Sustainability Today -- Summer 2022 by Innovation & Tech Today

IS AI CHANGING THE ENVIRONMENT FOR THE BETTER?

SUMMER 2022

Alex Honnold Conquers The Last Tepui

Biden’s 2030 Climate Goals

Urban Greening & Bee Conservation

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From the Editor

PHOTO: Jw. / Unsplash

Dear Readers, FOR YEARS NOW, we’ve watched as new innovations have paved the way to a more sustainable world. Creative new pathways to sustainable energy have helped advance us as a nation to the position we are in today. Solar, wind and hydro energy have taken monumental leaps over the decades, and still offer more promise in the future. But, they’re not the only game in town. This issue focuses on smart city initiatives that are actively leading the world to a more sustainable future. Nearly every major city in the nation is taking steps to be more proactive, as well as deal with issues that are already in place. One thing we’re seeing is the increasing use of artificial intelligence to better manage and predict patterns in everything from public transportation to the shipping industry. Now more than ever, we are seeing companies looking to sustainability not only as an eco-conscious solution, but as a way to stretch their dollars and be more financially responsible. Whether it is by finding new packaging options or changing a manufacturing process, it IS possible to be both fiscally responsible and environmentally minded.

S US T A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

We’ve moved past fights over carbon caps and credits and into the era of designing new facilities and factories with a goal of being energy-neutral. That’s a major step from the 1970s when companies were still dumping manufacturing waste into local ponds and streams. The world is changing, and with that, so are the long-term corporate plans. Even traffic is slowly but surely undergoing a more ecofriendly overhaul. Items like GPS and in-road sensors are cutting commutes for workers, and people are being alerted earlier than ever about potential traffic jams and slowdowns. Learn more about how these new models are being implemented in this issue’s cover story that begins on page 32. What cities are doing a great job? Which cities are falling behind the curve? These are the questions we look to answer moving forward. We hope you find this issue as fun to read as we did to write. We wish you and yours a great summer ahead. Think Sustainably,

Corey Noles

EDITORIAL Publisher/ Editor-in-Chief

Managing Editors

Charles Warner

Patricia Miller Corey Noles

cwarner@goipw.com

BUSINESS Chief Financial Officer

Mary Roche V.P. Business Development

Creative Director

Associate Managing Editor

Shane Brisson

Erin James

shane@goipw.com

Social Media Coordinator Contributing Writers

Executive Editor

Robert Yehling

Steven Higgins

Beth Covington Jane Marsh John Reilly Aron Vaughan Rob Weinberg

Crystal Segovia Gomez

Lead Designer

Open Look Design Team This publication is dedicated to the dreamers, the innovators, the collaborators and the doers — who can’t be bothered by those saying it can’t be done. Nicholas and Aria, the future is yours! Member, Society of Environmental Journalists

SPECIAL THANKS Caitlan Caviness – Technical Communications Dustin Clendenen – Master Fluid Solutions Sustainable Brands

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Contents 02 08

From the Editor Envirobits VertiFarm Set to Launch … Bag Lady Book Takes #1 … A Call for Caps on Plastics … Cali Offshore Wind Development Targets … Water Scarcity to Worsen … Sustainability-Focused Bonds … Stanford to Launch Climate Change School … and More!

COLUMN 16 Marketing Your Recycling COVER 32 Smart City Initiatives are Creating the Framework for a More Sustainable World The first step toward creating a smart city is utilizing the digital intelligence we hold in our hands (sometimes obsessively) throughout the day. Smartphones have the power to direct real-time data to a technology base. FEATURES

How to Meet Biden’s 2030 Climate Goals Using Today’s Tech

Sustainable Clothing for Greater Peace of Mind

Automated Machinery Coming to Agriculture

Urban Greening is the Unlikely Solution to Bee Conservation

Big Oil is Giving (a Little) Back to the Gulf States

How is AI Improving the Environment?

Alex Honnold Conquers The Last Tepui for National Geographic

Bringing Soul and Health to Sustainability

The Benefits of Second-Hand Clothing Shopping

Product Revolution

S US T A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

Particle Sizing You Can Count On.

2022

Envirobits

COMPILED BY ERIN JAMES AND ARON VAUGHAN

VertiFarm 2022 Set to Launch with a Broad Range of Exhibitors PHOTO: Markus Spiske / Unsplash

S US T A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

Envirobits

Bag Lady Takes Number One Spot on Amazon’s Green Business Chart LISA D. FOSTER'S ground-breaking memoir Bag Lady is making waves and inspiring readers, even taking a prestigious number one spot on Amazon's green business chart. Bag Lady is a masterful case study in how to PHOTOS: Louis Hiemstra / iStock

ERTIFARM, the international trade show for next-level farming and new food systems, will be taking place at Messe Dortmund for the first time Sept. 27-29. The venue operator is already announcing a small preview of what promises to be a wealth of innovative exhibitors. The focus of VertiFarm will be the sustainable cultivation of fresh food in the immediate vicinity of densely populated urban areas and as a future mainstay for feeding the world's population. Exhibitors will be able to make useful contact with potential new customers, manufacturers, distributors and other key players in the industry. Visitors to the show will gain an up-to-the-minute overview of new products and production systems for sustainable agriculture and can also discover more about healthy growing options for the home. A broad mix of exhibitors will feature, so visitors to the show can look forward to seeing market leaders as well as trendsetters and pioneers in the industry from Germany, the UK, South Korea, the US, Switzerland, the Netherlands and elsewhere. Among those who have confirmed their participation are Hoogendoorn, a global innovator in automated horticulture and Bosman van Zaal, a point of contact for plant production systems in the food, floriculture and pharmaceutical sectors, Agrilution, a system provider for vertical farming in the home and many others. As a new place for the industry to convene, VertiFarm's comprehensive exhibitor area is the perfect starting point for maintaining existing business relationships and establishing new ones.

start up a company and use the tools of business to promote a better world. The memoir is an inspiring account of the transformative power of purpose-driven entrepreneurship. Born into a Jewish family directly impacted by the Holocaust, Lisa D. Foster was an introverted youth, disinterested in school and lacked direction and purpose. Equipped with the love of reading, she was able to throw off others' low expectations to become a high school English teacher, eventually leaving behind her career to become a pioneer in the fight against single-use plastic. In 2005, Foster founded 1 Bag at a Time, Inc., a first-to-market reusable grocery bag company. Over a period of 12 years, that story transformed Foster into the Bag Lady, an ecoentrepreneur on a mission to save the world one reusable bag at a time. She sold a quarter of a million reusable bags her first year, 2 million her second year, and 8 million her third year. Each reusable bag has the potential to replace a thousand single-use bags, collectively eliminating billions of plastic bags. PHOTO: Bag Lady book/Amazon

PHOTOS: Shironosov / iStock

SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NAB I L I T Y T ODAY

Envirobits

Scientists Call for Cap on Plastic Production

N INTERNATIONAL GROUP of experts says the production of new plastics should be capped to solve the plastic pollution problem. Capping production of new plastics can help cut their release to the environment, and will bring other benefits, including boosting the value of recycled plastics and helping tackle climate change. After the United Nations' historic decision to adopt a global treaty to end plastic pollution earlier this year, governmental negotiations on the agreement began May 30. These will foster intense debates on what kind of measures will be needed to end the pollution of the air, soils, rivers and oceans with plastic debris and microplastics. In a letter to the journal Science, an international group of scientists and experts now argue for tackling the issue right at the source, by regulating, capping, and, in the long-term, phasing out the production of new plastics. Phasing out the production of new plastics from fresh feedstocks should be part of a systemic solution to end plastic pollution, the experts from Canada, Germany, India, Norway,

California Sets Ambitious Offshore Wind Development Targets for 2030

PHOTO: Roman Striga/Shutterstock

Sweden, Turkey, the UK and the U.S. argue. This approach is supported by the best science available today and in line with what political and legal experts proposed in Science last year. Along with measures to address the consumption and demand side of the problem — such as taxes — a comprehensive approach must also cover the supply side, meaning the actual amount of plastics produced and put on the market. Gradually cutting the production of new plastics will come with many societal, environmental and economic benefits, the scientists say.

CALIFORNIA’S ENERGY REGULATOR, the California Energy Commission, has set the ambitious goal of powering about 3 million average homes in the state with offshore wind by 2030. The offshore wind targets are part of a larger push to make the state’s electricity 100% renewable by 2045. “The powerful winds off the Pacific coast are one of California’s largest untapped sources of renewable energy,” said Laura Deehan, state director of Environment California Research and Policy Center, in a statement. Officials set the target after legislation passed that tasked the agency with creating a plan for offshore wind development by 2023. The offshore power, which will add 3 gigawatts of power to California’s grid, will be sourced from the Morro Bay Wind Energy Area — a 399-square mile zone off California’s central coast. The area was identified last year by the federal Bureau of Ocean Energy Management, and

PHOTO: Lucky-photographer/Shutterstock

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the Humboldt Wind Energy Area, located off the northern coast.

