Archive for August, 2011
Posted on August 31st, 2011 by brittany
Well, as many of you have likely heard, Vermont was hit quite hard by tropical storm Irene this past Sunday. Our little state is familiar with severe weather of all sorts: blizzards, thunderstorms, rains, and the like, but it’s not everyday that a tropical storm blows through. The rains and winds of Irene wrecked havoc on many small towns in Vermont, tearing out covered bridges, isolating entire towns with road washouts and destroying homes, businesses and farms.
1% for the Planet has its headquarters in the town of Waitsfield, Vermont, and by no small miracle, our office fared amazingly well. Aside from a basement full of sludge, our floors are dry and our equipment in good condition. The same is not to be said of our neighbors, however. Foundations gone, buildings literally moved by the river, and massive amounts of local produce — lost.
1% for the Planet spent this morning lending a hand in the recovery efforts at neighboring farm, Small Step Farm. We emptied a greenhouse full of plump ripe tomatoes and fresh basil, pulled irrigation tubing out of ditches, carried logs to designated burn piles, pressure washed the silt away from seedling trays and had many a bonfire without the s’mores.
It’s a detrimental time for Vermont and there’s a lot of work ahead, but if there’s anything positive to come of this, it’s the coming together of an incredible community. Locals, out-of-towners, and vacationers alike are all coming out to see how they can help. Social media has also shown its power as those in need create Facebook events, posts are updated every five minutes about what roads are closed or now open, whose dog is lost or found, and how you can support those in need. Only three days after the storm and a massive difference has been made.
Thanks to those of you who have reached out for all for your thoughts, support and concern. If you’re wondering how you can assist in the recovery efforts, please support any of the following nonprofit partners: Friends of the Mad River, Friends of the Winooski River, Intervale Center, Northern Forest Canoe Trail, or The Mad River Path.
Over the next couple weeks if we’re a bit less available on the phone or via email it’s likely because we’re out of office, but rest assured we’ll be in touch as soon as possible. If you’re in the area, feel free to come join us! We plan to spend the next few mornings out and about in the community helping on various projects as needed. While the loss of so much could-have-been-pesto-ingredients is disheartening, the joy of using a pressure washer is quite sensational!
Many thanks!!
– The 1% Team
Posted in News
Posted on August 30th, 2011 by gaelan
Diverse Collection of Individuals Unite to Help Elevate Awareness of Sustainability Issues and ‘Keep Earth in Business’
Waitsfield, VT — What do a beer-brewing CEO, a racecar driver, an artist, a media mogul, a pro-surfer, and a musician have in common? Several things, actually: They live under one sky, share one playground and are all committed to sustainability and giving back through the 1% for the Planet Ambassador Program.
Today, 1% for the Planet, a global network of businesses that invest at least 1% of their sales in organizations focused on sustainability, is pleased to introduce its new ambassadors. The 1% Ambassadors are a diverse group of business-leaders, athletes, artists and activists who are integrating the 1% for the Planet message into their daily lives to help broaden awareness for our global movement. Designed to give influential people a powerful platform to make a difference, the 1% for the Planet Ambassador Program seeks to elevate awareness of sustainability issues while building bridges between corporate and non-profit leaders to keep earth in business.
Our Ambassadors span all walks of life and many divergent professions, including CEOs, media, artists, musicians and even race car drivers. They hold a common core-belief that businesses have the power and responsibility to create reliable prosperity for the planet by investing in sustainability projects with the non-profits partners in the 1% global network. To view all of 1%’s Ambassador profiles please visit the 1% website here.
“We couldn’t be more pleased to have an all-star team of 1% Ambassadors who understand that it’s time for business to move beyond “doing less harm” by committing to making on-going investments in “doing good” for the planet,” said Terry Kellogg 1% for the Planet CEO. “Our ambassadors are a diverse group of business-leaders, athletes, artists and activists who are integrating the 1% for the Planet message into their daily lives to broaden awareness for our global movement.”
1% for the Planet has experienced remarkable growth in recent years and in fact, is fast on the way to becoming the largest network of environmental funders on the planet. Adding the Ambassador Program to it’s mix is a central part of efforts to broaden the personality and character of the 1% brand and to scaling the entire 1% movement.
