. Offers the Carbon Reduction Label for use on consumer products.
www.carbontrust.co.uk
Center for a New American Dream
With the goal of helping Americans consume responsibly, enhance quality of life and promote social justice, this nonprofit group offers an action network, campaigns and program information, a community action guide, publications available for download, as well as sections for kids and teens.
www.newdream.org
Centre for Sustainable Design
Led by sustainability expert Martin Charter, and established in 1995 within the Faculty of Design, The Surrey Institute of Art & Design, University College, UK, this organization facilitates discussion and research on eco-design and environmental, economic, ethical, and social considerations in product and service development and design. Featured services and resources include research and training projects, an annual Sustainable Innovation conference, workshops, consultancy, and publications. The Centre also acts as an information clearinghouse and a focus for innovative thinking on sustainable products and services.
www.cfsd.org.uk
Ceres
A North American network of investors, environmental organizations, and other public interest groups working with companies and investors to address sustainability issues such as global climate change.
www.ceres.org
Choice
Formerly known as the Australian Consumer’s Association, focuses on testing and ranking various consumer products in addition to reporting on false advertising.
www.choice.com.au
Conservation International
Using science, policy and fieldwork to protect our planet’s resources.
www.conservation.org
Defenders of Wildlife
Founded in 1947, a nonprofit organization dedicated to protecting native plants and animals.
www.defenders.org
Department for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Defra)
The UK government body responsible for policy and regulations. Its priorities are to support British farming and encourage sustainable food production, help to enhance the environment and biodiversity, and support a strong and sustainable green economy, resilient to climate change.
www.defra.gov.uk
Earth Day Network
Educates the public and organizes global activism for a cleaner planet.
www.earthday.net/
Earthjustice
Formerly the Sierra Club Legal Defense Fund, this national nonprofit law firm lobbies for environmental legislation and takes legal action to stop environmental offenses by industries in the areas of climate and energy, wildlife and places, health and toxics.
www.earthjustice.org
Ecolabel Index
The largest global database of eco-labels, tracking 328 eco-labels in 207 countries and 40 industry sectors as of 2010
www.ecolabelindex.com
The Economics of Ecosystems and Biodiversity (TEEB)
International initiative created to draw attention to the global economic benefits of biodiversity and the growing costs of biodiversity loss and ecosystem degradation. It brings together expertise from the fields of science, economics, and policy.
www.teebweb.org
Electronics TakeBack Coalition
Promotes green design and responsible recycling in the electronics industry to protect the health and well-being of electronics users, workers, and the communities where electronics are produced and discarded. It urges consumer electronics manufacturers and brand owners to take full responsibility for the life-cycle of their products, through public policy requirements or enforceable agreements.
www.electronicstakeback.com
Environmental Defense Fund
A nonprofit environmental advocacy group that partners with Fortune 500 businesses, governments, and communities to advocate market-based solutions to environmental problems. Website features publications and resource tools for businesses to reduce their environmental footprint.
www.edf.org
Environmental Media Association
Mobilizes the entertainment industry to educate and inspire the public to act on environmental issues.
www.ema-online.org
Environmental Protection UK
Nonprofit organization based in the UK that focuses on environmental policy, campaigns, and innovation. Brings together industry leaders, academics, policy makers, and the public to bring about environmental change.
www.environmental-protection.org.uk
Environmental Working Group
A nonprofit environmental and consumer advocacy group providing information and promoting legislation on the human health and environmental impacts of consumer products.
www.ewg.org
European Advertising Standards Alliance
A nonprofit organization that brings together self-regulatory advertising organizations in Europe and also Australia, Brazil, Canada, Chile, India, New Zealand, and South Africa to promote ethical standards in advertising through self-regulation.
www.easa-alliance.org
European Environmental Bureau
Federation of European environmental citizens’ organizations. Website has news, environmental articles, events, policy. It also lists active environmental organizations in Europe.
www.eeb.org
Federal Trade Commission
Publishes “Green Guides,” Guides for the Use of Environmental Marketing Claims, general principles, and specific examples
www.ftc.gov/bcp/grnrule/guides980427.htm
Friends of the Earth
Environmental nonprofit organization with a network of grassroots organizations in 77 countries that focuses on global warming, toxic technologies, and promoting smarter, low-pollution transportation alternatives.
