Credo Beauty has eliminated single-use products and packaging, as well as harmful substances like PFAS, PVC, and bisphenols from its product packaging. The company has set guidelines for its partner brands to follow suit and has introduced a reusable sample jar called REJAR. Credo has also partnered with Mob Beauty, Hudson’s Bay, and Element Packaging to establish a recycling program called Pact, aiming to recycle small beauty packaging items. The initiative includes installing recycling bins in stores and a mail-back system. Credo plans to further reduce virgin petrochemical plastic in its packaging by June 2023.

ME.LAND, a French footwear brand, has launched Vivace, a new line of 100% vegan and recycled sneakers made from ocean plastic collected by the SEAQUAL initiative. The sneakers feature various sustainable components and are crafted by Portuguese artisans. The brand emphasizes fair pricing and local sourcing to minimize carbon footprint. This launch aligns with the growing trend in eco-friendly footwear, with other brands like Thousand Fell, H&M, and Rens Original also introducing sustainable sneaker options.

France and Germany have announced a historic ban on the killing of male chicks by crushing or gassing, effective from next January. This move, driven by animal welfare concerns, will be supported by new technology to identify the sex of eggs before hatching. The French government will provide financial support for the necessary equipment, and both countries will advocate for similar measures across the European Union. Additionally, the castration of live piglets will be banned from 2022, with provisions for local anaesthetics where necessary.

Lululemon, in collaboration with LanzaTech, India Glycols, and Far Eastern New Century, is pioneering the creation of fabric from recycled carbon emissions, aiming to reduce reliance on fossil fuels and promote a circular economy. This initiative aligns with Lululemon's Impact Agenda to achieve 100% sustainable materials by 2030. The process involves converting carbon emissions into ethanol, which is then transformed into polyester, offering a sustainable alternative to traditional petroleum-based fibers. Despite higher costs, efforts are underway to make the process more cost-effective, reinforcing Lululemon's commitment to sustainable innovation in the apparel industry.

Harvest B, an Australian vegan protein startup, secured US$3.5 million in seed funding, including a US$1 million grant from the Australian government. The funding round was led by W23 Ventures and Aura Ventures, with additional support from angel investors and startup accelerators. The company aims to build a local supply chain for plant-based meat ingredients, supporting Australian farmers and advancing sustainable food systems. With a focus on R&D and local production, Harvest B plans to expand its operations domestically and internationally. The Australian government’s support highlights the growing importance of the alternative protein industry, which has seen significant growth in retail sales and manufacturing revenues.

Global hospitality group Accor has partnered with Chinese plant-based company YouKuai to incorporate its vegan pork brand Zrou into menus across its hotels in Greater China. Zrou, made from non-GMO soybeans and other plant-based ingredients, aims to cater to the growing demand for sustainable food options among young Chinese consumers. The collaboration will see new plant-based dishes created by celebrity chefs and featured in Accor's hotels, including Raffles, Fairmont, and Sofitel. The initiative aligns with Accor's sustainability goals and aims to modernize the culinary scene in its hotels.

E-grocery startup Lyfa, headquartered in Basel, Switzerland, secured an undisclosed amount in its pre-seed round led by Rockstart and Swiss Startup Group. Founded in 2019, Lyfa offers over 250 products in reusable packaging and plans to expand its operations and product range. The company aims to reach operational profitability by the end of 2021 and expand to Zürich and Bern. Rockstart's AgriFood fund, which has invested in 20 startups since 2019, supported Lyfa for the second time, emphasizing the importance of sustainable solutions. Swiss Startup Group's Max Meister highlighted Lyfa's alignment with strong trends in e-groceries and sustainability.

Sustainable fashion brand TOMORROW has partnered with Sea Shepherd to launch the One Ocean collection, featuring eco-friendly clothing made from organic and recycled materials. The collaboration aims to raise awareness about ocean conservation, with 50% of proceeds supporting Sea Shepherd's efforts against illegal fishing and marine pollution. Sea Shepherd founder Paul Watson emphasizes the destructive reality of commercial fishing and the need for actionable awareness. The organization's work will be highlighted in the upcoming documentary 'Fin,' directed by Eli Roth. Sea Shepherd has also been recognized for its contributions to combating illegal fishing in Liberia.

