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Happy Eco News Top 5 Eco-friendly Companies and Green Stocks To Buy in 2024
Reading Time: 4 minutes Top 5 Eco-friendly Companies and Green Stocks To Buy in 2024
Interests in environmentally focused stocks have faced headwinds over the last few years, mainly due to the high costs of renewable energy infrastructures and ongoing economic challenges. However, 2024 signals a strong resurgence in this sector.
The installation of global renewable power has been on the rise since 2023, followed by an increase in market capitalization to $7.2 trillion in Q1 of 2024. In addition, the stabilizing of the U.S. interest rate cycle is expected to further boost clean energy companies and related stocks. This article details the top five green stocks that can help you position for the incoming boom in green stocks. 
Overview of Eco-Friendly (Green) Investments
Green investments aim to facilitate and support businesses that prioritize environmental safety. Photo by m. on Unsplash Green investments aim to facilitate and support businesses that prioritize environmental safety. These enterprises work to reduce harmful pollutants in alternative production and utilize technologies, such as solar and wind power, that promote sustainability to minimize their ecological footprint. Unlike the older technologies that employ fossil fuels that produce harmful exhausts and waste products, these businesses are focused on safeguarding the health of the natural world for the future and promoting necessary regulations as the world adjusts to climate-friendly alternatives.
Investments in the sustainability sector have heightened lately, especially with the growing interest and appeal of the general public in climate reforms. In turn, many markets, like foreign exchange trading, are thriving. Like the green stocks sector, forex trading is also a highly sustainable financial market. Every transaction carried out by traders is processed digitally and could result in lower greenhouse emissions compared to other investment processes. The cryptocurrency market, for instance, has caused more environmental concerns, given crypto mining accounts for 0.9%-1.7% of the total electricity used in the US. If you’re looking to build a portfolio populated with sustainable-focused companies, the pioneering organizations listed below are paving the way to a brighter future. 
Tesla (TSLA)
Tesla is popular for producing some of the most sustainable cars in the world. The production of these renowned electric vehicles (E.V.s) has earned the company its title as a leading eco-friendly company. These EVs are more sustainable than traditional internal combustion vehicles (ICEs). Tesla’s emissions per vehicle went down 29% between 2021 and 2022 and another 10% by 2023. Car development is known to be a resource-heavy and pollutant-high business, but the company is one of the few that have successfully found a way around this. 
At its Shanghai Gigafactory, Tesla recycled 94% of its total waste in 2023. Overall, about 90% of the company’s waste was recycled in 2023. The company also handles the majority of its in-house processes, which has helped it monitor and adjust from time to time. NASDAQ charts show that TESLA stocks are up 20.55% in the past month, solidifying its promises of good profits for investors. 
General Electric (G.E.)
Green investments focus on safeguarding the health of the natural world for the future. Photo by Ishant Mishra on Unsplash The multinational conglomerate is second on our list, particularly since it has made a number of significant strides towards sustainability. Its investment in clean technologies like sustainable aviation, hydrogen power, and carbon capture have been some of these companies’ goals over the years. G.E. aerospace technologies, for instance, is focused on achieving a long-term goal of net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. General Electric also operates in industries like industrial power, renewable energy, and healthcare. The G.E. stocks are up over 10% in the last month and are one of August’s top performers. 
NextEra Energy Inc. (NEE)
NextEra Energy, Inc. (NEE) is a large American energy company. Headquartered in Juno Beach, Florida, it is one of the largest electric utility holding companies in the U.S. and a leader in solar and wind electricity generation, which makes it one of the biggest green investments in 2024. In addition to wind and solar, NextEra is investing heavily in large-scale battery storage systems, which are crucial for stabilizing renewable energy supplies and ensuring consistent power availability. The company’s long-term goal is to be carbon emissions-free by no later than 2025.
First Solar Inc (FSLR)
First Solar is a renowned American manufacturer of solar panels. The company develops and provides utility-scale P.V. power plants, offering other services, including finance, construction, and maintenance of end-of-life panel recycling. First Solar’s resource-efficient manufacturing procedures have helped the company achieve a carbon footprint of about 2.5 times lower and a water footprint of about three times lower. According to the company’s recent financial reports, it recorded a revenue of €3.39 billion, which is significantly higher than the €3.00 billion acquired in 2023. It has recorded significant growth over the years, and the company’s stocks could be a solid buy to add to your portfolio. 
American Water Works (AWK)
American Water Works Company, Inc. is the largest publicly traded water and wastewater utility company in the United States. It provides water and wastewater services to millions of people across the country through regulated operations in several states. The company emphasizes water conservation through programs encouraging customers to use water efficiently. This includes education initiatives and smart water technology solutions to reduce water waste. AWK’s revenue as of June 2024 was $1.15 billion, with a net profit margin of 24.11%. 
Exploring Green Investment for Long-Term Profitability 
Eco-friendly companies offer a compelling proposition: long-term viability and growth potential. This certainty is one of the sector’s many perks, which is why market investors will turn to them again in 2024. For those seeking enduring investment opportunities aligned with environmental sustainability goals, the stocks highlighted in this article present particularly attractive and profitable options. 