www.foe.org
Global Environmental Declaration Network (GEDnet)
An international nonprofit organization of Type III environmental declaration organizations and practitioners, organizing and allowing an open exchange of information on the various Type III environmental product declaration programs.
www.gednet.org
Global Footprint Network
International think-tank working to advance sustainability through use of the Ecological Footprint, a resource accounting tool and data-driven metric that allows the calculation of human pressure on the planet.
www.footprintnetwork.org
Global Reporting Initiative
Network-based organization that has developed the world’s most widely used sustainability reporting framework involving business, civil society, labor, and professional institutions.
www.globalreporting.org
Green America
Formerly known as Co-op America, this national not-for-profit organization promotes sustainability and social and economic justice through strategic efforts aimed towards individuals, businesses, and communities. Resources include National Green Pages, a directory listing of thousands of businesses that have made commitments to sustainable, socially just principles, Green Business Network, an education system for environmentally responsible consumption and investing, and Green Festivals in major U.S. cities.
www.greenamericatoday.org
Green Design Institute, Carnegie Mellon University
Offers green design courses and provides a space for companies, foundations, and government agencies to discuss issues of environmental quality and economic development.
www.ce.cmu.edu/GreenDesign
GreenerChoices
Website for consumers run by Consumers Union, the nonprofit publisher of Consumer Reports. Provides in-depth information on green consumer products and practices.
www.greenerchoices.org
Greenhouse Gas Protocol Initiative
Partnership between the World Resources Institute and the World Business Council for Sustainable Development working with businesses, governments, and environmental groups worldwide “to build a new generation of credible and effective programs for tackling climate change.” Developed the most widely used international accounting tool for government and business leaders to understand, quantify, and manage greenhouse gas emissions.
www.ghgprotocol.org
Greenpeace
A global campaigning organization that acts to change attitudes and behavior, to protect and conserve the environment by addressing such issues as energy, oceans, ancient forests, toxics, and sustainable agriculture. Campaigns have featured “Greening the Apple” (Apple Inc.) and “Kleercut” (Kimberly-Clark).
www.greenpeace.org
IEG
Provides consulting, valuation, measurement, research and training to the global sponsorship industry. Develops ways for companies and brands to partner with sports, arts, events, entertainment, nonprofit, and causes.
www.sponsorship.com
Impact Reporting and Investment Standards
Initiative developed by the Rockefeller Foundation, Acumen Fund, and B Lab to create a common framework for defining, tracking, and reporting the performance of impact capital that will allow comparison and communication across organizations that have social or environmental impact as a primary driver.
iris.thegiin.org
Industrial Designers Society of America
Annual IDEA awards feature environmental criteria. Resources in eco-design provided by eco-design special interest group.
www.idsa.org
International Association for Soaps, Detergents and Maintenance Products (AISE)
Dedicated to the sustainable improvement of products for hygiene, detergents and household and industrial maintenance products. Manages the Washright campaign in the European Union to promote responsible laundry care.
www.aise.eu
J. Ottman Consulting, Inc.
Founded in 1989 by green marketing expert and author Jacquelyn Ottman, advises Fortune 500, entrepreneurial firms, and government agencies on strategies for green marketing and sustainable product innovation. Ottman is the author of The New Rules of Green Marketing.
www.greenmarketing.com
Japan Environment Association
Founded in 1977, the JEA is concerned with Japan’s environmental conservation activities. Their main areas of focus are: global warming, promoting the green marketplace, and environmental education.
www.jeas.or.jp
Japan Environmental Management Association for Industry
Established in 1962, this public organization with 1,100 member companies focuses on environmental assessments, air and water pollution, and global environmental issues. JEMAI controls the Eco-Leaf Product Environmental Aspects Declaration program.
www.jemai.or.jp
KaBOOM!
