Posts made in June, 2015

Five materials for a sustainable fashion future

The quest for high-performing, sustainable materials continues apace as progressive fashion brands seek to create garments using fewer natural resources and generate a lower impact on the environment. More than 1,000 sustainable materials were showcased at the Future Fabrics trade show in 2014. Meanwhile, designers can compare the impacts of diverse materials using interactive tools, and multiple collaborations are forming to develop healthier, low impact materials, pioneer closed loop models or prevent waste, including Fashion Positive and Reclaim to Wear. “We’re seeing an increasing...

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Harnessing the power of mobile to expand energy access

Kenya-based business SteamaCo is harnessing the disruptive power of mobile to bring affordable access to electricity to rural, off-grid communities. Its smart technology allows solar micro-grid owners to monitor the performance of micro-grids remotely and capture consumer payments via mobile money platforms, thereby overcoming the traditional challenges of keeping grids working reliably and profitably. This simple but fundamental transition stands to make investment in solar micro-grids a truly compelling prospect, bringing electricity to millions and empowering local entrepreneurs to...

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Purpose over profit: Interview with CEO of DNV GL

The president and chief executive of risk management giant DNV GL is unequivocal about the role of business in society. The private sector stands to make a critical contribution to developing a safe, sustainable future, he believes, and supporting and scaling this effort is vital. By joining the Board of the UN Global Compact (UNGC) – the world’s largest voluntary corporate sustainability initiative, supported by 8,500 companies – Dr Henrik O. Madsen will reinforce his commitment to accelerating the pace of progress. Through his three-year tenure, he will join business leaders,...

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