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Happy Eco News Your Business Could Help Prevent The Next Mass Extinction
Reading Time: 5 minutes Your Business Could Help Prevent The Next Mass Extinction
Picture a world without bees to pollinate our crops, without rainforests breathing life into our planet, or without the kaleidoscope of colour found in coral reefs. Though you might imagine such concepts exist only in post-apocalyptic science-fiction films, we’re a little closer to that reality than you might think. Right now, we’re living through what experts are calling the Sixth Mass Extinction; A crisis driven not by asteroids or volcanic eruptions, but by humanity’s own actions. Our activities, from deforestation to pollution, have thrown the delicate balance of life on Earth out of its natural comfort zone. What’s more, the continuation of this could lead to the extinction of up to 1 million species in the coming decades.
What’s at the core of this crisis? Biodiversity—the variety of life on Earth—is in rapid decline, and with it goes the health of ecosystems that sustain life as we know it. But there’s still hope for us, and for the planet. Through biodiversity monitoring measures like eDNA analysis and other conservation efforts, we can slow this extinction event, and even start to reverse the damage.
What is Biodiversity and Why Does It Matter?
When we talk about biodiversity, we’re not just referring to the number of species on the planet – it’s much bigger than that. Biodiversity includes genetic diversity (the variety of genes within species), species diversity (the number of different species), and ecosystem diversity (the range of different habitats and ecosystems).
Breaking It Down
Genetic Diversity is what allows species to adapt to changes in their environment. If there’s a disease outbreak, for example, a species with more genetic variety is more likely to have some individuals survive.
Species Diversity keeps ecosystems functioning smoothly. The more diverse an ecosystem, the more stable it tends to be. If one species goes extinct, others can step in to fill the gaps.
Ecosystem Diversity ensures that life thrives in different environments—whether it’s a coral reef, a tropical rainforest, or a desert. Each of these ecosystems provides different services that benefit all of us, like clean air, fresh water, and food.
More than just lush landscapes or rare animals, Biodiversity is the backbone of our planet’s life-support system, and if we lose it, the intricate natural systems that keep our air clean, our water fresh and our crops growing will unravel.
The Sixth Mass Extinction: What’s Happening?
The Sixth Mass Extinction, also known as the Anthropocene Extinction, is unlike anything the planet has seen before, and this time, it’s driven by us. Through habitat destruction, pollution, overfishing, and climate change, we’ve drastically sped up the extinction process. Species are disappearing at a rate estimated to be 100 to 1,000 times faster than the natural background rate. And this isn’t just happening to obscure, faraway creatures; Many of the species at risk are ones we depend on, like bees, fish and even plants that make up our food supply.
Perhaps the most important question is what can be done to stop this crisis? One key tool that’s gaining traction is biodiversity monitoring, and while it might sound like something reserved for scientists in lab coats, it’s actually one of the most practical ways we can track, manage, and protect the species we have left.
Biodiversity Monitoring: A Lifeline for Earth’s Species
Monitoring biodiversity helps us keep tabs on the health of ecosystems and gives us early warning signs of species in trouble. By tracking which species are thriving and which are struggling, scientists can step in and make informed decisions that can help to protect them.
Spotting Problems Early
Biodiversity monitoring lets us catch species declines before it’s too late. Using tools like camera traps and remote sensors, scientists can track populations over time and spot changes before they become crises. For example, the use of camera traps in the Himalayas has given conservationists much-needed data on snow leopard populations, a species that’s notoriously difficult to observe in the wild.
Then there’s environmental DNA (eDNA) monitoring, a relatively new technique that’s helping scientists detect species in water sources without ever seeing them. By collecting water samples and analysing the DNA traces left behind, researchers can identify which species are present, from fish to amphibians, without disturbing their habitat.
Monitoring Ecosystem Health
Biodiversity monitoring isn’t just about counting species, though; It also helps us track the overall health of ecosystems. If we think of an ecosystem as a machine formed of many moving parts, where one part breaks down, the whole system suffers. Monitoring indicators like species richness, genetic diversity, and ecosystem productivity allows us to gauge whether an ecosystem’s various “parts” are functioning as they should.
Take coral reefs as an example, which offer some of the most biodiverse ecosystems on Earth –  but also the most fragile. By monitoring coral cover and fish populations, scientists can track the effects of rising ocean temperatures and pollution, identifying the most at-risk areas and prioritising restoration efforts.
Crafting Smarter Conservation Strategies
After the data has been collected, the next step is turning it into action. Biodiversity monitoring helps conservationists focus their efforts where they’re needed most. Rather than throwing resources at every endangered species, monitoring allows us to target the most vulnerable ones or protect critical ecosystems, like biodiversity hotspots. These areas, like the Amazon rainforest or Madagascar, are rich in unique species and under the greatest threat from human activity; thus, efforts need to be laser-focused.