NovoNutrients has raised US$9 million to advance its industrial pilot project aimed at converting CO2 emissions into high-quality vegan protein ingredients using naturally occurring microbes and industrial biotech. The funding includes US$4.7 million from Happiness Capital and contributions from other investors like E2JDJ and Marinya Capital. The company plans to use the funds to build commercial-scale facilities at industrial sites where CO2 and hydrogen are generated, with the goal of reducing industrial carbon emissions and producing cost-effective, high-value protein ingredients. NovoNutrients also aims to expand its platform to create other biobased chemicals and materials.

Ethos, a new media and e-commerce platform, has been launched to address sustainability, wellness, and human rights in the luxury market. Co-founded by Jill Ettinger, the platform aims to cater to a mature and financially stable audience, focusing on sustainable living across various sectors including fashion, travel, wellness, and tech. Ethos plans to launch an e-commerce site targeting the luxury market, which is valued at nearly $7 trillion. The platform also encourages discussions on race, gender, equity, mental health, and wellness, partnering with the Conspirituality Podcast to explore wellness culture myths and conspiracy theories.

A study published in Science Advances warns that by 2025, large areas of north-western and southern India will face critically low groundwater availability, leading to a significant decrease in crop production and a potential food security crisis. The research, funded by NASA, highlights the inefficiency of current irrigation methods and suggests alternative strategies such as switching to less water-intensive crops and improving irrigation efficiency. Experts emphasize the need for coordinated, science-led policy decisions to address the issue.

BrightFarms has launched BrightLabs, a new biotech R&D hub at its Ohio facility, aiming to increase indoor farming innovation tenfold. Led by Matt Lingard, the lab will focus on biotech research to enhance plant yields and develop next-phase solutions. CEO Steve Platt emphasized the importance of maintaining market advantage in the growing indoor farming industry. The lab's launch follows a significant capital raise and will leverage machine learning and advanced data analysis. BrightFarms aims to expand its product reach to over 3,500 stores by the end of 2021.

Footwear company Ccilu has introduced the XpreSole Panto, the world's first rain boot made from upcycled coffee grounds. The boot, which is vegan-certified and made from 100% recycled or eco-friendly materials, aims to reduce coffee waste and limit CO2 and methane emissions. The Kickstarter campaign for the boot quickly surpassed its funding goal. The XpreSole Panto is designed for various uses, is lightweight, water and dirt-resistant, and machine washable. The company plans to launch the world's first carbon-neutral footwear by the end of the year. Finland-based Rens Original also creates sneakers from upcycled coffee grounds.

A new report by Faunalytics, supported by VegFund, surveyed U.S. and Canadian consumers transitioning to veganism or vegetarianism, revealing that there is no single perfect method for making the switch. The study found that 79% of individuals take several days to months to transition, with an average success rate of 88% after six months. Despite some consuming more animal products than planned, the report emphasizes the importance of a personalized approach and ongoing support to achieve lasting dietary changes. Ethical and health implications of animal agriculture have gained prominence, especially during the COVID-19 pandemic, motivating more people to experiment with plant-based diets.

Longspur Capital and Radnor Capital Partners have launched the Active Net Zero Clean Energy Index to create a database of companies actively contributing to a net-zero world. The index, based on actual performance rather than promises, aims to identify and reward genuine clean energy efforts while exposing greenwashing claims. It includes the top 50 European clean energy companies meeting strict criteria and excludes fossil fuel companies unless they demonstrate significant net-zero activities. The initiative seeks to provide investors with a transparent and systematic framework for sustainable investments.

A new study reveals that the Amazon rainforest is now emitting more carbon dioxide than it absorbs, releasing a billion tonnes of CO2 annually. The research, published in Nature, highlights the significant impact of deforestation and fires, exacerbated by climate change. Lead researcher Luciana Gatti emphasizes the urgent need to reduce fossil fuel emissions and criticizes Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro for his inadequate response to deforestation. The study calls for global cooperation to save the Amazon, warning that continued deforestation could turn the rainforest into a permanent source of carbon emissions.