The complete list of 1% Ambassadors includes:
Kris Holm extreme unicyclist, geo-scientist, Vancouver, BC
Julie Gilhart green-fashionista, consultant, New York, NY
Stu Bowen surfer, eco-entrepreneur, Yamba, Australia
Chase Jarvis artist, photographer, film-maker, musician, Seattle, WA
Leilani Münter race car driver, public speaker, Charlotte, NC
Alex Hillinger digital media entrepreneur, Jackson Hole, WY
Dan Ross pro surfer, Yamba, Australia
Jack Johnson musician, surfer, Oahu, HI
Maya Albanese sustainability expert, New York, NY
Zach Crist extreme skier, Sun Valley, ID
Chris Keyes writer, editor, VP of Outside Magazine, Santa Fe, NM
Penn Newhard PR and media specialist, Basalt, CO
Kim Jordan beer brewer, entrepreneur, CEO New Belgium, Fort Collins, CO
Sara Lingafelter social media entrepreneur, Rock-climber, Seattle, WA
Reggie Crist extreme skier, living wherever snow falls, Planet Earth
Terry Kellogg 1% for the Planet CEO, Waitsfield VT
About 1% for the Planet
1% for the Planet exists to build and support an alliance of companies financially committed to creating a healthy planet. Launched by Patagonia’s Yvon Chouinard in late 2002, 1400+ 1% member companies can now be found in 44 countries around the world. 1% members give at least 1% of their revenues (top line sales) directly to non-profit organizations focused on issues of sustainability. For more information or to get involved please visit our website.
Tags: "1% for the planet", Alex Hillinger, Ambassador, Ambassadors, Chase Jarvis, Chris Keyes, Dan Ross, Jack Johnson, Julie Gilhart, Kim Jordan, Kris Holm, Leilani Münter, Maya Albanese, Penn Newhard, Sara Lingafelter, Stu Bowen, Terry Kellogg, Zach Cris
Posted in News
Posted on August 26th, 2011 by brodie
Doubtlessly anticipating the week-long power outages, widespread calamity and delays in processing new member applications that weathermen are predicting Hurricane Irene will visit upon 1% World Headquarters here on the East Coast, there’s been an impressive influx of new 1% for the Planet business members! This week we welcomed 15 new companies, including:
A3 Creative Solutions, who brings branding, marketing and web design expertise to the 1% family.
Business Culture Consultants, a Burlington, VT company run by our friend Flip who will help you design management strategies and improve leadership and team cohesion.
EpicSUP is an Austin, Texas company that’s catching the Stand Up Paddle wave. Owner Todd Perrine also runs the Austin SUP Club, a non-profit working to improve water quality and build appreciation of the aquatic environment in Texas.
Fairtrad, a new member based in France, has all your translation needs covered with technicians certified in over 50 languages.
Gromeez, based in Truckee, CA is producing all kinds of mountain and action-inspired gear for little rippers, from tees to hoodies.
Grounded Production Services offers film production services based in the heart of the action in LA.
ImageFreak is taking the waste (and worry) out of school photo day by loading school pictures on to a web database and letting parents and students pick their favorites to be printed. No more horrible photos bee-lined to the trash bin, less waste and no more re-take day!
Iowa Powered Yoga is yoga for the enlightened–they have a great community of folks getting together for classes lead by owner Ryan Esdohr.
Iron Age Farm, based in southern Oregon is sustainably raising Tamworth pigs and Soay sheep. Buy their meat or sign up for a class where you can learn to process your own hog and take 80lbs of pork home with you!
Appinar is a new member that offers custom-tailored apps for smartphones that improve businesses’ efficiency and enhance communication abilities.
My Fitness Network will help connect you to training tips, gyms, classes and other fitness-minded folks!
Paleo Treats offers “rations for the driven”– translation: some of the best-looking energy foods I’ve every seen. Be sure to take a look at their site before your next workout.
Sol Raiz Organics offers premium maca that helps increase energy, raises endurance and supports immunity, and by supporting them you give the planet a boost to top it off!
Toasted Snow designs web-based design software for advertising pros. They’ll help you improve communication and increase efficiency–the creativity part is up to you.
Worldcarve‘s Chris Lambertson will set you up with clothes for “low pressure living.” A professional adventurer and heli-guide himself, Chris embodies his company’s slogan.