Envirobits

PHOTO: Roman Piyaset/Shutterstock

Water Scarcity Predicted to Worsen in More Than 80% of Croplands Globally This Century

GRICULTURAL WATER SCARCITY is expected to increase in more than 80% of the world's croplands by 2050, according to a new study in the AGU journal Earth's Futures. In the last 100 years, the demand for water worldwide has grown twice as fast as the human population. Water scarcity is already an issue on every continent with agriculture, presenting a major threat to food security. The new study examined current and future water requirements for global agriculture and predicted whether the water levels available, either from rainwater or irrigation, will be sufficient to meet those needs under climate change. To do so, the researchers developed a new index to measure and

predict water scarcity in agriculture's two major sources: soil water that comes from rain, called green water, and irrigation from rivers, lakes and groundwater, called blue water. It's the first study to apply this comprehensive index worldwide and predict global blue and green water scarcity as a result of climate change. The researchers found that under climate change, global agricultural water scarcity will worsen in up to 84% of croplands, with a loss of water supplies driving scarcity in about 60% of those croplands. The new index could help countries to assess the threat and causes of agricultural water scarcity and develop strategies to reduce the impact of future droughts.

SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NABI L I T Y T ODAY

Envirobits

Sustainability-Focused Bonds Booming in Europe

ALES OF GREEN, Social and Sustainability (GSS) bonds in Europe could make up half of all bonds issued in the region by 2026. A report by PwC Luxembourg suggests GSS bonds could total 1.6 trillion euros (€1.6 trillion) in the next

few years. Investors at every level are becoming more concerned about climate change, and regulatory requirements are making the bonds an attractive option. "Sustainability — and particularly environmental — considerations have moved from being a nice-to-have option to becoming crucial...reflecting new regulatory requirements and changing societal expectations — particularly in Europe," PwC said. According to the study, European GSS bond issuance will reach €1.4 trillion in 2026 under its baseline assumption and €1.6 trillion in a high-growth scenario, up from almost €500 billion in 2021.

PHOTO: Marcell Viragh / Unsplash

Stanford to Launch New School Focusing on Climate Change A VENTURE CAPITALIST has gifted Stanford University with $1.1 billion to launch a new school focused on climate change and sustainability. According to the New York Times, John Doerr and his wife’s pledge is the largest in the history to start a new school. The school will focus on eight academic fields including climate change, sustainable cities, energy technology and human society and behavior, and will have interdisciplinary institutes to bridge those fields. The Stanford John Doerr School of Sustainability will be the first new school at the university in 70 years. "The Stanford Doerr School of Sustainability will not only harness the intellectual horsepower of our students, faculty, and staff across our campus, but also partner with external organizations around the world to co-develop innovative solutions and identify new PHOTO: Uladzik Kryhin/Shutterstock

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insights through research and education," inaugural Dean Arun Majumdar said in a news release.

Help Support The Animals at

The World’s Largest Carnivore Sanctuary

WildAnimalSanctuary.org

Envirobits

Hydrologic Pro is Taking Reverse Osmosis Technology to the Next Level IT IS IMPERATIVE we conserve as much fresh water as possible. Hydrologic Systems pioneered the “reverse-ratio” technology that saves 75% of the drain water that comparable reverse osmosis (RO) systems waste. The company has also designed the first HVAC reclamation system, ARCS, that scales from small grower to industrial grow operation. Hydrologic PRO pioneered the “reverseratio” technology that saves 75% of the drain water that comparable RO systems waste. The company has taken everythingit has learned over the past 15 years and launched a complete line of professional, PHOTO: / iStock PHOTO:Milos-Muller IrinaK/Shutterstock

commercial water purification technologies along with its flagship product, the HyperLogic PRO system. Visit hyper-logic.

SpaceX Adds 1.7 Acres to Its Texas Solar Farm

PACEX IS EXPANDING the solar farm at its south Texas facility. SpaceX has become the largest private space company in the world, and as such, it facilities need more and more power to function. Elon Musk’s dedication to sustainability is at the forefront of the decision to expand the solar farm powering the Starbase in Boca Chica, Texas. The increase of 1.7 acres brings the total space of the on-site solar farm to 7.1 acres. SpaceX is using panels made by Chinese manufacturers Trina Solar at the launch facility rather than photovoltaics produced by Tesla. However, it’s using Tesla Power Packs, the utility-scale battery storage systems built by Tesla. The expansion would add 750 kilowatts of power for a total of 1.6 MWs of energy, and an additional battery system enabling up to 8 MW-hours of storage, according to documents obtained by CNBC from the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service.

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com for more info.

Columnist: Rob Weinberg

REDUCE. REUSE. RECYCLE. The oft-repeated mantra today resembles white noise. You’ve probably noticed proclaiming “Buy this, it’s recycled,” doesn’t significantly move your sales needle anymore. Appealing to nobility has stopped being a high-impact solution. Because despite widespread recognition of recycling’s importance, products just being recycled isn’t enough to make the sale. Your offe rings must also be innovative, competitively priced, deliver added value, and be marketed well. So how does recycling provide a marketing edge? Address every customer’s primary concern: what’s in it for me?

about how you’re minimizing pollution and impacting climate change, so be detailed about how you’re making the world a better place to live in. Talk about: • Lowering your carbon footprint • Improving distribution methods • Use of renewable energy sources A carbon calculator on your website demonstrates the environmental benefits you provide. Show your sources of raw materials. Create visual maps of your products’ lifecycles. Cause marketing shows your commitment, since you’re donating some of your profits to bettering the planet. Teaming with conservation groups like the World Wildlife Fund can be VERY effective. Or, sponsor pollution cleanup campaigns to increase a customer’s trust in your business. Such efforts demonstrate commitment, while generating immediately apparent results. Furthermore, highlighting recycled products you’ve manufactured increases your credibility over greenwashers, who talk a good story but deliver few results. PRO TIP: Compostable packaging can improve sales by 64%!

TODAY’S MARKETPLACE

RE-EXAMINE YOUR PLANS

China’s 2018 global ban on importing recyclables created a backlog of recyclable goods. Landfills backing up have made residents more active environmentally, and legislators continue enacting stricter recycling laws to reduce waste — yet the EPA reports Americans only divert 35% of waste. We’re overconsuming, and whoever solves that problem stands to benefit greatly.

With new opportunities barreling down the road, re-examine your product line. Assess your customers (demographics, politics, hobbies, etc.) to find a fit. Got wealthy customers who’re interested in technology? Sell or service Ford’s luxury emission-free cars. Got customers who’re more budget-conscious? Sell container-free cleaning products. Know your objectives and your customers’ profile, and the marketing plan will practically write itself. Finally, your business plan should incorporate transparency, efficiency, green certification and eco-friendly strategic alliances. Such trends are guaranteed to be key to any company’s success over the next decade.

REACHING CONSUMERS

Meanwhile, the eco-consumer movement has increased demand for sustainable products. More businesses are responding, shifting from virgin materials to recycled. Sixty-two percent of millennial and Gen Z consumers are likely to purchase sustainable goods over environmentally degrading versions. Seventy-three percent of Generation Z will pay a premium for eco-conscious products. To sell their products, firms are changing their message from “Where’s this go?” to “What’s this make?” Consumers, impressed by the results of recycling, are encouraged to buy more AND recycle more. Assuming this trend continues, by 2032 retailers and manufacturers will be forced to eliminate pollution-producing practices merely to remain competitive in the marketplace. BETTER MESSAGING

Like “Reduce. Reuse. Recycle.,” “Sustainable” is now less impactful due to overuse. Educated consumers want specifics

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

Reach Rob Weinberg at www.marketbuilding.com

ILLUSTRATION: pch.vector/Freepik

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Sustainability How to Meet Biden’s 2030 Climate Goals and Cut Emissions — With Today’s Technology The Conversation BY JOHN REILLY, MIT

NPRECEDENTED FOREST fires in the drought-stricken western United States. Tropical storms and rising seas threatening the Gulf and Atlantic coasts. Sizzling heat across large swaths of the country. As climate change unfolds before our eyes, what can the U.S. do to sharply and rapidly reduce its share of the greenhouse gas emissions that are causing it? The Biden administration has committed to reduce those emissions 50% by 2030 below 2005 levels. That’s a critical first step of a global energy transition that must achieve net-zero emissions by midcentury to limit warming to 1.5 degrees Celsius (2.7 F) and thereby avert the worst impacts of climate change. Twenty years ago, I would have regarded the U.S. 2030 pledge as crazy talk. But a new study in the journal Science that I co-authored, which compares results from six independent analyses conducted by academic, industry and nongovernmental organization researchers, lays out a road map to the 50% target that’s both doable and affordable.

SO, WHAT’S CHANGED SINCE THE EARLY 2000S?

Back then it seemed that without major policy measures, U.S. greenhouse gas emissions would continue to rise indefinitely. However, inexpensive natural gas and falling costs of solar and wind power, combined with some modest state and federal renewable energy programs, resulted in a more than 20% reduction in annual emissions between 2005 and 2020.