The Single Origin Food Co (Sofco) has secured US$1.1 million in seed funding led by A’Z Angels to expand the rollout of its plant-based honey substitute, Vegan Un-Honey, across U.S. stores including Whole Foods, Natural Grocers, and Safeway Albertsons. Founded in 2015, Sofco focuses on sustainable and ethical food production, partnering with farmers to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase biodiversity. CEO Belal Elbana emphasized the company's mission to fix the food chain and highlighted future product developments. The U.S. National Agricultural Statistics data underscores the environmental impact of traditional honey production, which Sofco aims to mitigate with its vegan alternative.

Quorn is exploring new extrusion technology to create vegan meats with textures and flavors that replicate traditional meat, targeting the growing flexitarian market. The company is collaborating with startups through the Future Food-Tech innovation Challenge, with Paris-based Umiami winning the pitch. Umiami's unique texturization technology allows for the creation of thick, fibrous whole-muscle cuts of plant-based meat without additional texturing agents. This technology offers better control over fiber direction, thickness, water, and fat content, potentially improving the meat replication process. Quorn will support Umiami in scaling this technology to meet consumer preferences.

Blue Tribe Foods has launched its vegan chicken nuggets and keema in the Chandigarh Tricity, aiming to promote sustainable dietary alternatives in a region known for its meat dishes. The company, founded by Nikki Arora Singh and Sandeep Singh, seeks to reduce meat production's environmental impact. A survey indicated a significant interest in plant-based foods among Indian consumers. Blue Tribe Foods plans to expand its product offerings and market presence across India. Other companies like PlantMade and AAK are also contributing to the growth of India's alternative protein sector.

Biotech company Bucha Bio is revolutionizing the textile industry by offering a 100% biodegradable, biobased leather alternative made from bacterial-nanocellulose. This sustainable material, which can be produced in just weeks, aims to replace traditional animal-based and plastic leathers, significantly reducing environmental impact. Bucha Bio's innovative process consumes less water and emits fewer greenhouse gases compared to conventional methods. The company has partnered with Spira for sustainable dyes and collaborated with designers to create various products. Supported by SOSV IndieBio, Bucha Bio is at the forefront of the shift towards more sustainable commercial industries.

A Japanese company, Mizuiro, in collaboration with graphic designer Naoko Kimura, has developed Oyasai Crayons, a safe and sustainable alternative to traditional crayons made from organic vegetable waste and rice. This innovation addresses the health hazards posed by toxic substances found in many conventional crayons, as reported by the Consumer Council in Hong Kong and the U.S. Public Interest Research Group. Traditional crayons, often made from paraffin wax, are not only harmful to children but also detrimental to the environment. The Oyasai Crayons meet both Japanese and European safety standards, offering a non-toxic option for children's art supplies. Efforts like the National Crayon Recycle Program and Crayola's sustainability initiatives are also highlighted, though the article emphasizes the benefits of switching to naturally-made crayons to protect both children and the planet.

Earth Warriors, a London-based curriculum provider, offers one of the first educational syllabi focused on teaching children aged 3 to 7 about sustainability through play-based activities. Founded by Shweta Bahri and Keya Lamba, the curriculum is designed for both schools and parents, emphasizing climate-positive actions and community engagement. The program has been quality-assured by experts from Harvard and Stanford and aligns with the U.K.'s Early Years Student Learning Standards. Earth Warriors also commits 5% of its annual profits to protecting endangered animals. The article highlights the importance of early climate education and features testimonials from parents and experts.

Singapore-based Hoow Foods has launched a new plant-based subsidiary, Hegg Foods, and introduced a vegan egg product called HEGG. Utilizing its proprietary AI platform RE-GENESYS, Hoow Foods aims to create healthier and sustainable food alternatives. The new product is designed to be a convenient, cruelty-free, and environmentally friendly alternative to traditional eggs, supporting Singapore's goal to locally produce 30% of its nutritional needs. The company has secured significant investment and plans to scale up production, contributing to food security and reducing dependency on egg imports.

Ella Mills, founder of the plant-based food platform Deliciously Ella, has launched her first vegan restaurant in London named 'Plants by de'. Initially starting as a recipe website, Deliciously Ella has expanded to include a successful app, multiple cookbooks, and a line of food products available in major UK stores. The new restaurant aims to offer an innovative plant-based dining experience, featuring a variety of small and large plates, as well as a special breakfast menu.