A nonprofit dedicated to create play spaces for children in the U.S.
kaboom.org
Life Cycle Initiative
International life-cycle partnership launched by the United Nations Environment Programme and the Society for Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry to put life-cycle thinking into practice and improve supporting tools through better data and indicators.
lcinitiative.unep.fr
Material Connexion
Member-based global materials consultancy and library of innovative and sustainable materials.
materialconnexion.com
National Advertising Division, Council of Better Business Bureaus
Reviews advertising for truthfulness and accuracy and makes its findings available to the public.
www.nadreview.org
National Audubon Society
A national network of community-based nature centers and chapters. Conserves and restores natural bird ecosystems.
www.audubon.org
National Geographic Society
Nonprofit scientific and educational organization that promotes the globalization of geographic knowledge while conserving the world’s cultural, historical, and natural resources.
www.nationalgeographic.com
National Institute for Environmental Studies
Japanese environmental organization that focuses on environmental research. Areas of interest include health, chemicals, waste, and recycling.
www.nies.go.jp
National Wildlife Federation
Nonprofit organization with more than 4 million members, geared toward protecting wildlife and confronting global warming.
www.nwf.org
Natural Marketing Institute
Consulting, market research, and business development company specializing in the health and wellness marketplace. Authors of the LOHAS Consumer Report.
www.nmisolutions.com
Natural Resources Defense Council
With 1.3 million members and online activists, an environmental action group combining grassroots with scientists and other professionals aimed at safeguarding the Earth’s people, plants, animals, and natural systems.
www.nrdc.org
The Natural Step
Not-for-profit organization that promotes a science-based model to help communities and businesses better understand and integrate environmental, social, and economic considerations. Working with companies, municipalities, academic institutions, and not-for-profit organizations.
www.naturalstep.org
The Nature Conservancy
Nonprofit conservation organization working to protect ecologically important lands and waters.
www.nature.org
O2 Global Network
Members of this global network organize lectures, projects, workshops, and distribute newsletters and other material to promote, teach, and implement sustainable design. The O2 site includes resources on sustainable design and a global listserv.
www.o2.org
Open MIC
Nonprofit using market feedback to make corporate management practices of the media industry more open and responsible.
www.openmic.org
Organic Consumers Association
Online and grassroots nonprofit dealing with issues of food safety, industrial agriculture, genetic engineering, children’s health, environmental sustainability, and fair trade.
www.organicconsumers.org
Organic Exchange
A membership organization focused on increasing the production and use of organically grown fibers.
www.organicexchange.org
People for the Ethical Treatment of Animals
Nonprofit group that promotes animal rights via campaigns including ending fur and leather use, meat and dairy consumption, factory farming, circuses, and bull fighting.
www.peta.org
Planet Ark
Nonprofit organization based in Australia that aims to teach both individuals and businesses simple ways in which they can make substantial reductions to their environmental impact.
planetark.org
Project (RED)
Businesses donate 50% of the profits of (RED) products to help buy and distribute antiretroviral medicine for those dying of AIDS in Africa.
www.joinred.com
Rocky Mountain Institute
Independent, entrepreneurial nonprofit think-tank of a group of industry experts, thought leaders, and engineers engaged in research that addresses pragmatic designs, practices, and policies related to energy and resources, with a strong emphasis on market-based solutions.
www.rmi.org/rmi
Sierra Club
A nonprofit environmental advocacy organization founded in 1892 that combines legal action, information campaigns, and cooperative partnerships with industry to protect America’s wild places.
www.sierraclub.org
Silicon Valley Toxics Coalition
A nonprofit organization engaged in research, advocacy, and grassroots organizing to promote human health and environmental justice related to the high-tech industry. Has advocated for electronics companies to reduce and eventually eliminate the use of toxic chemicals in the design and manufacturing of products and the implementation of extended producer responsibility at end of product life.
www.svtc.org/site/PageServer
Slow Food
With 100,000 members in 132 countries, a nonprofit member-supported organization that aims to counteract fast food and fast life and the disappearance of local food traditions, and raise awareness of how food tastes and how our food choices affect the rest of the world.
www.slowfoodusa.org
Surfrider Foundation
A nonprofit environmental organization dedicated to the protection and enjoyment of the world’s waves and beaches through conservation, education, research, and activism.
www.surfrider.org
Sustainability Consortium
Stewarded by Wal-Mart, a partnership of researchers from leading global universities, NGOs, governmental agencies, and business partners, created with the goal of establishing scientific standards to measure the sustainability of consumer products and ultimately developing scientifically valid and coherent product indexes to allow retailers compare consumer products.
www.sustainabilityconsortium.org
Sustainable Investment Research Analyst Network (SIRAN)
Supportive network for analysts taking an environmental, social, or governance approach to investment studies.