Conservation Is For Everyone
We’ve already mentioned that conservation efforts aren’t just for scientists, and there’s more to discuss on this front, as “Citizen science” is making it easier for everyone to get involved. Programs like the Great British Beach Clean or the global eBird project are helping gather huge amounts of data from everyday people. Involving the public in biodiversity monitoring helps spread awareness and creates a sense of responsibility for protecting nature. After all, the more people know, the more they care.
Ways Your Business Can Prevent the Sixth Mass Extinction
While biodiversity monitoring is a crucial tool, it’s only one piece of the puzzle. To prevent the Sixth Mass Extinction, businesses need to address the root causes of biodiversity loss.
1. Protect and Restore Habitats
Businesses can play a role by supporting habitat restoration projects and protecting natural areas. Every time land is cleared for development or agriculture, countless species lose their homes. Your business could support reforestation projects or invest in creating wildlife corridors to allow animals to move safely between habitats. Costa Rica’s success with reforestation is an example of how businesses can get involved and make an impact.
2. Fight Climate Change
Climate change is pushing ecosystems to their limits. To help, your business can reduce its carbon footprint by switching to renewable energy, improving energy efficiency, and setting climate goals. Beyond your own operations, consider supporting climate resilience projects that help protect species vulnerable to shifting habitats.
3. Promote Sustainable Practices
Adopting sustainable practices throughout your supply chain can reduce biodiversity loss. This could mean sourcing materials from responsible suppliers, reducing waste, or using sustainable agricultural practices like agroforestry. Businesses that prioritise sustainability are not only protecting biodiversity but also future-proofing their operations.
4. Work Together Globally
No business can tackle this crisis alone. Join forces with other companies, governments, and NGOs to drive global action. By supporting international agreements like the Convention on Biological Diversity (CBD) and the Paris Climate Accord, businesses can push for stronger environmental policies and greater accountability.
A Time for Action
Whether you believe the experts or not, the Sixth Mass Extinction is a looming threat with the potential to affect all of us. Biodiversity isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for the survival of life on Earth, including human life. The good news is, there’s still time to make a difference.
Biodiversity monitoring, sustainable practices, and global cooperation can help us turn things around, and we all have a role to play. Support conservation initiatives, reduce your carbon footprint, and advocate for policies that protect our natural world. Every action, no matter how small, can help.
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Happy Eco News 6 Passive Design Ideas to Improve Energy Efficiency
Reading Time: 6 minutes 6 Passive Design Ideas to Improve Energy Efficiency
‘Sustainability’ is the watchword of our modern age. As the news cycle fills with headlines caused by climate change, industries everywhere know they have to do better or risk adding to the problem unnecessarily. 
Construction is no exception – and it is within this industry that we stumble across a concept that can play an important role in building a sustainable future.
We are, of course, talking about passive design principles. By following these when building a new property or restoring an existing one, you can lower energy consumption dramatically – eliminating reliance on fossil fuels – and live a far greener, cheaper life.
Before we discuss how passive design principles might include things like glass walls, plants for insulation and structural overhangs, it is important to first establish exactly what we mean by passive design.
What is passive design?
Passive design is an architectural approach that embraces the natural state of a building, its envelope and its materials with the express purpose of improving energy efficiency. To achieve that, the structure will rely far less on artificial means of lighting, heating and ventilation, opting instead for a more sustainable approach. In short, the challenge for architects, homeowners, project managers and contractors is to create a space that is comfortable for all occupants without relying on energy consumption which could come from fossil fuels.
A modern construction utilising passive design principles. Image Cantifix Why is passive design important?
According to research, the use of air conditioning units accounted for 7% of all electricity usage and 3% of all global emissions in 2022, a staggering figure that looks set to rise alongside developing countries as maximum temperatures continue to soar. Heating, likely considered closer to an essential than air conditioning, is an even bigger emitter of greenhouse gases, accounting for four times the amount of emissions associated with AC. If you would like to turn your back on these emissions in pursuit of a greener alternative, it is passive design principles that you need to follow.
But where do you start? Perhaps by saying ‘let there be [natural] light!’
Passive design idea #1: Increase the natural light
We’ve placed the concept of natural light at the very top of our ideas list because – in our humble opinion – it is the best way to improve the energy efficiency of your building. First and foremost, installing a large piece of bespoke glazing like a glass wall, glass roof or corner glass reduces the need for artificial lighting enormously. This is especially important for windows placed on the north side of your house; if you are in the northern hemisphere, these areas are likely to be the darkest, so in need of maximising any possible natural illumination. Secondly, additional glazing can take advantage of thermal gain in the winter by trapping the long-wave infrared rays that produce warmth. To ensure that warmth can flow through your house even after the sun has gone down, it is vital that your windows and other glazed surfaces are modern windows, equipped with appropriate thermal technologies like low-emissivity coatings.
Passive design idea #2: Green insulation
The insulation that fills your walls, sits beneath your carpets and lines your loft is likely to be made from petrochemicals, producing emissions and requiring disposal once they have reached their lifespan (typically a few decades). Green insulation, on the other hand, is a term that encompasses all plants growing up the side of your building or on its roof. You might, for example, let English ivy climb up the side of your building or you might have modules of sedum placed on top of your roof – on tiles that would otherwise be an ecological desert.
