Ecology & Energy

Energy is essential to every human endeavor. As we deplete the world’s fossil fuels, we pollute our atmosphere and accelerate climate change. The easiest way to slow climate change is to use less energy, but conservation can only take this energy thirsty world so far. Alternative energy from wind and solar can be part of the solution, but even these technologies have hidden costs.

The American Bird Conservancy estimates between 175,000- 250,000 birds are killed in the U.S. annually by turbines. Think China, the fastest growing wind market, and imagine the problem globally.

We are working with Avian Safety Research (ASR) to develop and elegant solution to the bird-turbine conflict. Using sound cues and a revolutionary device called the etripsycord, we plan on retrofitting existing turbines and working with the power industry to incorporate our findings into new turbine design and site planning for future wind farms.

The shift towards sustainable energy represents countless opportunities for companies and services. Green In The Black is helping these emerging technologies with strategy, design, and engineering making the sustainable obtainable and profitable.

Prosperity

To be prosperous is not merely to survive but to thrive. Without access to ample food and water, it's impossible to be engaged in building community, or be curious about culture.

Feeding the hungry is a daunting task. Couple hunger with hygiene, AIDS, and a hand full of other challenges found in Africa and we may as well stay home.

Enter Steve Kallaugher and a small group working diligently and effectively feeding orphans in Swaziland. His group is called Young Heroes, and their work is feeding the kids and keeping them on their homesteads - not sequestered in orphanages. "just feed the kids", Steve says, "and the rest will unfold".

For 2011, Green In The Black is helping to coordinate Swazi Challenge where a group of sponsored mountain bikers will tackle the Hhohho Mountainous region of Swaziland. We are seeking corporate and individual sponsorship, including jerseys, bikes, and of course - some strong riders who would like to explore Africa. Click here for more information. As a point of fact, $240 will feed a kid for a year. Swazi Cycle 2010 raised $100k. It's tangible. It's effective. This project works. Check it out.

Sustainable Strategy

There is a revolution afoot. The organic food market is thriving. Sustainable products are entering the mainstream - no longer the stuff of dreams – designers are grounding their work in the principles of nature. Many companies are considering the triple bottom line, measuring success against social, ecologic and economic benchmarks. Companies are differentiating themselves with cradle to cradle design principles which involve listening to the end users and considering the product lifecycle. These new products and services can thrive in the market place. Increasingly consumers understand and demand this thinking, and it’s differentiating companies and products and driving brand loyalty.

Think about it: Wal-Mart sells organic food. McDonald’s has organic coffee. Hello, it’s time for your company to be a part of the new revolution.

Green In The Black is helping create media campaigns, including social media and speech writing to bring these complex ideas into common dialog. Brining fresh an unexpected thinking to the market. Good design, good communication with your market and leveraging with like minded brands. Join the design revolution as we help you re-imagine your products and services.