www.siran.org
Sustainable Packaging Coalition
Industry working group develops educational resources and tools on sustainable packaging. Featured projects and resources include a comparative packaging assessment tool, sustainable performance indicators and metrics, design guidelines for sustainable packaging, and environmental technical briefs.
www.sustainablepackaging.org
TNS Media Intelligence
Tracks competitive media expenditures and creative ads for advertising agencies, advertisers, broadcasters, and publishers.
www.tns-mi.com/aboutIndex.htm
United Nations Environment Programme
Founded in 1972 to coordinate and manage United Nations environmental initiatives, research, and policies.
www.unep.org
Wildlife Conservation Society
Founded in 1895, this organization manages 500 conservation projects in 60 countries aimed at saving wildlife.
www.wcs.org
Women’s Voices for the Earth
Nonprofit organization that researches the health impacts of consumer products, including cosmetic and household cleaning products.
www.womenandenvironment.org
World Business Council for Sustainable Development
CEO-led global association of about 200 companies from more than 35 countries and 20 major industrial sectors. Provides a platform for companies to explore sustainable development, share knowledge, experiences, and best practices, and to advocate business positions in a variety of forums, working with governments and non-governmental and intergovernmental organizations. Four key areas include energy and climate, development, the business role, and ecosystems.
www.wbcsd.org
World Resources Institute
Environmental think-tank working with business partners, governments, and civil society, with over 50 active projects focused on global climate change, sustainable markets, ecosystem protection, and environmentally responsible governance.
www.wri.org
Worldwatch Institute
Independent research organization led by Lester Brown focused on developing and disseminating data and strategies to address challenges of climate change, resource degradation, population growth, and poverty. Priority programs include Energy & Climate, Food & Agriculture, and Green Economy.
www.worldwatch.org
Zerofootprint
Zerofootprint Software applies technology, design, and risk management to reduce the world’s environmental footprint and provides clients with tailored carbon management solutions. The Zerofootprint Foundation engages government, educators, and other not-for-profits to combat climate change.
www.zerofootprint.net
Certification and eco-labeling organizations
Aquaculture Certification Council
This certification recognizes aquaculture that meets social, environmental, and food safety standards.
www.aquaculturecertification.org
ASTM International
Originally known as the American Society for Testing and Materials, one of the largest voluntary standards organizations focused on technical standards for materials, products, systems, and services. ASTM has developed sustainability standards or has expertise in areas including soil, water, air quality, and waste management.
www.astm.org
Blue Angel
The official eco-label of Germany, covering 10,000 products and services. Awards made on single attributes representing greatest areas of impact per category.
blauer-engel.de
Bluesign
A global network of representatives from the scientific and political communities, trade and industry, and consumer and environmental organizations. The Bluesign standard ensures environmental responsibility, health and safety with the production of textiles.
www.bluesign.com
Carbon Trust
Provides Carbon Reduction label intended to help consumers better understand a product’s carbon footprint.
www.carbontrust.co.uk
Center for Resource Solutions
A national nonprofit focusing on research and marketing of renewable energy options. Promotes the Green-e label for renewable energy.
www.resource-solutions.org
Cradle to Cradle Certification
Assesses a product’s safety to humans and the environment and design for future life-cycles in the categories of materials, material reutilization, energy, water, and social responsibility. Products can be certified at four levels: Basic, Silver, Gold, Platinum.
www.c2ccertified.com
Eco Mark
Japan’s voluntary multi-attribute eco-labeling program covering a wide range of consumer products.
www.ecomark.jp
EcoLogo
A multi-attribute environmental standard and certification mark founded in Canada but now available worldwide.
www.environmentalchoice.com
EPEAT
Not-for-profit organization managed and operated by the Green Electronics Council of the International Sustainable Development Foundation. Evaluates electronic products in relation to 51 total environmental criteria, identified in IEEE 1680 standards.
www.epeat.net
EU Ecolabel
A voluntary multi-attribute scheme administered by the European Eco-labeling Board with the support of the European Commission. Covers a wide range of products and services, including cleaning products, appliances, paper products, textile and home and garden products, lubricants, and services such as tourist accommodation.