 Of course, we know that talking to anyone within the construction industry about growing plants close to a structure can make them feel uncomfortable, but do not fear: English ivy gets a bad press for causing damage, but this is unwarranted. The aerial roots of ivy are only able to take advantage of existing damage, it doesn’t create the damage in the first place. More than simply not causing damage, studies suggest that the plant cools the internal temperature of a building by as much as 5°C in summer when compared to bare buildings and increases the internal winter temperature by as much as 0.5°C. If, however, you don’t trust ivy (and we can’t entirely blame you), there are a host of other climbing plants you could try – star jasmine (Trachelospermum jasminoides), for example, is evergreen and smells amazing at the back-end of summer.
Wisteria covering the exterior of this building. Image by Michaela, at home in Germany Passive design idea #3: Install natural ventilation
If you would like to improve air quality and maintain comfort within a space without relying on appliances like air conditioning units, there are plenty of options available. Strategically placing windows, vents, and openings can create a flow of fresh air that cools and refreshes the indoor environment, something that is highlighted and required by Part F of the UK Building Regulations.
The concept of natural ventilation relies on two primary mechanisms: cross-ventilation and stack ventilation. Cross-ventilation involves positioning windows or vents on opposite sides of a space, allowing cool air to enter from one side and push stale air out the other. This approach works best in areas with consistent breezes, ensuring a continuous flow of fresh air.
Stack ventilation, on the other hand, takes advantage of the natural tendency of warm air to rise. By incorporating higher vents or openings, warm air can escape from the upper parts of the building, creating a vacuum that draws cooler air in from lower openings. This method is especially effective in multi-story buildings and can help maintain a comfortable indoor temperature, even on warm days.
Passive design idea #4: Introduce shading and overhangs
As we mentioned previously, a quick and reliable way of cooling down a room might be to switch on the air conditioning unit, but this is energy-intensive and far away from the idea of passive design. For a south-side room that is getting too hot during the height of summer, you might instead choose to install stylish mechanical awnings, automatic blinds that react to the temperature or even switchable glass, the shading of which can be activated at the click of a button. Natural shading might also come in the form of a wisteria-covered pergola or a deciduous tree that lets light through its canopy in winter but blocks it out during the intensity of summer. These might seem like quite straightforward additions – and they are – but they they are also very effective at controlling the interior temperature of a building.
Curtains can provide the necessary shading in summer. Photo by Pixabay Passive design idea #5: Install a Trombe wall
Harness the power of slow-release thermal energy with a Trombe wall, a temperature regulating concept that we absolutely love! Typically located on the south side of the building, a Trombe wall is made of a heat-absorbing material likeconcrete, brick, or stone and is covered by a layer of glass. Throughout the day, the sun’s warming infrared radiation passes through the glass to be absorbed by the material beyond. As evening draws in and the interior temperature drops, the heat from the Trombe wall is released, keeping you comfortable without burning gas or any other fossil fuels. Far from being an ungly device with only a functional purpose, a Trombe wall can become a feature wall with the right amount of planning, design flair and eye for detail.
Passive design idea #6: Position your building appropriately
While this passive design idea is last on our list, it is the one that must come first when designing your project. If your building is to be built in the northern hemisphere – which we are assuming it is – it should face south to take full advantage of the sun’s thermal energy. In terms of ventilation, you might like to orientate the structure so that the prevailing wind can gently blow through it – however, it is important to plant windbreak trees and other structures that filter the air so that your house or commercial building does not experience the full intensity of the wind./
A living room that is making the most of its passive design. Image Cantifix Conclusion
Passive architectural design is the future of construction. It needs to be if the industry is to reduce its carbon footprint and limit its contributions to climate change. Whether you adopt the concept wholeheartedly, covering your walls with plants and installing a glass roof, or whether you take on board the overarching principles, you have the power to drive that change. The good news? There are plenty of specialists ready to help!

This article was written by William Messenger on behalf of Cantifix, one of the leading architectural glazing specialists in the UK. As well as creating innovative glass products, they also collaborate on research into the impact of natural light on our health and well-being.

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Happy Eco News Stay Tuned to Our Planet: A New Docu-series Tackling Youth Climate Anxiety
Reading Time: 4 minutes Stay tuned to our planet: A new docu-series tackling youth climate anxiety
I couldn’t bear the thought of my son inheriting a broken climate. So I decided to help, in the only way I knew how. 
One morning, swimming in the ocean pool at Sydney’s Bondi Icebergs, my mind was running between the bleak climate future my son – and his generation – look certain to inherit, and my long to-do list waiting for me in the office.
I’m a filmmaker and have spent the last 25 years of my working days in advertising, TV and film production, running several local and international companies.
That particular morning, as I stepped out of the ocean pool and back into reality, I realized something: I had to be part of the climate solution and use my skills to help young people and the next generations feel more positive about their future.
I decided I was going to create a climate series, aimed specifically at teenagers.