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With that reduction under our belts, reaching the 2030 target will require a further reduction of about 37% from current levels. That puts the target closer, but it’s still a bigger drop in 10 years than the U.S. achieved over the past 15 years. Our study shows that by exploiting declining costs of zero- and low-carbon energy sources in a more aggressive and focused way, the U.S. can meet its target within eight years — all while substantially reducing its dependence on fossil fuels, including high-priced gasoline, and cutting back the air pollution, climate and health impacts resulting from their combustion. A NEW ROAD MAP FOR THE US ENERGY TRANSITION

While there are differences among the six analyses in our study, all find that most of the needed emissions reductions — about 70% to 90% — can come from the electric power and transportation sectors. These can be achieved through a further transition to solar and wind power as costs for those technologies continue to drop. Solar and wind can’t do it all; we found that natural gas — some of it accompanied by technology that captures the carbon emissions released during its combustion — and nuclear power and hydropower can play supporting roles. Much of the needed emissions reductions – about 10% to 25% — can be achieved through a rapid transition to electric light-duty vehicles along with additional reductions from freight transportation. Our study shows that electric vehicles, which accounted for about 4% of new car sales in the U.S. in 2021, would need to rise to between 34% and 100% of sales by 2030 to meet that target. That’s a huge jump. But it now appears that battery costs have fallen enough to allow production of EVs at a cost equivalent to that of conventional vehicles. Moreover, EVs are typically cheaper to operate and maintain, further reducing total ownership costs. While our study finds that most of the needed emission reductions can come from electric power and transportation, other sectors of the economy — including industry, agriculture and buildings — must also shift to low- and zero-carbon energy sources to meet the 2030 goal. The key challenges for these sectors include developing technology to eliminate emissions from energy-intensive processes, such as chemical, iron

Sustainability

PHOTO: Kees Streefkerk /Unsplash

and steel production, and retrofitting existing homes and businesses with electric heat pumps in a timely manner. That’s a lot to accomplish in just eight years. It will require an unprecedented buildout of electric power production and transmission capacity, a rapid ramp-up of electric vehicle production and sales, and a nationwide deployment of EV recharging stations. CLIMATE AND HEALTH BENEFITS

At the same time, by helping to avoid the worst effects of climate change, implementing this road map would reduce the national cost of damage from climate change while encouraging innovation. And significantly reducing air pollution resulting from fossil fuel combustion would also reduce related health costs. For example, the smog produced by fossil fuel combustion exacerbates asthma and related respiratory diseases, leading to premature deaths. Some of the six analyses we reviewed found that the reduction in premature deaths — which equate to lost productivity and additional health costs – from reduced fine particulates in the air was by itself enough to offset the cost of implementing the U.S. energy transition road map described in the study.

to reach the U.S. 2030 climate target, action must be taken immediately and sustained throughout the decade to succeed. Many states have already made strong commitments and implemented policies to achieve them, but a coordinated national strategy is needed. The six analyses we reviewed assume different combinations of strategies, including tax incentives, subsidies, regulations and carbon pricing. Each approach has its pluses and minuses, but any successful policy must focus on affordable and equitable solutions and recognize that one size does not fit all. For example, transportation solutions in rural areas will likely differ from those appropriate in dense urban areas, and new construction may sometimes be more cost-effective than retrofitting older buildings. The Biden administration’s proposed way forward, the Build Back Better plan targeting funding to help communities build resilience to the impacts of climate change and expand clean energy, is stalled in Congress. Meanwhile, the clock is ticking.

The Biden administration has committed to cut emissions 50% of 2005 levels by 2030. The pledge comes at a time when the growth of hydropower plants is slowing significantly.

JOHN REILLY is the Co-Director Emeritus of the MIT Joint Program on the Science and Policy of Global Change, Senior Lecturer Emeritus at the MIT Sloan School of Management,

POLICY OPTIONS

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).

Given the scale and pace of the transformations needed

SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NABI L I T Y T ODAY

Sustainability

Sustainable Clothing for Greater Peace of Mind HeadPeace Founder Lindsay Theken Shares Her Journey to Creating an Ethical Clothing Brand BY ARON VAUGHAN PHOTOS COURTESY OF HEADPEACE

T SUSTAINABILITY TODAY, we love brands like HeadPeace. This Colorado-based headwear company hits all the categories we feel are important for businesses to embody. Headpeace’s philosophy is one of inclusion, innovation, entrepreneurship, and, of course, sustainability. Founded in 2016 by Lindsay Theken, the company’s mission was clearly laid out from the start: to provide quality, stylish headwear that is ethically made — helping to make the world a better place, one piece at a time.

HeadPeace was founded in 2016 with inclusion, innovation, entrepreneurship and sustainability as its central tenets.

Headpeace products are manufactured by Purnaa, a Colorado-based company fighting human-trafficking in Nepal and giving women opportunities for employment, career, growth and college scholarships.

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HeadPeace products include neck gaiters (which saw a massive boost in sales during the last two years of the COVID pandemic), headbands, tie bands and lightweight hats. HeadPeace bands are multipurpose, which makes them perfect for athletes, yoga sessioners, busy parents who want to hide their messy hair before stepping out in the morning, and everyone in between. What sets HeadPeace apart from its competitors is the innovative design thought up by its founder. Brands created to provide solutions for the entrepreneurs who created them are often the most successful. Theken is no exception, as she came up with the idea for HeadPeace because current headbands on the market fit too tightly, triggering migraines. To alleviate her migraines and have a better-fitting headband than was currently available, she would have to fill the gap in the market herself. A short time later, HeadPeace was born. By combining design elements from a few of her

favorite headbands, Theken was able to create the perfect one for her, made with lightweight rayon and spandex. The combination of the fabrics and trifold design allows the wearer to adjust the band for more or less coverage and a secure fit. Once the concept was ready, Theken had to find an ethical manufacturer — something that is not as easy as it sounds. “After researching how I would find a manufacturer, I realized most of these textile companies were located in China,” Theken said. “This was a little discouraging to me. I really had no idea how to find out how their employees were treated or the conditions in which they worked. While I am sure most of these factories were reputable, the lack of transparency just didn't sit well with me.” Whether it was providence or merely a coincidence, Theken met her manufacturing partner at one of the most crucial junctures in the company’s growth. "I was at my daughter's gymnastics class and saw a lady who I'd never seen before. I just started talking to this nice lady and she tells me that she lives in Nepal and owns a textile manufacturing company that helps women coming out of slavery and trafficking situations get back on their feet," said Theken.

The woman Theken met on that fateful day is Katrina Bryant, owner of Purnaa, a Colorado-based company and US Secretary of State Award for Corporate Excellence (ACE) winner for the 2021 Outstanding Small to Medium Enterprise in the category of Economic Inclusion. “The biggest piece of HeadPeace is the ethical manufacturing,” Theken said. And for up-and-coming entrepreneurs who are just getting started in their vision to make the world a more kind, sustainable place, she added “Don’t give up; be persistent.”

SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NABI L I T Y T ODAY

Sustainability

Automated Machinery Coming to Agriculture BY JANE MARSH

GRICULTURE IS AN ESSENTIAL sector and will be for as long as humans need food. However, like many other manual, labor-intensive industries, it’s struggling with an ongoing worker shortage. Autonomous machinery can help. Many agricultural workers are nearing retirement, with an average age of 59.4 among principal farm operators. Farmers under 35 represent just 9% of the workforce, leaving few people to fill the current generation’s shoes. As human workers become increasingly difficult to attract and retain, farms are turning to machines. Here’s a look at some of the autonomous machinery helping farmers mitigate this labor shortage. DRIVERLESS TRACTORS

Tractors are an essential piece of farm equipment, making them a natural candidate for automation. Automated versions of these machines work much like driverless cars but are more viable than self-driving vehicles on public roads. Relatively easy, repetitive routes and no other traffic make it easy to implement self-guiding technologies. Earlier this year, John Deere unveiled a fully autonomous tractor line, set to release later in 2022. These tools use six cameras and machine vision to navigate, with real-time data sharing letting farmers monitor and control them remotely. In addition to navigating autonomously, robotic tractors can till, plant seeds, spray products and harvest without human intervention. OTHER AUTONOMOUS VEHICLES

Tractors are far from the only farm vehicles with

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At top is a Tertill Weeding Robot. Above is a John Deere autonomous tractor.

autonomous upgrades today. Self-guided drones can fly over fields to analyze crop health or soil conditions, helping farmers make more informed decisions. Automated moving sprayers pass through the land and spray individual crops as needed, reducing labor while minimizing chemical use. Other options take a less specialized, more versatile approach. Skid steers, which are compatible with a massive range of attachments, are an ideal use case for automation. Farmers can equip self-driving skid steers with various tool sets depending on the current situation, serving multiple needs with a single machine. Highly specialized autonomous equipment is excellent for precision agriculture but not always an option for smaller farmers. Many farms operate on slim profit margins, making more versatile choices more appealing. HARVESTING MACHINES

Harvesting crops can be a delicate operation, making it unsuitable for automation for many years. Despite this challenge, recent advances have made this option entirely viable, helping streamline inefficient processes on farms. For example, automated combines can now use sensors to adjust rotor speeds, balancing speed with AUTONOMOUS TRACTOR PHOTO: John Deere Photo

PHOTO: Scharfsinn86 / iStock

gentleness in real-time. Robotic solutions can now help harvest even the most sensitive of produce. These machines use vacuum suction or cushioned, low-pressure grabbers to pluck fruits from trees and vines without bruising them. Some options also include sensors to detect which vegetables are ready for harvesting and which need more time. WEEDING ROBOTS

Weeding is another historically slow process that autonomous machinery can now accelerate. Traditionally, it takes time because workers have to look through fields to find weeds, then manually pluck or poison them, being careful not to damage crops. This type of repetitive, sensitive work is ideal for automation, which can often accomplish it faster. Today’s farm robots feature a broad range of different

weeding technologies. Some use brushes and tools to suffocate or pull out weeds, while others apply specialized herbicides and others zap unwanted growth with lasers. Farmers can decide which option works best for their needs, and choices will only grow as the market matures. THE FUTURE OF AGRICULTURE IS AUTOMATED

Agriculture has a reputation for being old-fashioned and heavily manual. Despite its deep historical roots and this reputation, farming today is becoming a cutting-edge, tech-driven industry. As demand rises and worker shortages persist, more farms will implement automation, leading to a robotic future. Autonomous machines are relatively new to farming, but they’ve already seen remarkable growth. As adoption keeps rising, it may not be long before robots can handle virtually every task on the farm.