If you’re hunkering down on the East Coast with Irene and the weather gods have graced you with uninterrupted internet service, take a few hours (or days if it comes to that) and check out these new members!
Posted in News
Posted on August 21st, 2011 by brodie
About a week ago it seemed like every single member company and non-profit partner departed on a giant 1% for the Planet family vacation. Auto-responders trumpeting details of surf trips, beach bonanzas and backpacking forays greeted roughly 50% of the emails I sent. I took to wearing my sombrero in the office and consumed generous amounts of “tropical concoctions” to stave off depression. Just seven days later the tables turned, and this week we welcomed 10 new companies!
Birdman Productions brings video production services and films with an environmental message to the 1% family.
DRINKON offers members huge discounts and insider tips on the best bars, restaurants and clubs in the San Diego area.
Project 571 is supplying college campuses around the country with logo wear made of organic and recycled materials and ensuring that workers are paid a fair wage.
Essential Safe Products helps keep your food (and family) safe from harmful chemicals and toxins with their wide selection of glass, stainless steel and bamboo cookwear. Born of a mom’s concern for her family’s wellbeing, ESP provides a single place to research, buy, learn and share about safe cooking, safe eating and safe choices in life!
Green Denim Initiative lets you make a fashion and environmental statement while sporting their lineup of stylish denim.
Greenhaus Gadgetry stocks everything you need for your eco-friendly home, from goat’s milk soap to natural charcoal.
Indigo Children’s Services Consultancy is a resource for public, private and third party organizations looking to provide the best possible outcomes for children, young people and families.
Kickin’ Kombucha is producing some of the tastiest tea around and will have cowboys in their home state of Texas kicking up their heels along with all you other Kombucha aficionados from coast to coast.
Praxis für Körperarbeit, a German massage studio, will work out all the kinks after your summer adventures, whether you’re battling over the debt ceiling on Capitol Hill or tackling that monster 5.11c at your local climbing spot.
Smith & Tinker, makers of mobile apps, are venturing in to new territory with a game that mixes solid fun with a strong environmental message. Download it for your smart phone soon!
Welcome all!
Posted in Monthly Member Updates, News
Posted on August 18th, 2011 by gaelan
EarthTEC Captures Greenerpalooza Prize
Published Wednesday, August 17, 2011 7:00 am
Earthtec founder Dennis Randall insisted his company be green from the get-go. Combining his commitment to sustainability with his love of the outdoors and his knowledge of technical knits, Randall created a company that produces fashionable, functional clothing made from recycled or renewable materials. Using a streamlined design and manufacturing process, Earthtec does its own product development, knitting, dyeing, finishing, and garment production, resulting in a greener manufacturing with less waste.
In recognition for its innovation, green manufacturing and leadership in bringing the sustainability message to consumers in multiple ways, Earthtec was presented with the 2011 Greenerpalooza Award, given each year to a NH-based person, organization or initiative dedicated to energy efficiency. The award recognizes the accomplishments of those who support and promote green efforts throughout the Granite State and who work tirelessly to ensure that New Hampshire maintains its position as a state which celebrates sustainability.
The presentation was made during the Greenerpalooza IV festivities at the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion. Greenerpalooza, which is presented by the NH Business Resource Center and the Meadowbrook U.S. Cellular Pavilion in coordination with key sponsors, is a celebration of energy efficiency efforts in the state. With the backdrop of a concert by Alison Krauss and Union Station, attendees were able to learn more about the latest energy efficient products and services offered in the Granite State.
“Earthtec, is quite possibly the best example of a company that encompasses all that’s good and right about living and breathing the green lifestyle,” said for NH Division of Economic Development Interim Director Roy Duddy in making the announcement. “This apparel manufacturer takes plastic bottles and transforms them into something very special – clothing that is both stylish and earth friendly. At a time when space at landfills is at an all time premium, what better way to reuse our resources in a fun, creative and productive way?”
Randall and his company are on a mission to bring the message of sustainability to consumers in many different ways. For example, for the past two years, Earthtec has handed out 6,000 free knit hats made from a blend of recycled plastic and organic cotton at hockey games between the UNH Wildcats and Boston College at the Whittemore Center. Earthtec also participated in the Providence Rock and Roll Half Marathon, collecting recyclables that could be turned into apparel.
