Introduction

From cars and streetlights to home appliances and phones, energy powers every part of our lives. But where does this energy come from? Historically, we’ve relied on fossil fuels—oil, coal, and natural gas—formed from ancient organisms. These nonrenewable resources come at a high cost. Burning fossil fuels releases carbon, pollutes the air, and harms our health. By reevaluating our energy choices, we can shift toward cleaner, renewable alternatives that lead to a healthier, more sustainable future.

It’s also important to remember that the harm caused by fossil fuels isn’t felt equally. Vulnerable communities often bear the heaviest burden, starting with extraction—over 50% of mineral projects take place on or near Indigenous lands. Across the globe, organizations are fighting for the right to consent before extraction begins. One such movement is Afrika Vuka, which spreads climate education and drives action across Africa. Their new website makes information about Africa’s energy transition more accessible, and movements like theirs are key to creating a sustainable and equitable future for all.

What Energy Can Power a Sustainable Future?

A key solution to the global energy challenge is turning to renewable sources like wind, hydro, and solar power. These alternatives are not only cleaner than fossil fuels but also sustainable. While technological and economic hurdles once slowed their adoption, these barriers are rapidly falling. Thanks to ongoing innovations, the cost of renewable energy—especially solar and wind—has decreased, while fossil fuel prices continue to rise.

Countries around the world are taking advantage of these advancements. Iceland, for example, uses its natural resources to power nearly 100% of its electricity with hydroelectric and geothermal energy. Over 87% of its total energy consumption now comes from renewables, offering a model for others to follow.

While the benefits of renewables are clear, no energy source is entirely without impact. Even clean energy has environmental effects throughout its lifecycle—from production to transportation. Achieving true sustainability means developing renewable energy with an eco-conscious approach. For instance, pollinator-friendly solar panels incorporate native flowers and grasses around solar farms, providing essential habitats for insects while generating clean energy. This approach addresses both the energy crisis and biodiversity challenges, offering a balanced solution for people and the planet.

How Can We Be Part of the Energy Transition?

While we may not control where our energy comes from, we can still help reduce fossil fuel consumption. Small actions matter: use public transportation, carpool, or walk when possible. At home, conserve energy by turning off lights, using natural ventilation when the weather allows, and being mindful of energy use from appliances.

Though individuals use far less energy than corporations, we can make an impact by supporting companies that prioritize clean energy. For example, our partner Nature’s Path is committed to “leaving the earth better than we found it” by focusing on six sustainability pillars, including reducing energy consumption and purchasing carbon credits to offset emissions.

It’s also crucial to use our voices. As our partner Green America emphasizes, we must fight against dirty energy and advocate for clean energy growth. Reach out to elected officials, local leaders, businesses, and universities, urging them to reduce fossil fuel dependence and transition to renewable energy sources. Every action counts in the movement toward a more sustainable future.

Energy Resources

Explore these resources to deepen your understanding of the global energy transition, renewable energy solutions, and the impact of fossil fuels. Each resource is designed to inform and inspire action toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future.

Each Greener Winner will receive: 

• Selection of certified organic products from our partner, Nature’s Path, a family-owned company whose mission is to leave the earth better than they found it. They are committed to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. They hold organic to a higher standard: to build and regenerate the soil. All of their production facilities are zero waste and they are always trying to improve their energy and water conservation.
• Enamelware set (dinner plate, bowl and cup) from Crow Canyon Home. Each piece is made from porcelain-covered steel that’s lightweight, durable, naturally non-stick, easy to clean without plastic coating, can withstand heat, and is shatterproof.
• Napkin and Spoon from Turning Green

Each Greenest Winner will receive: 

• Selection of certified organic products from our partner, Nature’s Path, a family-owned company whose mission is to leave the earth better than they found it. They are committed to environmental sustainability and social responsibility. They hold organic to a higher standard: to build and regenerate the soil. All of their production facilities are zero waste and they are always trying to improve their energy and water conservation.
• An Electric Toothbrush from Suri. Every year over 4 billion toothbrushes end up in landfills or in our oceans. That’s enough to circle the globe twelve times. Suri created a design that delivers an exceptional clean for your teeth with a minimal impact on our planet.
• Toothpaste from Dr. Bronner’s, a family-owned Certified B Corp committed to socially and environmentally responsible practices using the purest organic and fair trade ingredients.