Planterra Foods has expanded its OZO product line to include vegan frozen nuggets, meatballs, and chicken patties, along with new versions of its plant-based Smokehouse Burger and Ground Turkey. This expansion aims to meet the growing demand for plant-based frozen foods, particularly among flexitarian consumers. The new products, which are soy-free and created through a fermentation process, will be available online and in supermarkets across the U.S. Additionally, Planterra Foods has signed an agreement with UNFI Canada to stock its vegan meat in over 200 retail locations in Canada. The article also mentions other companies like JUST Egg, Beyond Meat, and One Planet Pizza, highlighting their recent expansions and product launches in the plant-based food market.

Vegan beauty is gaining popularity with brands focusing on sustainability and cruelty-free practices. Highlighting five Asian beauty brands—Balm Botanique, Purito, Daughter Earth, Coconut Matter, and Bhuman—the article showcases their commitment to using natural ingredients, eco-friendly packaging, and ethical practices. These brands are making significant strides in reducing waste and promoting sustainable beauty products, contributing positively to the environment and setting a trend for the beauty industry to follow.

Just Salad has announced its largest-ever capital raise, with participation from Closed Loop Partners and Panda Restaurant Group. The funds will be used to double the number of Just Salad locations and expand its Reusable Bowl program. Closed Loop Partners, dedicated to scaling the circular economy, marks its first restaurant investment with Just Salad. The initiative aims to reduce packaging waste and promote sustainability. Just Salad's growth and innovative approaches, including a new meal kit brand and the Zero Foodprint Salad, have been recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency. Other companies like Burger King and Deliveroo are also exploring reusable packaging solutions.

The article discusses the concept of rewilding as a conservation strategy to combat climate change and restore biodiversity. Despite the temporary air quality improvements during COVID-19 lockdowns, UNEP found that carbon dioxide levels have increased, indicating that industrial slowdowns have had little effect on global warming. Rewilding, a term coined by conservationist Dave Foreman, aims to restore nature's balance by increasing biodiversity and creating self-sustaining environments. The article highlights various rewilding efforts, such as the Y2Y initiative in North America, Rewilding Europe's projects across the continent, and successful wildlife reintroductions in India. It also touches on the potential of rewilding to enhance eco-tourism and the need for government support. A recent campaign in Scotland seeks to make the country the world's first Rewilding Nation, with public support for the initiative. The article concludes by emphasizing the economic risks of biodiversity loss and the importance of sustainable practices in eco-tourism.

Scottish actor and activist Alan Cumming, on behalf of PETA, urged COP26 president Alok Sharma to remove meat and dairy from the summit's menu, advocating for veganism to align with the summit's climate goals. Cumming's letter highlights the significant environmental impact of animal agriculture, citing research and expert opinions that support a plant-based diet as a crucial measure to combat climate change. Despite Glasgow being named the most vegan-friendly city in the UK, COP26's menu includes animal-derived foods, prompting over 55,000 people to call for a change.

The Lexicon, in collaboration with the Alliance of Bioversity International and CIAT, has launched the 'Reawakened Foods' campaign to promote global biodiversity through storytelling. The initiative aims to address the over-reliance on a few crops by encouraging the use of forgotten crops to enhance food security and environmental resilience. The campaign invites storytellers, photographers, filmmakers, designers, journalists, and biodiversity experts to participate. Selected participants will undergo a masterclass and create stories to be featured at the 2nd International Agrobiodiversity Congress, driving discussions on sustainable food systems and biodiversity conservation.

Global athleisure brand Lululemon has introduced the world's first yoga accessories made from Mylo, a mushroom-based vegan leather developed by Bolt Threads. The new products, including yoga mats and bags, align with Lululemon's sustainability goals. Mylo, created from renewable mycelium, offers a cruelty-free alternative to traditional leather. The initiative is part of a consortium with brands like Kering, Adidas, and Stella McCartney. Lululemon also launched a sustainable collection with earth-friendly dyes and a resale program to reduce carbon footprint and waste.