At the time, this kind of project had never been attempted before. When I started researching, there was nothing I could find in the climate change discussion that targeted young people (young people don’t particularly like being called ‘young people’, but for the sake of argument let’s say anyone between the ages of 13 and 21). Plenty of studies and white papers and nightmare-inducing stats, sure, but nothing that reached out to teenagers and involved them in an actual solution. 
Three-and-a-half years later, and after extensive consultation with researchers, mental health experts and a teen advisory board, we launched Stay Tuned To Our Planet (STTOP): a 28-episode climate-action docuseries designed specifically for young people on YouTube and TikTok. It’s the first series of its kind – but hopefully not the last.
The idea behind STTOP is, first of all, to break the climate anxiety cycle. There’s so much scary messaging out there, and it’s easy to become overwhelmed and paralysed and spend your Saturday nights mindlessly doomscrolling in your pyjamas. I know; it’s happened to me. Which is why STTOP’s overarching mission is to equip young people with the tools and knowledge they need to take climate action in their own lives. Not necessarily to ‘save’ the planet – although I sincerely believe if we work together as a species we can do just that – but simply to make small, meaningful changes and regain a sense of control. 
Because that’s what’s missing from the majority of the climate discussion: providing hope to those who feel hopeless and power to those who feel powerless. That’s why I wanted to create something that spoke to young people on the platforms they actually engage with. 
According to research, one in three (32%) young Australians are dealing with climate anxiety – an endless sense of existential dread – on a daily basis. On the flipside, 72% of young people say that hearing positive climate stories online genuinely helps. Seeing smart people out there doing good things helps silence – or at least, quieten – that omnipresent voice of eco-anxiety. 
When we were writing and producing the show, we spoke to mental health experts from the Orygen Institute and headspace.org.au, and they backed this up – one of the most helpful ways to alleviate climate anxiety is to provide young people with resources on how they can take action. Fear is paralysing. But knowledge is empowering. 
So what knowledge have we shared so far? Well, all 28 episodes are currently live on our YouTube channel, and they cover everything from zero waste living and greenwashing to the ecological importance of flies (turns out they’re good for more than ruining picnics). We’ve also tackled green banking and the finance industry with Emerson Brophy, and chatted bee hotels with prominent meliponist (stingless bee keeper) Sarah Hamilton. 
We wanted to make these short documentaries entertaining, but also surprising and educational. For example, I was blown away by Dr. Peter Ralph addressing the invisible CO2 on the internet, and learning that deleting photos and emails on our devices actually reduces our carbon footprint. That’s the kind of stuff we don’t even think about! 
Our series is now endorsed by the Orygen Institute, the University of Melbourne, headspace, Planet Ark, Environmental Education NSW, Parents for Climate, Conservation Volunteers Australia and Surfers for Climate. We have also been fortunate to be supported by Documentary Australia and be part of their  Environmental Accelerator program. I don’t actually host the episodes myself – we have an actual talented young person for that, the wonderful YouTuber, Mathew McKenna – and we have a highly skilled team behind the scenes who helped me pull it together and bring this whole vision to life
Youtuber Mathew Mckenna. Image: STTOP Truthfully, this project has kind of consumed me over the last three-and-a-half years.  I have self-funded most of it with some philanthropy, and it’s even become my full-time job. Somewhere along the way I think I became what you’d call a climate activist. 
We’ve been overwhelmed with the response so far, and the plan is to (hopefully) secure some grant funding and further philanthropy to turn the series into a free education program for schools and community groups across Australia, launching next year. 
And as I’ve become more aware and involved and inspired by all these amazing people making a difference, I’ve reclaimed my voice and committed myself to speaking out about things that matter. And nothing matters more than the world we’re leaving behind for our kids. 
And the best bit? Collectively our actions can have a huge impact. 
You may feel like you don’t have much sway over systemic stuff like government policy or international energy agreements. But we all have power as a consumer and as an individual, and using that power can create effective, collective impact. 
So, think before you buy, everytime you choose a product you are exercising your buying power. Learn about ethical banking, or how to recycle properly (according to your local area). Try opshopping or upcycling, or reduce your digital footprint by simply deleting all those unneeded photos and emails!
I absolutely believe we can all make a difference. All we need to do is start!

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Happy Eco News Green Summer Incubator Program at Queen’s University
Reading Time: 3 minutes Queen’s University’s Green Summer Incubator Program culminates with nine entrepreneurs pitching circular economy ventures.
Queen’s University has taken a significant step towards promoting sustainable innovation with the launch of its Green Summer Incubator Program. The initiative, which concluded on August 15, 2024, saw nine entrepreneurs pitch their circular economy-focused business ideas to a panel of industry professionals, competing for up to $10,000 in seed funding.
The program is a collaborative effort between the Dunin-Deshpande Queen’s Innovation Centre, the Smith School of Business Centre for Entrepreneurship, Innovation and Social Impact, and Project Zero, a national circular economy incubator. This marks Project Zero’s first expansion of its incubator model outside of British Columbia, where it has been operating since 2019.