Once considered a purely manual industry, agriculture is becoming a leader in the use of cutting-edge technology, incorporating self-driving vehicles, AI and drones.

SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NABI L I T Y T ODAY

Sustainability

Urban Greening is the Unlikely Solution to Bee Conservation BY ARON VAUGHAN

EES USED TO GET A BAD RAP. They were known primarily for their ability to sting inattentive picnickers who dared to sit too close to an active hive or frustrated gardeners who swat wildly toward the telltale sound of buzzing close to their ears. And this is how the average human reacted to the affable honeybee. The infinitely ornerier wasp or hornet was — and many times still is — treated with fear and disdain. Of course, the consensus on bees has changed dramatically in recent years. Any entomologist could wax lyrical on the benefits of our pollinating friends, but it has taken the layperson a while to catch up. THE CRUX OF THE FOOD CHAIN

As far as important species go, bees are top of the list. They are critical to our ecosystem and crop production, pollinating 70 of the around 100 crop species that feed 90% of the world. Honeybees are responsible for $30 billion a year in crops. If we were to lose the plants bees pollinate, all the animals that rely on those plants for food would disappear, and so on all the way up the food chain. Before the collapse of the food chain, we would lose the delicious local honey known to be an effective defense against viral and bacterial diseases. LOSING GROUND

We’ve established the fact that a world without bees would be a catastrophe, as we would struggle to sustain a global population of over 7 billion. The stark reality is, however, we are losing bees at an alarming rate. Possible reasons include habitat loss, the crab-like varroa mite that feasts on their blood, climate change and widespread use of pesticides.

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

PHOTO: Oakland Images /Shutterstock

The transformation of vacant lots in urban areas into greenspaces can have a significant positive impact on bee populations.

A COMMUNITY-CENTERED SOLUTION

The good news is we can facilitate bee conservation in our own communities, whether rural or urban. A 2021 Ohio State University study found “urban greening,” the practice of creating community gardens and prairie grasses in the middle of the concrete jungle, can have a significant positive impact on biodiversity, including bee populations. “Even in the middle of the city, bees were using these small patches of habitat,” said Mary Gardiner, professor of entomology at Ohio State and senior author of the paper. “This is one of the first times a paper has demonstrated that native bees responded with a reproductive benefit from the establishment of native plantings within a city.” The study on local bee populations, published in the journal Conservation Biology, indicated the transformation of even just 40 vacant lots in a mediumsized city such as Cleveland, Ohio, can have a significant impact. Of the 17 species identified in the various lots, 64% were bees. Flowering prairies containing native flowering plants saw the highest abundance of bees and wasps, suggesting land in cities dedicated to greenspace can easily host bee communities. “This work has shown that some proportion of the bees and wasp community will respond to larger patches of greenspace being reinstituted in the landscape, even if they are not the natural habitat that was there pre-development,” said Gardiner. “And I think that’s really exciting.”

Sustainability

Big Oil is Giving (a Little) Back to the Gulf States BY ARON VAUGHAN

T’S HARD TO FORGET the environmental impact the BP oil spill had on the Gulf of Mexico in 2010. Oil flowed freely into the Atlantic Ocean for 87 days before the spill was finally capped. The widespread devastation highlighted the fragility of the ecosystem and the impact of human meddling in our natural world. In addition to large-scale disasters like the BP oil spill, there has been a slow burn affecting the natural balance of once-thriving reefs and coastal areas around the gulf and all over the globe. Over-fishing and a steady stream of ocean pollution have decimated said reefs and the marine life that call them home.

GULF OF MEXICO ENERGY SECURITY ACT

Oil companies have benefited from offshore drilling for decades, but the surrounding environment has not profited from private companies’ actions until recently. In 2006, the Gulf of Mexico Energy Security Act (GOMESA) provided a revenue-sharing model for oiland gas-producing gulf states to receive a portion of the revenue generated from offshore oil and gas leasing in the Gulf of Mexico. The Act also directs a portion of revenue to the Land and Water Conservation Fund (LWCF). According to the Energy Information Administration, the region produces approximately 1.8 million barrels per day. At today’s rate of $119.76 per barrel of crude oil, that equates to about $215 million per day sold. As a whole, the United States uses an average of 19.78 million barrels per day. In May, the Department of the Interior’s Office of Natural Resources Revenue announced the distribution of over $252 million in fiscal year 2021 energy revenues to the four offshore Gulf oil and gas-producing states — Alabama, Louisiana, Mississippi and Texas — and their coastal political subdivisions (CPS), such as counties and parishes.

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

PHOTO: Fitria Ramli/Shutterstock

The skyline of the commercial center of Doha, the capital of the Arabian Gulf state Qatar

The funds, disbursed annually based on offshore oil and gas revenue, can be used to support coastal conservation and restoration projects, hurricane protection programs, onshore infrastructure projects and activities to implement marine and coastal resilience management plans. The 2021 allocation represents the second-largest disbursement since the Interior first began disbursing GOMESA revenues to states in 2009. Since GOMESA’s passage, the Interior Department has disbursed approximately $1.26 billion to the coastal states and their CPS. GIVE AND TAKE

While oil-producing states are continuing to rake in substantial profits as they fuel the U.S’ rising energy needs, a portion of those profits are being paid forward in a way that benefits not just the wildlife of coastal regions, but also residents of the areas. Hurricanes have become more deadly over time as sea walls erode and water levels rise. Onshore infrastructure can help to mitigate the effects of natural disasters and research geared toward more sustainable fishing practices benefits communities in tangible ways. Nature gives us everything we need to sustain ourselves, and common-sense practices and measures like GOMESA will ensure we can continue that cycle responsibly for this and future generations.

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F E AT U R E

HOW IS AI CHANGING THE ENVIRONMENT FOR THE BETTER? BY EMILY NEWTON

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

F E AT U R E

IGNIFICANT INVESTMENTS and research developments in artificial intelligence (AI) have made the technology a powerful asset in many industries. AI isn’t a new technology, but businesses and consumers feel its impact and witness it seep into everyday life. It’s turning into a ubiquitous technology, whether it’s a digital voice assistant like Amazon’s Alexa, a device like the iPhone or AI software for businesses. AI is becoming more advanced and autonomous, and it’s also broader in its use and impact. More use cases for AI are emerging, and if implemented responsibly, it can greatly benefit society. It’s likely to play a role in tackling issues like climate change — but how? Here’s how AI is expected to impact the environment and usher in positive changes for a more sustainable future. ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS IN 2022

It’s critical to understand the breadth of environmental problems right now. Pressing issues like climate change, air, water and land pollution, deforestation, overpopulation, loss of biodiversity and increases in natural disasters are felt in almost every country worldwide. Unfortunately, many of these concerns are a result of increased human activity. According to the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), humans have contributed to climate change in two significant ways: increased greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and reflectivity or absorbed energy from the sun. Human activities have released significant amounts of carbon dioxide into the atmosphere since the Industrial Revolution, ultimately changing the Earth’s climate.

PHOTO: Gorodenkoff/Shutterstock

SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NABI L I T Y T ODAY

5 POSITIVE AI ENVIRONMENTAL APPLICATIONS VARIOUS AI APPLICATIONS could potentially solve some of these significant environmental issues. However, widespread adoption and forming better regulatory bodies must be considered if governments plan on using these applications. Here are some of the ways AI can be applied to change the environment for the better.

Improved Climate Change Research

Reliable weather forecasting can lead to other positive

Scientists and climate researchers are already

environmental impacts. For example, renewable energy

applying AI to their work. For example, consider

companies can better monitor their plants, which improves

the Carbon Tracker Initiative, which analyzes satellite

renewable energy production. They can reduce carbon

imagery over power plants to monitor emission levels. This

emissions for a better environment as a result.

results in more accurate emission figures, therefore making research more reliable. Companies and climate change experts can use AI-driven technology to gather data and extract insights for better

Smart Agriculture AI is already transforming the agriculture industry. Modern farmers can improve crop

decision-making. The first step in understanding how to

production processes with AI-powered technology, such as

create solutions is to conduct research. AI is a valuable tool

harvesting robots or drones.

because it speeds up the climate change research necessary to take remedial action.