www.eco-label.com
Fairtrade Foundation
UK member organization of Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International.
www.fairtrade.org.uk
Fairtrade Labelling Organizations International (FLO)
An international network of 24 designated nonprofits that are responsible for issuing licenses to use the “FAIRTRADE” label on products (includes Transfair [U.S.] and Fairtrade Foundation [UK]).
www.fairtrade.net
Forest Stewardship Council
Internationally recognized standard of responsible forestry.
www.fsc.org
Good Environmental Choice – Australia
Australia’s voluntary multi-attribute environmental labeling program covering a wide range of products.
www.geca.org.au
Global Organic Textile Standard
Worldwide standard for organic textiles based on materials and processes used throughout production.
www.global-standard.org
Green Good Housekeeping Seal
Launched by Good Housekeeping magazine in 2009 to help consumers recognize products that have earned high ratings based on a wide range of environmental criteria and effectiveness.
www.goodhousekeeping.com/product-testing/history/welcome-gh-seal
Green Seal
One of the oldest independent nonprofit labeling organizations, develops standards for and certifies a wide range of environmentally responsible commercial and consumer products and services including cleaning aids, building and maintenance materials, and lodging properties.
www.greenseal.org
International Organization for Standardization (ISO)
Based in Geneva, Switzerland, ISO is a non-governmental network of national standards institutes of 163 countries and the world’s largest developer and publisher of voluntary international standards. The ISO Catalogue includes more than 18,000 published International Standards, including ISO 14001 for corporate environmental management and ISO 14020 for eco-labeling.
www.iso.org
Marine Stewardship Council
Fish certified by this global program are from wild capture fisheries that practice sustainable fishing and protect the local ecosystems.
www.msc.org
National Standard for Sustainable Forest Management (Canadian Standards Association)
Products with this label comply with national and international environmental standards for forest management.
www.csa-international.org/product_areas/forest_products_marking
NSF International
Nonprofit organization founded in 1944 to certify products and write standards related to public health, safety, and the environment for food, water, and consumer goods.
www.nsf.org
Programme for the Endorsement of Forest Certification
The PEFC label can be found on wood and paper products from forests that are certified by an independent member of this international nonprofit association to be sustainably managed. Sustainable Forestry Program located in the U.S. is a member.
www.pefc.org
Protected Harvest
Agricultural products with this label come from farms with rigorous environmental growing standards.
www.protectedharvest.org
Rainforest Alliance
Independent certification of forestry and agricultural products along with verification of forest and farm projects that aim to reduce carbon emissions.
www.rainforest-alliance.org
Scientific Certification Systems
Develops standards attesting to the quality and sustainable production of various agriculture, manufacturing, and energy products.
www.scscertified.com
TransFair USA
A nonprofit that is the only third-party certifier of Fair Trade products for the U.S. The Fair Trade Certified label can be applied to coffee, tea and herbs, cocoa and chocolate, fresh fruit, flowers, sugar, rice, and vanilla. Certified farms practice environmentally sustainable farming methods and follow the Fair Trade community-oriented principles of fair labor conditions for workers.
www.transfairusa.org
ULEnvironment
A division of UL; certifies environmental claims and develops standards.
www.ulenvironment.com
United States Department of Agriculture
Through the National Organic Program develops, implements, and administers national production, handling, and labeling standards for organic agricultural products, including the USDA Organic label. Also home to the USDA BioPreferred government procurement program and voluntary consumer label.
www.usda.gov
United States Department of Energy
Maintains the Energy Guide for appliances, and co-manages the ENERGY STAR label (with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency). www.energy.gov
United States Environmental Protection Agency
U.S. government agency that maintains the Design for the Environment (www.epa.gov/dfe), ENERGY STAR (energystar.gov), SmartWay transportation (www.epa.gov/smartway), and WaterSense (www.epa.gov/WaterSense) voluntary labels.