Over four months, participants—undergraduate and graduate students and alumni—received comprehensive support to develop their business concepts. The program provided mentorship, networking opportunities with industry experts, and business fundamentals and entrepreneurial skills training.
The Green Summer Incubator Program is part of the broader Queen’s Venture Creation, Experiential Learning & Net-Zero Training (QVENT) initiative. It aims to nurture a new generation of innovators focused on creating solutions for a regenerative circular economy.
Four ventures emerged as winners from the Green Summer Incubator final pitch event:
X-8 Circular Fashion Club, founded by Zoe Zhu and Yanxi Chen, secured $4,000 in funding. Their concept combines online thrifting with AI-powered fashion design and on-demand graphic printing, giving new life to vintage garments.
YieldFly, led by Kie Pongsupha, also received $4,000. This agricultural venture proposes vertical farming of black soldier flies as a sustainable source of animal feed and organic fertilizer.
Cognitech AI Solutions, founded by Rejoice van der Walk, was awarded $1,000. Their project focuses on AI-enabled leak detection for municipal water infrastructure, aiming to reduce water loss and enhance resource efficiency.
Renovation Scout, developed by Prachi Jangid and Alena Miazga, also received $1,000. Their app guides homeowners through renovations, offering features such as project planning, green retrofit recommendations, and code compliance and rebate information.
These ventures represent diverse approaches to circular economy principles, ranging from fashion and agriculture to infrastructure and construction.
The success of Queen’s University’s Green Summer Incubator program builds on Project Zero’s track record in British Columbia. Since 2019, Project Zero has completed over 60 ventures within the circular economy sector, creating more than 140 jobs across the province.
Georgia Lavender, Program Manager at Project Zero, expressed enthusiasm about the expansion: “It’s inspiring to see these incredible entrepreneurs working to create a circular economy across Canada. I’m excited to continue building momentum as we develop a national network of green leaders actively driving innovation, creating green jobs, and building economic and environmental resilience.”
The circular economy model underpins the incubator’s focus and aims to revolutionize the current “take-make-waste” linear economic system. Instead of resource-intensive processes that generate high emissions and waste, the circular economy emphasizes resource retention, reuse, repair, and recycling. This approach reduces pollution and waste and creates opportunities for new ventures and green jobs.
Project Zero, an initiative of the Synergy Foundation, has been promoting circular economy innovation since 2019. The organization engages stakeholders, including the private sector, local governments, post-secondary institutions, and non-profits, to achieve a shared sustainability vision. Project Zero has supported over 90 businesses within the circular economy sector.
The success of the Green Summer Incubator Program at Queen’s University demonstrates the growing interest in and potential for circular economy ventures across Canada. As these innovative ideas move from concept to reality, they have the potential to create tangible environmental benefits while also driving economic growth and job creation in the green sector.
Project Zero is now seeking partners interested in hosting similar incubator programs in other regions. It aims to expand its impact and foster a nationwide network of circular economy innovators. This expansion could be crucial in Canada’s transition towards a more sustainable and resilient economic model.
As the inaugural cohort of Queen’s University’s Green Summer Incubator Program concludes, the stage is set for these ventures to make their mark on the Canadian business landscape. Environmental advocates and business leaders will watch their progress closely, potentially serving as a blueprint for future sustainable innovation initiatives across the country.
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Happy Eco News California NEVI Investment: $19 Million in EV Charging Network Expansion
Reading Time: 3 minutes California NEVI investment of $19 million in highway EV charging infrastructure leads national efforts.
The California Energy Commission (CEC) and California Department of Transportation have approved over $19 million in California NEVI Investment funding to expand electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure along state highways. This initiative, part of the National Electric Vehicle Infrastructure (NEVI) program, will result in the installation of 248 DC fast charging ports across 45 sites, positioning California at the forefront of a nationwide push for EV adoption.
ChargePoint, a leading provider of networked EV charging solutions, secured the California NEVI Investment funding through its partners. The company will deploy its Express Plus charging stations, capable of delivering up to 500kW charging speeds. These modular units can simultaneously charge two vehicles and maintain peak charging rates for extended periods, addressing the growing demand for fast, efficient charging options.
The new charging stations will be strategically placed along California’s busiest highways, addressing areas currently experiencing EV charger congestion. This expansion aims to improve connectivity between major cities and rural communities, ensuring widespread access to reliable charging solutions. The project is particularly significant for interstate highways like I-5, which connects many of the state’s largest cities.
Rick Wilmer, President and CEO of ChargePoint, emphasized the company’s commitment to providing comprehensive charging solutions. “With the latest awards from California, ChargePoint and its partners continue to open California NEVI investment funded fast charging locations across the United States, ensuring all EV drivers can access charging when and where they need it via the ChargePoint mobile app,” Wilmer stated.
The California NEVI investment project is part of a broader national effort. ChargePoint has secured nearly $90 million in NEVI funding for approximately 150 sites, totaling around 700 fast charging ports across 21 states. While the California NEVI investment is substantial, other states are also making significant strides. For instance, Texas recently announced a $147 million plan to install charging stations every 50-70 miles along major highways, and New York has committed $100 million to its EV Make-Ready Program. These initiatives collectively contribute to the NEVI program’s goal of creating a coast-to-coast EV charging network.