Farmers can gather more information about their fields, determine how to care for their crops, decide which fertilizers to use and use other critical data to improve

Development of Autonomous Vehicles (AVs)

operations. They are using digital agriculture in Argentina,

Public transportation is a major contributor to

and AI farms already exist in China.

GHG emissions. One climate change response

strategy is improving transit infrastructure to reduce emissions and become more resilient. Agencies are looking to adopt newer technologies to achieve these GHG reductions, and AI is no exception. AI is the core technology used in autonomous vehicles

Reduced Ocean Pollution Ocean pollution is another major environmental concern many countries are grappling with. Two

companies, Razer and ClearBot, created a partnership to advance AI and robotics for ocean pollution reduction,

(AVs). Route and traffic optimization, autonomous

which benefits nearby marine life and the overall

ridesharing, and eco-friendly driving algorithms are ways

environment.

AI will help reduce GHG emissions. AVs will likely become

Essentially, ClearBot designs robots that use AI-driven

more affordable and widely adopted. The ultimate goal

computer vision (CV) to locate and identify marine waste.

would be to establish electric AV fleets to reduce GHG

They retrieve and dispose of it properly. In another case,

emissions significantly.

nonprofit organization The Ocean Cleanup, has leveraged AI technology to determine how much and what kind of

More Reliable Weather Forecasting IBM uses AI to improve its weather forecasting process. IBM’s The Weather Company was

trash accumulates in ocean garbage patches. This is not an exhaustive list but illustrates how AI can help change the environment for the better. It will be interesting to

determined to be the most accurate weather forecasting

see what other use cases emerge and if governments leverage

provider globally in 2021.

AI for climate change mitigation efforts. PHOTO: Suwin/Shutterstock

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

F E AT U R E

PHOTO: Zapp2Photo/Shutterstock

Natural processes also contribute to climate change, but people’s contributions cannot be ignored. According to a 2020 Pew Research Center survey, most surveyed publics believe their governments are not doing enough to address the negative impacts of climate change. Can AI change how countries respond to the crisis and other environmental concerns?

creation and building a more sustainable environment can all be accomplished with AI technology. However, AI cannot solve all the current environmental problems in the world. It is highly advanced and always evolving, but an issue as significant as climate change needs to be addressed with multiple solutions and strategies.

IS AI THE KEY TO A BETTER ENVIRONMENT?

USING AI TO ADDRESS ENVIRONMENTAL CONCERNS

A recent PwC report details how AI could help humanity reach a more sustainable future. One significant finding in the report suggests AI used in environmental applications could boost global GDP by 3.1%-4.4% while simultaneously lowering GHG emissions by 1.5%-4% by 2030. The report also found AI environmental applications could create between 18.4 and 38.2 million jobs worldwide. Using AI for environmental applications seems like a no-brainer. Boosting the global GDP, driving job

Taking care of the planet we call home needs to be a priority. However, countries worldwide need to step up and address the problem head-on. Using new and emerging technologies will play a critical role in combating climate change. AI already is, and will continue to be. a valuable technology that many industries will benefit from. Applying AI-powered solutions to better the environment must be considered if the goal is to make the future more sustainable.

AI is becoming more advanced and autonomous. It’s broader use and impact is now being extended to fighting climate change.

SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NABI L I T Y T ODAY

COVER STORY

SMART CITY INITIATIVES ARE CREATING THE FRAMEWORK FOR A MORE SUSTAINABLE WORLD

BY ARON VAUGHAN PHOTO: 24Novembers/Shutterstock

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

COVER STORY

PHOTO: leungchopan/Shutterstock

T’S A MONDAY MORNING, and Murphy’s Law is in full-effect. The alarm was set an hour later than intended and the spouse, child and dog have penetrated your inner calm like an invading army breaching castle walls. All before 8 am. You approach the heavy oak front door and swing it wide with reckless abandon, hoping to gain precious seconds back — a ploy that increases the likelihood of making it to the office on-time by 0.1%. But something miraculous happens when the threshold to the world is crossed: the spring air is crisp and clean. Birds sing and chirp and flutter from one hibiscus tree to the next. The sound of traffic is characterized by a gentle hum as vehicles come your way and now speed away in a most organized fashion. Cyclists almost outnumber cars as the morning rush reaches its daily crescendo. You exhale and begin your 7-block trek to work. This idyllic scene may seem far-fetched or unattainable, but the transformation of urban areas to

smart, regenerative, sustainable cities has already begun. Everything is smart nowadays. It’s the new paradigm for our phones, watches and even our homes, and now, our cities are following suit. HOW DO WE TURN ESTABLISHED CITIES INTO SOMETHING SMARTER?

The first step toward creating a smart city is utilizing the digital intelligence we hold in our hands (sometimes obsessively) throughout the day. Smartphones have the power to direct real-time data to a technology base. Dedicated applications can then analyze the information to provide alerts on crime, traffic and air quality. Technologies used for industrial applications can also be analyzed and added to the growing database. AI analytics are utilized in almost every piece of machinery as the technology becomes less expensive and more widely available. For example, recycling plants are beginning to use AI to understand how to efficiently dispose of and repurpose waste. SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NABI L I T Y T ODAY

COVER STORY

PHOTO: Zapp2Photo/Shutterstock

According to a report from McGinsky Global Institute (MGI), smart solutions can improve multiple aspects of quality of life in cities including cost of living, jobs, connectedness, environment and health and safety. Technologies such as real-time crime mapping allow cities to deploy scarce resources to the most needed areas. Deploying a range of applications to their maximum effect could potentially reduce fatalities from homicide, road traffic and fires by 8-10%. In a highcrime city with a population of five million, this could mean saving up to 300 lives each year. In addition, the intangible benefit of increased peace of mind will manifest in increased productivity and a greater sense of community. TARGETING THE TRAFFIC CRISIS

If you live and work in a big city, you know the frustration of the daily commute. One of the goals of smart cities is to reduce traffic by creating a more intelligent traffic system. 34

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

Smart-mobility applications have the potential to cut commuting times by 15-20% on average, according to MGI. Digital signage and mobile apps can deliver real-time information about delays, allowing commuters to adjust their routes while in transit. Installing IoT sensors on existing infrastructure will alert crews to problems before they result in major delays. Intelligent syncing of traffic signals will significantly reduce average commute times for people in cities where cars or buses are the primary method of transportation. Real-time navigation is already helping drivers avoid on-route accidents and smartparking apps are being implemented throughout the U.S. right now. Reduced commute time and a more efficient traffic system will also reduce the carbon footprint of big cities. It may not seem like a consequential change, but scaled to every major city, these measures could be a critical factor in turning the tide in the ongoing climate battle.

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COVER STORY

sources of pollution and regulating traffic and construction accordingly. The key to an effective smart city is the sharing-of real time data. The more information available for analysis, the more the public can be informed on pollutants and the impact of their lifestyles. To fuse two maxims: knowledge is power, great knowledge is great power; and with great power comes responsibility. Ultimately, well-informed citizens are more likely to take responsibility for the world around them. DATA COLLECTION’S ROLE IN PREVENTING DISEASES BY REGION

The sustainable city movement is not just beneficial for the rapidly declining ecosystems and diverse flora and fauna within; cleaner air, water and diversity of species within urban areas increase quality of life, and ultimately, life expectancy. As technology in healthcare marches on, the ability to apply it to cities grows. The recent MGI report found disabilityadjusted life years (DALYs) — the primary PHOTO: Space-kraft/Shutterstock metric used by the World Health Organization to convey the global disease burden — can be reduced by 8–15% by smart city initiatives. Apps that send vital information from patients to SMARTER CITIES = A CLEANER WORLD doctors can be analyzed to find correlations and Urbanization, industrialization and rising potential causation for diseases that are more prevalent consumption associated with rapid population in certain areas. Governments and health organizations growth are some of the main culprits in the can then take steps to reduce environmental factors degradation of the environment, pollution, food contributing to the diseases. chain collapse and climate change. Advanced technology like AI and the IoT have made our lives more convenient and even facilitated the path to EUROPE INITIATIVES longer, healthier lives. By making cities smarter, we In contrast to more conventional, long-term, holistic can turn the crux of the problem into the epicenter of masterplanning, information communication the solution. technology-induced urban interventions are being tested and produced incrementally in manageable scales, Building-automation systems, dynamic electricity and are often the product of public-private partnerships. pricing and mobility applications could combine to cut While U.S. cities are beginning to implement smart emissions by 10 to 15%, according to MGI. It is a littlecity policies, European cities are at the vanguard of the known fact that water pipe leaks are one of the biggest sustainable city movement. sources of water loss. Sensors and analytics can reduce In 2021, 75% of Europe’s population was localized in those losses by 25%. urban areas, compared to 56% of the population in the Digital tracking of solid waste can reduce unrecycled U.S., according to Statista. Because of the high solid waste by 30 to 130 kilograms per person annually. population density in cities and Europe’s dedication to Recently, Beijing reduced deadly airborne pollutants by sustainable living, EU-funded smart city and roughly 20% in less than a year by closely tracking the 36