A member of 1% For The Planet and the Green Alliance, Earthtec has developed the Earth 360 program, designed to capture plastic bottles and other #1 plastic at sporting events, concerts, conferences, schools and other gatherings; and to then process them into flake, then into fiber, yarn, fabric, and finally into apparel and accessories.
“Earthtec has been a fixture at Meadowbrook this season collecting recyclables and is currently embarking on an effort with our office to start similar collections at venues throughout the state,” continued Duddy. “Next week, they will join forces with the Division of Economic Development, PSNH, WTPL and the New Hampshire Fisher Cats to hold the first inaugural Green Scene Night where they will collect over 1,000 plastic bottles and turn them into blankets that will be given out at the New Horizons homeless shelter in Manchester.
“Earthtec is a terrific example of how a business can not only be profitable, but also be environmentally aware and a good neighbor,” Duddy added. “The Greenerpalooza Award is designed specifically for model companies like this.”
To learn more about Earthtec, visit www.earthtec.com. To discover the latest happenings with Greenerpalooza, visit Greenerpalooza IV Facebook page at www.facebook.com/greennh.
Tags: "1% for the planet", earth friendly business, EarthTEC, Eco-award, Greenerpalooza, New Hampshire Business, One Percent for the Planet
Posted in News
Posted on August 16th, 2011 by gaelan
Multi-Media Partnership Will Span Outside Magazine, Outside Online and Outside Television
Waitsfield, VT (August 15, 2011) 1% for the Planet, a global network of businesses that invest at least 1% of their sales in organizations focused on sustainability, and Outside, a media leader in the active lifestyle, outdoor, travel and adventure markets, are up to something… partnering to make the planet a better place. Their partnership is a multi-media one, spanning print, digital and broadcast, with the goal of building awareness of the important work of the 1% for the Planet network.
“The sustainability of business is directly tied to the sustainability of our natural environment,” said Christopher Keyes, Editor of Outside Magazine and OutsideOnline.com. “Corporate giving can have an enormously positive impact on our planet and joining 1% for the Planet is one of the simplest ways to make that happen.”
“Companies and non-profits working together to make big, positive environmental change happen is big news; consumers should know about that and encourage companies to contribute; this partnership enables just that” says Melody Badgett, SVP 1% for the Planet.
The partnership will reach millions of consumers annually and include Outside Magazine, Outside Online and Outside Television properties. The alliance was announced in the Keep Earth in Business editorial in Outside Magazine’s Best Places to Work September issue and takes effect immediately.
“Outside’s leadership position in the industry, along with their sustainable corporate ethos, make them and ideal partner for 1% as we continue to encourage businesses to take a lead role in environmental stewardship” said 1% CEO Terry Kellogg.
1% for the Planet is proud to work with 25 media partners including Mother Jones, Utne Reader and CSR Wire. Each media partner commits to giving 1% for the Planet at least 1% of their advertising inventory to help grow the power and reach of the movement.
For more information on 1% for the Planet, our members and the environmental non-profits they support, and our media partners please visit us at http://www.onepercentfortheplanet.org/en/.
About 1% for the Planet
1% for the Planet exists to build and support an alliance of companies financially committed to creating a healthy planet. Launched by Yvon Chouinard, Founder of Patagonia and Craig Mathews, Owner of Blue Ribbon Flies, in late 2002, 1400+ 1% member companies can now be found in 44 countries around the world. 1% members give at least 1% of their revenues directly to non-profit organizations focused on issues of sustainability. ###
Tags: "1% for the planet", advertising, media partner, Outside Magazine, Outside online, Outside TV
Posted in News
Posted on August 9th, 2011 by brodie
The latest update on new 1% for the Planet members comes from Boulder, CO. After 24 hours of driving from our newly-married Acquisition Guru’s wedding in Hamlin, NY (congrats Grace!) it feels great to stretch the legs and get ready for an attempt at climbing the Grand Teton tomorrow. If only my lower body would get circulation back! I hope you’re all getting to play in the sun as much as the 1% crew has as of late! While you’re out and about, check out these businesses that have recently joined the network.
Our newest member Alexander Trees Company is planting a tree for every single item they sell. Whether you purchase a killer pair of A Trees shades, polo shirt or hoodie you’re making the planet a better place and supporting 1% non-profit partners. They’re just getting started and have already planted 262 trees.