The Express Plus charging stations offer several advanced features. Their modular design allows for flexibility in deployment and future upgrades. The stations utilize a proprietary cooling system to maintain high charging speeds over extended periods, minimizing unexpected delays for EV drivers.
The California NEVI investment in charging infrastructure comes at a critical time for it’s transportation sector. As the state pushes for increased EV adoption, the availability of fast, reliable charging stations along major travel routes is essential. The new stations will help alleviate range anxiety and make long-distance EV travel more practical for a growing number of drivers.
The project also aligns with California’s ambitious climate goals. The California NEVI investment expands the EV charging network, and the state aims to accelerate the transition away from fossil fuel-powered vehicles, reducing greenhouse gas emissions and improving air quality. California’s long-term vision includes achieving 100% zero-emission vehicle sales by 2035, making investments in charging infrastructure crucial for supporting this transition.
As the EV market continues to grow, investments in charging infrastructure play a crucial role in supporting widespread adoption. The NEVI program’s focus on highway corridors ensures that EV owners can confidently plan long-distance trips, knowing that fast charging options will be available along their route.
ChargePoint’s involvement in this project further solidifies its position as a key player in the EV charging industry. The company’s experience in deploying and managing large-scale charging networks will be valuable in ensuring the success of this infrastructure expansion.
The implementation of these new charging stations is expected to begin in the coming months, with completion timelines varying by location. As the network expands, it will provide valuable data on usage patterns and help inform future infrastructure planning decisions.
Looking ahead, California has outlined plans for continued expansion of its EV charging network. The state’s 2023 Infrastructure Deployment Plan details a phased approach, with future rounds of funding aimed at filling gaps in coverage and upgrading existing stations to meet growing demand. By 2035, California aims to have 250,000 shared public and private chargers, including 10,000 fast chargers, to support its zero-emission vehicle goals.
This significant investment in California’s EV charging infrastructure marks an important step in the state’s transition to cleaner transportation. By improving the accessibility and reliability of charging options, California is paving the way for increased EV adoption and setting an example for other states to follow in the nationwide effort to electrify transportation.
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Happy Eco News Grizzly Bears on Vancouver Island
Reading Time: 3 minutes Grizzly bears on Vancouver Island are rare, but in July a mother and two cubs were spotted on Vancouver Island.
In July, a grizzly bear mom and her two cubs were spotted on Vancouver Island in British Columbia, Canada. Grizzly bear sightings in this area are rare because although grizzlies are found in British Columbia, only black bears are generally found on Vancouver Island. The last time grizzly bears lived permanently on Vancouver Island was in the previous Ice Age.
Grizzly Bears on Vancouver Island are rare. They have been known to stay away from Vancouver Island for several reasons. The bodies of water that separate Vancouver Island from mainland British Columbia create significant natural barriers that prevent grizzly bears from easily migrating to the island. While black bears are strong swimmers and can make the crossing, the same has not been observed with grizzly bears on a significant scale. Additionally, because of the large population of black bears on Vancouver Island, grizzly bears never found the “need” to establish themselves there. Historically, any grizzlies that may have attempted to reach the island could have been deterred or eliminated by human presence and activities.
What makes this story interesting is the spotting of a female grizzly bear on Vancouver Island. Female grizzly bears on Vancouver Island are a rarity as it is generally the male bears that are known for swimming and island hopping. Experts suggest that the female bear must have swum to Vancouver Island, met a male, and had her cubs on the Island, as the cubs that were seen would have been too small to swim across.
The sightings of grizzly bears on Vancouver Island are important because these bears play an important role in maintaining the balance and health of the ecosystems that they inhabit.
Grizzly bears are known to carry salmon, which they catch from rivers and streams, into the forest to consume. The remains of the fish that are left behind decompose and provide essential nutrients, like nitrogen, to the soil. This process enriches the forest soil, supporting plant growth and benefiting other species in the ecosystem.
Grizzly bears consume a variety of fruits and berries. As they move across large areas, they excrete the seeds in different locations, aiding in plant propagation and maintaining plant diversity. Their digging behaviour, often to find roots or hibernation sites, creates minor disturbances in the soil, leading to new plant growth and habitats for other species.
As apex predators, grizzly bears help regulate the populations of deer, elk, and other herbivores. By preying on these animals, they prevent overgrazing, which can lead to habitat degradation and loss of biodiversity. Grizzly bears often leave behind parts of their kills, which provide food for scavenger species like wolves, coyotes, and birds. This scavenging process ensures that energy and nutrients are recycled through the ecosystem.
The risk of having more grizzly bears on Vancouver Island is the presence of black bears. These two bears generally do not get along well, as they compete for similar food sources like berries and nuts. Grizzly bears are more territorial and aggressive than black bears, but they are known for living in the same areas. Black bears will generally avoid grizzly bears, especially if food is abundant.