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

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COVER STORY

A roof garden with flowers and even honey bees on an office building from the fifties in the center of Rotterdam. PHOTO: R. de Bruijn_Photography/Shutterstock

community lighthouse projects have proliferated over the last decade. Stockholm, Barcelona and Cologne were chosen as “lighthouse cities” to pilot the GrowSmarter project — an initiative created to provide sustainable solutions to urban areas throughout Europe. The project focused on low energy districts, integrated infrastructures and sustainable urban mobility, and included a deep retrofitting approach for buildings from the 60s and 70s. It also introduced vehicles fueled by alternative sources and smart traffic management. “The idea is to create a ready market for these smart solutions to support growth and the transition to a smart, sustainable Europe,” the project website states. “Around one third of Europeans live in buildings from the 1960s and 70s, which are all in need of renovation,” project coordinator Gustaf Landahl, Head of Department for Planning and Environment at the City of Stockholm Environment & Health Administration said in a news item on the Government Europa news portal. “Under GrowSmarter, buildings from the 60s have been refurbished to meet newly built energy standards. If we see this potential, we can start putting in solutions 38

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

to save energy and give people better instruments to control their own use of energy.” Between 2015 and 2019, GrowSmarter received €25 million ($26.4 million) in funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program — the largest EU research program in history with nearly €80 billion of funding. The appropriation shows the level of dedication Europe has to sustainability. According to GrowSmarter’s final report, the participating cities averaged 30-70% in CO2 savings, deployed 72 sustainable vehicles, engaged 15,000 citizens and improved overall quality of life. All aspects of our lives are getting smarter, from the way we eat to the medicine we take and, of course, the tools we use. Now is the time to utilize these tools on the grandest scale — our planet. Cities are inexorably tied to the health of the Earth, as much as we may not want to admit it. But we must embrace this reality into our collective schema in order to facilitate a better way of living. Fortunately, we have the technology, data-backed knowledge and momentum to make the smart city a fixture of counties, states and countries around the globe.

F E AT U R E

National Geographic’s Latest Documentary Takes Viewers Deep Into the Heart of the Amazon Rainforest

THE LAST

TEPUI BY ARON VAUGHAN

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

F E AT U R E

Climber Alex Honnold makes a first ascent up the cliff face of Weiassipu, a tepui in Western Guyana.

PHOTO: National Geographic/Ryan Valasek

XPLORATION and adventure are intrinsic to our DNA. Humans have been obsessed with unlocking the mysteries of the great unknown since the beginning of our shared history. Whether it’s uncovering the secrets of lost civilizations or reaching the farthest edges of our Blue Planet, humans are a species of pioneers. In the last century, our innate penchant for discovery has even seen us launch data gathering equipment into the solar system and beyond. And while we have scoured almost every inch of our planet’s surface, there are still virgin regions that boast diverse micro-ecosystems. Ecologist Bruce Means, Ph.D., has been studying amphibian and reptile biodiversity of the woodlands, swamps, and bogs of the Florida Panhandle and making expeditions into the vast wilderness of northeastern South America for over 40 years. At 80 years old, his latest effort to “bag and tag” previously undiscovered amphibian and reptile species brought him deep into the Amazon rainforest in the heart of Guyana. Means and his expedition team, which included free solo climber Alex Honnold, were tasked with charting the rainforest’s last unexplored tepui — an “island in the sky” teeming with biodiversity. Formed on the bed of a primordial sea 1.7 billion years ago, tepuis can give unprecedented insight into the evolution of all life on Earth. The reason the Weassipu tepui had not yet been explored is fundamentally a logistic one; much of the wildlife exists on a plateau extending from the side of the sky-high archipelago. This is where Honnold and his world-renowned climbing skills come into play. After establishing a base camp at Double Drop Falls deep within the Amazon rainforest, Honnold, fellow professional climbers Federico Pisani and Mark Synnott, and director Dr. Taylor Rees and her production crew hacked through five miles of untouched rainforest to the base of Weiassipu. Means, after traversing the harsh terrain of the Amazon to reach the base camp, set up shop at the site SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NABI L I T Y T ODAY

F E AT U R E

and explored the surrounding area for new species, while the rest of the crew crossed the Rubicon into the dense jungle with the ultimate goal of setting foot upon the primordial paradise that lies on the edge of the quartzite cliff face of Weiassipu. The wall climb was executed deftly and with relative ease — barring the ascent of a particularly difficult section of the wall known as a roof. The epic adventure into the wilderness was not in vain. Means and his colleagues collected what they believe to be five new species, including a new species of Stefania found in the cloud forest below Weiassipu. All are currently being studied to confirm his findings. Other rare species found on the expedition include MacConnell’s Pebble toad, the Roraima tree frog and the Kanaima tree frog. Means has been a conservationist for almost as long as he has been in the field of ecology, and the discovery of these unique animals will also help in the fight to conserve the biodiversity within the Amazon. I had an opportunity to talk with Honnold and Rees about the expedition, the first ascent of Weiassapu’s cliff face and what the discoveries mean for conservation in the region. This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

ABOVE PHOTO: National Geographic/Renan Ozturk INSET PHOTO: National Geographic/Ryan Valasek

I definitely care way more about the whole ecosystem there, after the trip than before. Hopefully, that’s something that people can take from the documentary as well. His passion The climbing team settled into a wall camp at night on the tepui face. Inset, Dr. Means is looking for new species of frogs

for the whole web of life there is pretty incredible. I&T Today: How gnarly was that roof? In the documentary, there was that point where all of it seemed okay, but that seemed a little difficult. AH: I would say it’s difficult for sure. It’s very exciting to be in that kind of position in the middle of nowhere in the jungle, but it’s not like cutting-edge climbing.

Innovation & Tech Today: How did this ascent

We were there to serve the greater expedition, to

compare to others in terms of difficulty?

make it up the wall, to look for species of frogs, to

Alex Honnold: Well, it wasn’t nearly as difficult as

help Bruce get into this place. The climbing was cool,

sometimes, but that wasn’t really the point. The point

but it wasn’t really the most important part. We spent

was to go to this incredible new place, and to

10 days walking to the wall, and then a couple of days

explore a new wall. To give Dr. Means, give Bruce an

climbing the wall. The bulk of our time was spent

opportunity to complete his Elevational Transit.

navigating the jungle and exploring.

Basically, look for species along the way. The difficulty — I would say — it was a challenging climb,

I&T Today: What’s next for you on the agenda? Any

but it wasn’t cutting edge by any means. But it’s

new first descents?

cool, it’s a very nice rock, it’s a good climb, it’s an

AH: I’m mostly focused on fatherhood for a little bit.

incredible location. Really we were there more to

I actually do have another show with Nat Geo

support Bruce, and to facilitate the science.

coming up this summer, that’s an expedition agreement. That is actually the only trip I’m really

I&T Today: As someone who spends a lot of time in

doing this year because of fatherhood. In many ways,

nature, have you always had a passion for ecology,

this upcoming trip is inspired by this trip to Guyana.

biology, and zoology? If not, did you gain a new

Being in the jungle with Bruce, and seeing the

appreciation through this?

opportunities for basic science on the climbing trip,

AH: That’s one of the most interesting things about

made me realize that if I’m going to do other climate

this trip, I’m outdoors a lot, and I would say I love

expeditions like this in the future, I should probably

nature, but I’ve never really loved the jungle. I don’t

have a scientific component to it.

know that much about biology, and Bruce’s passion

Basically, it should try to be slightly more useful

for biology was so infectious that I came out of the

than just climbing. We’re doing something very

trip with a much greater appreciation for the wealth

similar in Greenland this summer with climate

of species in the jungle.

science, and also through National Geographic.

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

F E AT U R E

I&T Today: Taylor, what drew you to the project?

I&T Today: How difficult is it to make this area in

Taylor Rees: That’s a great question. I’ve always

Guyana a protected region? How much did the

loved stories that combine real adventure with

expedition help in protecting the status of the area?

science. Science and ecology can be a subject that

TR: That’s a great question. There’s a lot of different

not everyone is quite as excited about as Bruce, but

ways that conservation happens, whether it’s a

when you really think about it, it’s just like climbing.

UNESCO World Heritage Site or a federally

Science is an exploration to understanding a living

established national park.

environment. To combine this adventure with Alex

What I think we are really inspired to see is that

who we’ve known, and worked with forever, and is a

the Amerindian indigenous communities down there

good friend, and to learn from Bruce just seemed

are organizing. They have what is called COCAs,

like a really cool combination. There’s also a great

Community Organized Conservation Areas. I think

potential for impact, not only just to help people, in

what we’re all learning in this time period, is that

general, become aware of this Galapagos in the sky,

when the people of a region can be really integrated

but to be inspired by Bruce’s curiosity. As Alex said,

into conservation that’s best.

to take that into their own lives, and backyards, and

We had this opportunity to travel through the

be “Earth is amazing.” It’s great to look around.

jungle with 80 Akawaio porters, cooks, and people that are involved in this kind of stuff. Just even the

I&T Today: What kind of gear did you take with you

interexchange of ideas, and learning from them, and

for filming? Is there anything that you took

how they’re approaching this all was amazing. We

specifically for a project like this, where you’re in the

hope the film will inspire and support those

middle of the jungle, that you wouldn’t have on

conservation movements.

other sets? AH: I think the real question is which gear didn’t break.