Frozen Laundry is a cool new member who is designing, manufacturing and testing technical wear for mountain bikers in British Columbia. Pick up a jersey from founder Ali Becker at their headquarters in Rossland and then take a few laps at the Whistler Bike Park!
MARK Skateboards elevates the skateboard deck to the level of art, while maintaining durability and enhancing function. Check out their collection of decks. You have my sympathy if you’d rather hang one on your wall than boardslide it. Founder Mark Gobble has one of the coolest life stories I’ve heard, and fyi, those kids in the skatepark might all have Ph.Ds if they’re following in his footsteps.
Seasons Catering joins 1% for the Planet from British Columbia and has your next party, corporate event or summer BBQ covered. They will be happy to customize a menu for you AND they do popovers that would even make Brittany‘s mom, the Queen of Pesto Popovers, jealous.
Spindrift Soda is producing some of the tastiest soda I’ve had the good fortune to try, and owner Bill Creelman’s concoctions have a lot of the non-soda drinkers in the 1% office reconsidering their position. Whether you’re in the mood for a sparkling mango orange or half & half, Spindrift’s sodas are made with real fruits and juices and raise the bar for summer refreshment and corporate philanthropy at the same time.
Posted in Monthly Member Updates, News
Posted on August 2nd, 2011 by gaelan
1% for the Planet CEO Terry Kellogg and SVP Melody Badgett were joined by more than 220 business-leaders, environmentalists and reporters in July for an all-day meeting in Paris to collaborate on how businesses in the 1% for the Planet movement can help create a healthy planet.
The event was hosted by WWF-France and organized by Jacques Fath and Sonia Fougeirol, France-based staffers of 1% for the Planet.
“I’m here because I’m a pessimist,” said Yvon Chouinard, co-founder of 1% for the Planet and owner of Patagonia, Inc. “The planet’s life-support system, which all of our businesses depend on, is being destroyed. So we’re here to do something meaningful to change that.”
This is a tall but appropriate challenge in a time where environmental disasters and economic dysfunction are placing unprecedented pressures on every society across the globe.
But despite the dire-straights all around us, there is actually real reason for hope, and real opportunity for people across the globe to create change through innovation and businesses committed to investing in sustainable models. 1% for the Planet has seen dramatic growth of member-companies across the globe, particularly in France.
And the market is responding: the collective revenue of 1% for the Planet member-businesses grew more than 40% in 2010, due to increasing consumer demand for brands that have true commitments to sustainability.
Here’s a nice 15 minute highlight reel of the event.
Posted in News
Posted on August 1st, 2011 by danny
The 2011 Ecotrust Sundown Concert Series wrapped up Thursday night with an all-star showing of the 1% network! Throughout the concert series, 1% members and non-profit partners have been coming out every Thursday evening to exhibit their commitment to creating a healthier planet. But last week we got to see the whole 1% model in action with 1% member, Trew Gear and their 1% non-profit partner, Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute exhibited their longstanding partnership protect and promote the Columbia Gorge. This was the first week where it was a full partnership at the booth and it was great to see them laughing together and explaining their work together!
 Photo Courtesy of Trew Gear Trew Gear is a ski and snowboard clothing company based out of Hood River, Oregon. They sell jackets, hats, t-shirts, hoodies, and pretty much anything else you would need for a great day of riding in the mountains. Dedicated to sharing the “trewth” Trew gear joined 1% for the Planet in 2009 and has donated to the Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute consistently each year. They haven’t just handed out money either. Tripp, John, and Chris are active volunteers with CGEI, showing that their commitment to the environment runs deep throughout their business.
 Aaron and John enjoying their evening at the booth! Photo courtesy of Trew Gear Aaron Morehouse, Executive Director of Columbia Gorge Ecology Institute, came out on Thursday evening to represent the NGO and their partnership. Aaron works closely with the Trew crew on the projects that they fund and in facilitating their partnership. CGEI works to promote knowledge and stewardship of the Columbia River Gorge canyon in Washington and Oregon. They work with schools and other groups of people, taking them to the canyon and helping them find their place in the environment.
1% would like to thank Trew Gear and CGEI for coming out to last Thursday and for work together to create a healthy planet. It is partnerships like these that speak to the power of the 1% model in action!
Posted in 1% For The Planet Community, Events, Members, News, Non-Profit Recipients
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