XPRIZE has announced the semifinalists for its Feed the Next Billion competition, aimed at developing alternative chicken and fish proteins. The competition, launched in December 2020, is a $15 million initiative to create sustainable and nutritious alternatives to conventional meat. The 28 semifinalist teams, selected from 14 countries, will receive around $500,000 to advance their projects. The competition is supported by organizations like ASPIRE, The Tony Robbins Foundation, and the Good Food Institute. The finalists will be chosen based on the innovation and effectiveness of their prototypes, with the winner receiving a $7 million prize.

The article discusses veganic farming, a sustainable agricultural practice that avoids the use of animal-based fertilizers and chemicals, focusing on soil regeneration and biodiversity. Veganic farming, also known as vegan organic or plant-based farming, is presented as a method that minimizes harm to animals and the environment while promoting human health. The article highlights the work of Helen Atthowe, a Veganic farmer and Horticulture Research Assistant for Oregon State University, and the benefits of veganic farming, such as reducing greenhouse gas emissions and empowering farmers financially. It contrasts veganic farming with traditional organic farming, which allows animal-based fertilizers, and emphasizes the importance of certification programs like the biocyclical vegan standard. The article also addresses the criticisms of veganic farming, advocating for it as a sustainable and ethical choice for the future of agriculture.

Unilever is expanding its refill and reuse program across the U.K. to reduce plastic waste, following a successful trial in Asda's Middleton store. The initiative includes a 'return on the go' pilot and aims to halve the use of virgin plastic by 2025. The program will also be tested in select Asda and Co-op stores by the end of 2021. Unilever has partnered with Coles in Australia, Walmart in Mexico, and Carrefour in Pakistan to offer refill stations for various products. Despite these efforts, Unilever faces criticism for allegedly developing ineffective solutions to the plastic pollution crisis.

UGG has launched The Plant Power Collection, a vegan and sustainable shoe line made from carbon-neutral materials like Hevea rubber, sugarcane, and hemp. The collection includes the Fluff Sugar Platform, Fluff Sugar Sandal, and Neumel Natural, all designed to reduce environmental impact. UGG's president, Andrea O'Donnell, emphasized the company's commitment to tackling climate change. The collection is produced in a factory supporting HERproject, which aims to empower women in the supply chain. UGG plans to increase its use of sustainable materials by 35% by 2027. The article also mentions other brands like H&M, REI Co-op, and Rens Original, which are also focusing on sustainable footwear.

UGG has launched The Plant Power Collection, a vegan and sustainable shoe line made from carbon-neutral materials like Hevea rubber, renewable sugarcane, and natural hemp. The collection includes the Fluff Sugar Platform, Fluff Sugar Sandal, and Neumel Natural, all designed to reduce environmental impact. UGG's president, Andrea O’Donnell, emphasized the company's commitment to tackling climate change. The collection is produced in a factory supporting HERproject, which aims to empower women in the supply chain. UGG plans to increase its use of sustainable materials by 35% by 2027. The article also mentions other brands like H&M, REI Co-op, and Rens Original, which are also innovating in sustainable footwear.

Moving Mountains has introduced a new vegan fish fillet aimed at replacing traditional, unsustainable fish in popular dishes, positioning it as a revolutionary product in the food industry.

Moving Mountains, a food tech company, has introduced a vegan fish fillet aimed at revolutionizing the fish and chips industry and addressing the sustainability crisis in the oceans. The soy-based product, which mimics the taste and texture of whitefish, is free from hormones, antibiotics, GMOs, cholesterol, mercury, and microplastics. It is also claimed to produce fewer greenhouse gases and require fewer resources than animal-based meat. The product is available in 100% recyclable packaging through the online grocery retailer Ocado. The launch aligns with concerns over the impact of traditional fishing practices on marine life and ocean pollution, as highlighted in the documentary 'Seaspiracy'.

Miyoko’s Creamery has launched Cheese of Champs, a program that partners with vegan Olympians to promote the impact of plant-based diets on the planet. The California-based company has collaborated with former Team US Olympic members and uses traditional cheesemaking processes to create vegan products available in over 20,000 retailers. The company has also won a legal case in California to use dairy-related terms on its products. Dotsie Bausch, a silver medalist and founder of Switch4Good, is promoting plant-based diets at the Tokyo Olympics through the Eat Like An Olympian initiative.