I&T Today: How’s Bruce doing? How is he feeling

TR: We had a lot of gear. We shot the entire thing on

after the expedition? Both physically, and

Sony, so we were working with Sony’s smaller

emotionally?

Mirrorless Alpha One, a 7S111 camera, as well as

TR: I was just on a PR event with him two seconds

their FX6. The hardest part was that the jungle was

ago, and he is rearing to go back. He was trying to come up with the title of the sequel.

extremely wet, and the lenses were constantly fogging. Everything’s getting moldy, we had lenses that literally grew mold in them. As Alex said, we had a five-person film crew, and we brought a lot of gear.

Federico Pisani makes a first ascent up the cliff face of Weiassipu

I&T Today: Do either of you plan on going back? Is there more to explore? Are there more species to be found? Is there more to do in conservation there? AH: I would say there are definitely more species to

PHOTO: National Geographic/Renan Ozturk

be found. There’s definitely more to be done in conservation. I personally would like to go back to climb on some different objectives. Some of the walls there are quite a bit bigger, steeper, and more impressive than the wall that we climbed in the show. We were there because it hadn’t been climbed before, and because it was part of Bruce’s Elevational Transit. It totally made sense for Bruce’s research, but from a strictly climbing perspective, there are some bigger tepuis in other parts of, mostly Venezuela. Federico Basani, who’s on the trip with us, the two of us have talked a little bit about going back to some of the other more extreme tepuis at some point in the future. It’d be more of a strictly climbing trip. I think there’s incredible opportunity in the whole region for all of the things you described. SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NABI L I T Y T ODAY

F E AT U R E

BRINGING SOUL AND HEALTH TO SUSTAINABILITY

An Interview with Soul Doctoring Author Dr. Gayle Randall BY ROBERT YEHLING

HEN DR. GAYLE RANDALL first set out to write Soul Doctoring: Heal Yourself, Heal the Planet 25 years ago, she envisioned a book focused on selfcare and the many underlying causes of disease. She sought to merge her many years of training from a number of American Indian teachers with her longstanding practice as a medical doctor and integrative medicine pioneer to present a 360-degree view of what causes disease, and how we can recognize our own ailments and how to care for ourselves better. Things have changed. With the planet and climate in a crisis state, endangering everything from our health to the future course of our environment, businesses and nations, she switched gears. She completely overhauled her original manuscript and brought together the core aspects of personal physical and mental health, diet, sustainable living and business, lifestyle and work choices to arrive at a book that has never tackled sustainability, health care, and the future of the planet so directly. In so doing, she began spreading the word through her influential Soul Stories podcast, weekly fireside chats on health, wellness and sustainability on Instagram TV, and a social media platform growing as rapidly as the regenerative farms and next-gen food operations with which she is deeply involved. Our careers often take many turns, and become more purposeful as we gain experience, but few can argue with the uniqueness of a trained gastroenterologist and co-founder of one of the nation’s first integrative medicine centers mixing her work with the Regeneration Generation that is beginning to take sustainability to the next level. Innovation & Tech Today caught up with Dr. Randall on the eve of the May 31 launch of Soul Doctoring (Transformation Media Press) in traditional and online booksellers nationwide.

taking care of ourselves is so directly related to how we care for and treat the planet? Dr. Gayle Randall: As I focused on healing people and addressing my own environmental concerns, I began to notice connections between personal and planetary healing. First of all, when we heal personally, we become clearer and more aware, and begin to turn our attention outward to others and the environment around us. The connections we make through self-healing expand our vision and understanding of how all things are connected. I&T Today: When you think of sustainability, what are the images, ideas or issues that come to mind first for you? Dr. Randall: Sustainability is wonderful; it is all about holding our own, treading consciously on the earth, being mindful in our business practices and use of resources. However, in today’s state, we are rapidly approaching critical boundaries — carbon debt, clean water shortage, reduction in diversity, rapid desertification and loss of resources. We need solutions that not only stop but reverse damage. That leads to regeneration. Regeneration is rebuilding and restoring what we’ve lost to improve the situation. We need to sustain and regenerate our land, air, water and ourselves, and we need to direct our businesses even more so to engage in practices that sustain and regenerate as well. I&T Today: What is your assessment of where we stand with climate change and environment — and what specific new steps should businesses take, beyond simple sustainability measures, to contribute to the solution while also growing their businesses and creating more fulfilling, healthier jobs?

Innovation & Tech Today: You’ve spent the better part of 40

Dr. Randall: Businesses, like individuals, needs to take the

years addressing the direct relationship between taking care

planet and the impact of their actions into consideration in

of ourselves, taking care of the planet and engaging in

every choice they make. It doesn’t matter whether you’re a

sustainable lifestyles and business practices in your

tech company, a clothing company or a manufacturer. If we

profession as a doctor — and also in your works, talks and

can all adopt this mindset, it would improve the planet and

podcasts. Could you break down this dynamic, and why

attitude of those implementing such interventions, and

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

F E AT U R E

activate more businesses to do the same. For instance, in the

entirely turned away from past poor environmental/

clothing industry, a long-time practitioner of wasteful

unsustainable practices with bold and ambitious strides to

behavior, pressure has been put on the ‘fast-fashion’

enhance a sustainable future — Nestle with its “Generation

companies to take into account the way they manufacture and

Regeneration” programs, Walmart with the world’s largest

distribute, where they manufacture, how much transportation

usage of solar panels among businesses, and so on. What do

— and gas — they need to distribute, how to better use water

you feel these and others need to do next to drill deeper and

resources, working with local workers, etc. This is causing

make sustainability a part of their work culture? And how they

others to follow suit.

source materials and buy products? Dr. Randall: I think they need to keep their eyes on the ball and

I&T Today: If you were a business owner in technology or an

increase their efforts. Look at just the last couple of years, the

industry outside your own, how would you educate or inform

choices they’ve made to keep the notion of regeneration close

employees on self-responsible steps they can take, in their

in their choices and actions. That’s keeping the eye on the ball.

daily jobs, to heal the planet? And create a healthier, more

Moving forward into the future, they can take further account

sustainable work experience for themselves?

into not only what they have done, but what they still have yet

Dr. Randall: I would set up systems where employees get

to do. Things like sourcing materials and employment locally,

rewarded for following suggested actions that are regenerative:

wasting less, buying from like-minded suppliers and

going more towards digital vs. paper communication and data

manufacturers, and always to keep repurposing in mind when

storage and transfer; take into account the “miles” on products

designing new products.

or consumables and determine the potential for repurposing them before choosing them, things like that. Employees and

I&T Today: Besides the book, you’ve built out quite a social

managers could be rewarded with recognition, promotion,

platform the past few years, between your YouTube Channel,

bonuses or time off for coming up with new ways to apply

the Soul Stories podcast (now over 5K downloads), your

regenerative modalities in the workplace.

weekly IGTV shows and Instagram. What response have you been seeing, and comments from viewers/listeners, to your

I&T Today: In Soul Doctoring: Heal Yourself, Heal the Planet, you

(and your guests’) messaging about sustainability, right living,

really make it a point to share the science behind medicine,

self-care and finding our purposeful role in all of this?

behind diet/nutrition, behind our environmental issues, in a

Dr. Randall: People’s interests are peaking. I started the

candid and deep way — far more than a typical healthcare

podcast because I wanted another forum to hear from people

provider. Can you discuss the vital importance of everyone

who have increased

knowing the “how” of “how this works”, the science, as well as

consciousness on the planet or

the spiritual and practical aspects that you also write about?

created something great that

Dr. Randall: I have had years of experience understanding the

encourages people to learn

whys and hows of things in medicine, from my years

from them. Also, I’ve noticed

practicing many different modalities with many thousands of

more and more people coming

patients. To me, understanding the science makes me more

into the regeneration

interested in the practice, and that’s what I really focused on in

generation, being concerned,

Soul Doctoring: for the reader to understand how disease or

and being willing to do things

unease happens in their life, how their lifestyles, environment

to improve personal and

and attitudes play a part just like chemicals in certain foods or

planetary states of health,

the environment, but also the good chemicals. Take

whether in their homes, places

polyphenols, for example, chemicals that are antioxidants and

of business, or the community

good for you. Then you understand they come from olive oil,

or world at large.

cocoa, dark chocolate, green tea, strawberries, red wine, blueberries, etc. When you put these together. When you gain an even deeper understanding that they are only generated in

DR GAYLE RANDALL’s Soul Stories podcast is

large amounts in organic food grown in microorganism-rich

available on all podcast platforms. Her Instagram TV

soil, you might change your behavior to prefer organic foods.

“fireside chats” appear every Friday at 9 p.m. EDT. Soul

Which sustains and regenerates resources at the same time.