United States Green Building Council
Maintains the LEED (Leadership for Energy and Environmental Design) rating system for sustainable building design and construction.
www.usgbc.org
Books
Business, design and sustainability
Companies on a Mission: Entrepreneurial Strategies for Growing Sustainably, Responsibly, and Profitably
Michael V. Russo (Stanford University Press, 2010)
The Clean Tech Revolution
Ron Pernik and Clint Wilder (Harper Collins Publishers, 2008)
Co-opportunity: Join Up for a Sustainable, Resilient, Prosperous World
John Grant (John Wiley & Sons, 2010)
Confessions of a Radical Industrialist: Profits, People, Purpose – Doing Business by Respecting the Earth
Ray C. Anderson (St. Martin’s Press, 2009)
Driving Eco-innovation
Claude Fussler with Peter James (Pitman Publishing, 1996)
Ecological Intelligence: How Knowing the Hidden Impacts of What We Buy Can Change Everything
Daniel Goleman (Broadway Business, 2009)
The Green Marketing Manifesto
John Grant (John Wiley & Sons, 2008)
Green Recovery: Get Lean, Get Smart, and Emerge from the Downturn on Top
Andrew Winston (Harvard Business Press, 2009)
Hot, Flat, and Crowded: Why We Need a Green Revolution – and How It Can Renew America
Thomas L. Friedman (Farrar Straus & Giroux, 2008)
Life Cycle Assessment: Principles, Practice and Prospects
Ralph Horne, Tim Grant, and Karli Verghese (CSIRO Publishing, 2009)
Packaging Sustainability: Tools, Systems and Strategies for Innovative Package Design
Wendy Jedlicka (John Wiley & Sons, 2008)
Plan B 4.0: Mobilizing to Save Civilization
Lester R. Brown (Earth Policy Institute, 2009)
The Plot to Save the Planet: How Visionary Entrepreneurs and Corporate Titans are Creating Real Solutions to Global Warming
Brian Dumaine (Crown Business, 2008)
The Psychology of Climate Change Communication: A Guide for Scientists, Journalists, Educators, Political Aides, and the Interested Public
Center for Research on Environmental Decisions (Columbia University in the City of New York, 2009; free download at
www.cred.columbia.edu/guide)
Strategy for Sustainability: A Business Manifesto
Adam Werbach (Harvard Business Press, 2009)
Sustainability by Design: A Subversive Strategy for Transforming Our Consumer Culture
John R. Ehrenfeld (Yale University Press, 2008)
The Sustainability Champion’s Guidebook: How to Transform Your Company
Bob Willard (New Society Publishers, 2009)
Sustainable Energy – Without the Hot Air
David J.C. MacKay (UIT Cambridge Ltd., 2009; free download at
www.withouthotair.com)
The Truth about Green Business
Gil Friend (FT Press, 2009)
Consumer books
50 Simple Things You Can Do to Save the Earth
John Javna, Sophie Javna, and Jesse Javna (Hyperion, 2008)
Big Green Purse: Use Your Spending Power to Create a Cleaner, Greener World
Diane MacEachern (Avery, 2008)
Generation Green: The Ultimate Teen Guide to Living an Eco-friendly Life
Linda Sivertsen and Tosh Sivertsen (Simon Pulse, 2008)
Green, Greener, Greenest: A Practical Guide to Making Eco-smart Choices a Part of Your Life
Lori Bongiorno (Perigee Trade, 2008)
Green Guide: The Complete Reference for Consuming Wisely
(National Geographic, 2008)
Gorgeously Green: 8 Simple Steps to an Earth-friendly Life
Sophie Uliano (Collins Living, 2008)
It’s Easy Being Green: A Handbook for Earth Friendly Living
Crissy Trask (Gibbs Smith, 2006)
The Lazy Environmentalist: Your Guide to Easy, Stylish, Green Living
Josh Dorfman (Harry N Abrams, 2007)
Living Like Ed: A Guide to the Eco-friendly Life
Ed Begley Jr. (Clarkson N. Potter, 2008)
Ready, Set, Green: Eight Weeks to Modern Eco-living
Graham Hill and Meaghan O’Neill (Villard Books, 2008)
Simple Prosperity: Finding Real Wealth in a Sustainable Lifestyle
David Wann (St. Martin’s Press, 2007)
Squeaky Green: The Method Guide to Detoxing Your Home
Eric Ryan and Adam Lowry (Chronicle Books, 2008)
Toolbox for Sustainable Living: A Do-It-Ourselves Guide
Scott Kellogg and Stacy Pettigrew (South End Press, 2008)
Worldchanging: A User’s Guide for the 21st Century
Alex Steffen (Abrams, 2008)