While spotting grizzly bears on Vancouver Island is thrilling, experts stress the importance of photographers and visitors keeping their distance and giving the bears plenty of space. Since bears are already impacted by human activity, we must allow them the room they need to thrive if we want to improve their chances of survival.
It will be interesting to see if there are more grizzly bears on Vancouver Island next summer and if their presence impacts the ecosystem.
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Happy Eco News Top Solar Energy Myths Debunked: What You Need to Know
Reading Time: 4 minutes Top Solar Energy Myths Debunked: What You Need to Know
Despite the rising adoption of solar energy worldwide, many outdated solar energy myths continue to circulate, leading to hesitation among business owners. People often believe that solar energy systems are too costly, inefficient, or impractical, especially for smaller businesses or those in less sunny climates. These solar energy misconceptions can prevent companies from tapping into the enormous benefits of clean, renewable energy. To set the record straight, let’s address the most common myths about solar energy. 
Myth 1: Solar Panels Are Too Expensive
Some businesses may be reluctant to switch to solar energy due to the perceived high initial costs. However, this concern can be mitigated by exploring offers from solar companies that provide free installation, charging only for the electricity produced. This electricity is often significantly cheaper than current rates, making solar a cost-effective option that lowers operational costs and provides long-term advantages. Additionally, the solar installer is incentivized to install a highly efficient and reliable system.
In addition to free solar installation programs provided by the private sector, governments worldwide often offer various incentives like solar panel grants for businesses to encourage them to adopt solar energy. In the UK, for instance, the Smart Export Guarantee (SEG) enables businesses to earn payments for any surplus electricity they send back to the grid. This makes solar power not only environmentally friendly but also a financially beneficial option.
Myth 2: Solar Panels Don’t Work in Cloudy Weather
There’s a popular misconception that solar panels only work under the blazing sun. In reality, solar technology has come a long way. Modern solar panels can generate electricity even on cloudy days. While direct sunlight is ideal, solar panels still capture and convert diffuse sunlight. The key takeaway? Don’t let a few clouds stop you from considering solar.
Myth 3: Solar Energy Can’t Power My Entire Business
This myth stems from the belief that solar energy is too weak or unreliable to cover the full electricity demands of a business. While it’s true that solar output can fluctuate depending on weather and daylight hours, modern solar systems are designed to integrate with the grid. This means that businesses can use solar energy as their primary power source and rely on the grid when necessary. Even solar panels for manufacturing businesses can be accommodated. Battery storage systems are also available, allowing businesses to store excess energy for later use. The result? A reliable, sustainable energy supply that reduces dependence on traditional energy sources.
Myth 4: Solar Panels Require Too Much Maintenance
This can be straightforward and there are warranties available. Choosing a reputable solar installer is key to a smooth and worry-free experience as they will ensure that your solar system is maintained properly. 
Myth 5: Solar Energy Isn’t Efficient Enough
Some sceptics argue that solar panels aren’t efficient enough to make a difference. However, solar technology has advanced dramatically in recent years. Today’s panels have high efficiency rates, meaning they can convert a significant portion of sunlight into electricity. 
Myth 6: Installing Solar Panels is Too Complicated
While installing a solar system requires some planning, it’s not as daunting as you might think. Many solar companies offer custom solutions, handling everything from system design and permitting to installation and maintenance and eventually, solar panel recycling.. This means you won’t be left to figure out the technical details on your own. A professional installer will assess your energy needs and tailor the system to maximise efficiency. The bottom line? Installing solar isn’t complicated when you’re working with the right partners.
Myth 7: Solar Power is Only for Large Corporations
Another myth that needs debunking is that only big businesses can benefit from solar power. The truth is that solar is scalable. Whether you run a small café or a large industrial facility, solar can be adapted to meet your energy needs. Small businesses, in particular, stand to gain from the cost savings that solar offers. With the right system in place, businesses of all sizes can reduce their energy bills and contribute to a cleaner environment.
Myth 8: Solar Panels Will Damage My Roof
There’s often concern that mounting solar panels on your roof will cause structural damage. However, solar panels are typically installed without penetrating the roof, using mounts that evenly distribute the weight and ensure no harm to the roofing material. In fact, solar panels can even protect your roof from the elements by acting as an additional layer of protection against sun and rain.
Myth 9: Solar Energy is Just a Fad
Some see solar as a passing trend, but the data tells a different story. Solar power is here to stay. With growing concerns over climate change and the push towards renewable energy, solar has become an important component of global energy strategies. As governments and businesses choose to use more green energy, the future of solar looks brighter than ever. It’s not just a fad—it’s the future of energy.
Myth 10: Solar Power Isn’t Worth It
Is solar power worth the effort? The answer is a resounding yes. The benefits—both financial and environmental—are clear. Solar energy reduces your carbon footprint and cuts down on electricity costs,  potentially by one third. With solar technology becoming more affordable and accessible, there’s never been a better time to make the switch. So, is solar really worth it? Absolutely.
Meta description: Discover the truth behind common solar energy myths. We debunk misconceptions about solar power’s cost, efficiency, and impact to help you make informed energy choices.
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