Doctoring: Heal Yourself, Heal the Planet will be on sale May 31 through traditional bookstores, Amazon.com

I&T Today: Many major corporations, such as Walmart,

and most online booksellers.

Unilever, Nestle and so many others, have either partially or SUMMER 2022 | SUSTAI NABI L I T Y T ODAY

F E AT U R E

THE BENEFITS OF SECONDHAND CLOTHES SHOPPING

PHOTO: Artem Beliaikin/Unsplash

BY ERIN JAMES

ECOND-HAND SHOPPING is a great way to live a more sustainable lifestyle. It eliminates unused clothing from filling up landfills and dirtying our environment, reducing our carbon footprint in the form of industrial waste. Studies have shown the second-hand clothing market is projected to more than triple in value in the next 10 years. Could you imagine the impact if everyone purchased a second-hand item instead of buying it new from a retail store? One great benefit to buying second-hand clothing is that the ecologically-conscious second-hand shopper is able to shop in a style-conscious way. Shoppers can promote their need for individualism and selfexpression through their clothing in a way that is influenced by their style and values. Fashion forward shoppers, on the other hand, are more concerned about what is “new” or “trending” — a fashion ideology known as “fast fashion.” Fast Fashion is the mass production of clothing to keep consumers happy by replicating what is hot on the market, causing low-quality apparel. This trend is exacting a huge toll on the planet from an industrial environmental point of view. 46

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

Second-hand clothes shopping is a great way to incorporate style and sustainability into your buying habits.

The fashion world is constantly evolving and the “new” is only new for a short period of time, which brings me to my next point: saving money. Secondhand shopping will put more money in your piggy banks. Most second-hand shoppers find their one-of-akind steals at their local consignment or re-sale stores for gently used clothing. It is estimated that the re-sale value of used clothing items is half the price of the original retail value. With shop owners only taking approximately 25% of what the item is sold for, the rest is going toward keeping the doors open so consumers can continue to enjoy a more sustainable approach to shopping. Lastly, I want to mention the donors. We all have unwanted clothing hanging in our closets or stored away in bins or totes. Many donors have taken to Facebook or other social media outlets to re-sell their unwanted items. This approach generates an inflow of cash for sellers, and buyers receive items at a much lower cost. It’s a win-win for both parties. But, not everything has to be sold. You can also donate unwanted items to local clothing banks that will distribute the items to people in need, leaving you with a feeling of happiness for doing a great societal deed. Both of these practices are a great way to reduce clutter and relieve stress. What great deal will you find hidden away in a bin on your next second-hand shopping adventure? PHOTO: LumenSoft Technologies/Unsplash

Product Revolution COMPILED BY ERIN JAMES

AL L BI RD S

Women's Wool Runners Price: $110.00 Sustainability and athletic fashion come together in Allbirds’ lightweight, machine washable Women’s Wool Runners. Made from premium ZQ Merion wool, these runners are naturally thermoregulating. Add in polyester laces constructed from recycled water bottles and packaging made from 90% recycled cardboard, and you have shoes that are sustainable, amazingly comfortable and attractive enough to use

JARVIS

for sports or for everyday

Jarvis Bamboo Standing Desk

wear. All this, and you get

Price: $509

to help reduce your

Practicality meets sustainability in the Jarvis Bamboo

carbon footprint with

Standing Desk, universally believed to be the best stand up

eco-friendly materials

desk on — and for — the planet. Made from bamboo sourced

and packaging.

from sustainable forests, and grown without pesticides or fertilizers, the Jarvis easily handles heavy workloads with a 350 pound capacity and dual motors. All of this comes in a stand-up design that benefits your overall health while you’re burning the midnight oil.

SN UGPA D

STASHER

Wool Dryer Balls

Silicone Reusable Food Bag

Price: $9-$16 (depending on quantity)

Price: $13

Here’s a dirty secret in the world of laundry: fabric dryer-

Why continue to use a never-ending

sheets and plastic dryer balls are single-use products that fill

stream of plastic sandwich bags when

landfills…and aren’t biodegradable. That’s why Snugpad

there’s a sustainable strategy instead?

developed these amazing Wool Dryer Balls. They’re eco-friendly

Stasher has developed a sustainable way

and made from 100% organic New Zealand Wool. They’re also

to reduce plastic sandwich bags filling up our landfills, eco-

perfume-free, chemical-free and organic, reducing wrinkles and

systems and waterways. Stasher’s Reusable Silicone Sandwich

lint. Best of all, they can each be used for up to four years.

Bags are made from premium grade silicone and petroleum-

Dry your clothes faster, saving you electricity and money,

based chemicals, making them hypoallergenic, BPA-free and

with a product that quickly pays for itself. And remember —

non-toxic. They’re also washable and microwave safe. Stasher’s

small changes really add up when

bags have a user-friendly pinch-and-lock seal that keeps food

it comes to living a more sustainable

fresh longer, and easily preserves food in your freezer. Parents

and greener life.

concerned about supply chain issues should order now for the next school year. They’re a great addition to any child’s lunch box (or even your own), and will eliminate a lot of the trash that we all create without even thinking about it.

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

Product Revolution COMPILED BY ERIN JAMES

PATAGONIA

Women's Downdrift Jacket Price: $299 One of the best sustainable/ethical clothing companies in the sustainable fashion industry, Patagonia remains the trailblazer with its newly-released Women’s Downdrift Jacket. It’s part of Patagonia’s NetPlus Launch – a line of products manufactured from 100% recycled fishing-net fabric E AGL E C R E E K

Migrate Duffel Bag

that once polluted the world’s oceans. These lightweight materials add a

Price: $82 (Amazon)

sense of fast-drying comfort to your

Ever notice how Eagle Creek comes to mind when you think

everyday active and adventure attire.

about sustainable gear? With their determination to build gear

The folks at Patagonia see this as a

that lasts while protecting Mother Earth, EC products also help

fundamental stand to reduce carbon

eliminate waste that would otherwise end up in landfills. The

emissions and are leading by example

Migrate Duffel Bag is an excellent example, with water-repellent

in their quest to Reduce, Reuse, and

coating made from windshield plastics that were sitting in Asian

Recycle. Join them by making your

landfills. With a 40 liter carry-on size that weighs in at just two

own stand while wearing one of these

pounds, this bag is lightweight and versatile, yet durable

fashionable, stylish jackets, and help

enough for even the most adventurous explorers.

keep our global waters clean for years

And did we mention their “No Matter What” guarantee,

to come.

making this a bag certain to last a lifetime?

T I DE

BEAUTYCOUN TER

Purclean Plant-Based Laundry Detergent

The Clean Deo

Price: $36 (2-pack at Wal-Mart)

Price: $26

Tide is introducing its first plant-based liquid laundry detergent

After five years of hard work,

that is made of 75% plant-based materials. Tide Purclean liquid

Beautycounter has created The

laundry detergent has four times the cleaning power of other

Clean Deo refillable deodorant.

natural detergents. Their formula is dye and perfume-free, and

This new environmentally

is made with 100% renewable

friendly deodorant fights body

wind power electricity at a

order, absorbs sweat, soothes

facility that generates zero-

your skin and keeps you feeling

manufacturing waste to

dry and fresh all day.

landfills. This eco-friendly

Beautycounter has cut out the

detergent works in both high

need for ingredients such as

efficiency and traditional

aluminum, so it applies

washing machines. Come see

smoothly and leaves no trace of

for yourself how the fresh

a white residue. And since it’s refillable, the case won’t end up

scent of honey lavender

in your household trash as a single-use plastic. Your skin, our

makes sustainable choices

landfills and all your dark clothing will thank you for using this

good for the senses, as well

product.

as the spirit.

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

VENUE SERIES

CREATING THAT LIVE OUTDOOR CONCERT EXPERIENCE

High Performance Audio Experience Venue Series Today www.wetsounds.com

Coming Next Issue GREEN ARENAS ARE THE WAY FORWARD

PHOTO: SounderBruce via WikiMedia Commons CC-BY-SA-4.0

o you ever wonder how much waste comes from a single professional sporting event? Tens of thousands of beer cups, cans, bottles, hot dog boats and ketchup packets are just the tip of the iceberg, but it’s starting to change. In recent years, there have been a lot of new stadiums built throughout the country. In the Fall issue, we’ll be speaking with representatives from several stadiums, including Kraken Arena at Seattle, American Airlines Arena in Miami and more. Also in the fall issue, we’ll be diving into: • Recycling Breakthroughs & Plastic Alternatives

S UST A I N A B I L I T Y T O D A Y | SU MMER 2022

The interior of Climate Pledge Arena, a sports venue in Seattle, Washington, US, seen in its hockey configuration for the Seattle Kraken of the National Hockey League.

• POWERing Our Sustainable Future • Scorecard: Top Corporations and Diversity Hiring • Why Cannabis Farms are GOOD for the Environment • Sustainable Agriculture: Protein of the Future In a nutshell, we’ll be covering all the bases in the world of sustainability this fall and are excited to bring you all the latest news and innovations in the field. We’ll do the heavy lifting so you can have it all right here in one place. See you next time in Sustainability Today!

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