Nineteen-year-old Cade Cunningham, the first draft pick in the NBA, has been chosen by the Detroit Pistons and has also become an ambassador for the vegan egg company Just Egg. Cunningham, who adopted a vegan diet for its health benefits, joins other vegan NBA players like Kyrie Irving, JaVale McGee, Chris Paul, and DeAndre Jordan in promoting plant-based diets. The article highlights the benefits of veganism for athletic performance and overall health, citing studies and endorsements from various athletes.

Alpha Foods has reduced the prices of its vegan chicken nuggets in response to the rising costs of traditional chicken wings in the U.S. The company aims to attract not only vegans but also flexitarians and meat-eaters by making plant-based options more affordable. This strategic move is part of a broader campaign to promote plant-based eating, highlighted by a digital billboard at NASDAQ and a planned full-page ad in The Wall Street Journal. The campaign includes monitoring chicken prices and offering corresponding discounts on their products.

Hello Fresh, a major meal-kit brand in Australia, has expanded its vegan offerings by including carbon-neutral plant-based mince from Fenn Foods. The product, called 'veef', will be featured in the 'Chilli Cin Carne' dish, with more recipes expected soon. Fenn Foods has partnered with Noco2 to offset emissions, aligning with Hello Fresh's sustainability vision. The plant-based meat sector in Australia was valued at AU$185 million in 2020, and the demand is growing, as evidenced by the formation of the Alternative Proteins Council with members like Nestlé Australia and Impossible Foods. Alejandro Cancino, co-founder and CEO of Fenn Foods, has a notable culinary background and has received several awards.

Spanish restaurant and healthy food brand Flax & Kale has launched a significant range of 45 vegan products, including alternative meat and dairy-free cheese options, created by chef Teresa Carles. The brand, owned by Teresa Carles Healthy Foods, aims to lead the plant-based market in Spain, supported by a EUR€2 million investment and a production facility in Lleida. Flax & Kale emphasizes sustainability, earning B Corp certification, partnering with Tree-Nation to offset carbon emissions, and committing to organic and local sourcing. The company plans to expand its restaurant presence in Spain and seeks further investment.

ThredUP, a major online resale apparel platform, is set to acquire European fashion resale firm Remix Global AD as part of its international expansion strategy. The deal, expected to close by Q4 2021 for US$28.5 million, will leverage Remix's operational expertise and technology to tap into Europe's burgeoning secondhand market, projected to grow to US$39 billion by 2025. ThredUP's co-founder and CEO, James Reinhart, expresses optimism for the European market, while Remix will continue to operate independently with CEO Lyubomir Klenov at the helm. The acquisition also aims to extend thredUP's Resale-as-a-Service platform to European consumers, with support already provided to brands like Vera Bradley, FARFETCH, LG, and Madewell.

Immaculate Vegan, a London-based online premium retailer, has raised £400,000 in its first investment round to expand its platform and launch digital marketing campaigns targeting new consumers. The company, founded by Annick Ireland in 2019, offers over 1500 vegan products from 130 brands, focusing on sustainable materials and packaging. With significant sales growth, Immaculate Vegan aims to reach new markets in the U.K., U.S., and Europe. The vegan fashion industry is experiencing a boom, driven by increasing consumer demand for sustainable brands.

Madewell, in partnership with thredUP, has launched 'Madewell Forever', a digital resale platform aimed at extending the life of denim and promoting circular fashion. The initiative is supported by thredUP's Resale-as-a-Service technology, which facilitates the resale of secondhand clothing. The platform offers over 3,000 pre-loved women's jeans, with new styles added regularly. Customers can trade in old jeans for credit towards new Madewell jeans, with the goal of doubling the life of one million pairs of denim by 2023, thereby reducing the carbon footprint of each piece by 82%.

Patagonia, in collaboration with Suay Sew Shop, has launched 'ReCrafted', a new line that upcycles damaged clothes into new products. The initiative aims to reduce waste by transforming clothes that cannot be recycled, resold, or repaired. The collection includes jackets, vests, sweaters, tees, and bags made from used garments sorted at Patagonia's Reno Repair Center. Patagonia has also opened a Worn Wear pop-up in Boulder, Colorado, featuring an on-site repair workshop. The company is recognized for its sustainability efforts and refuses to partner with non-eco-friendly entities.

Lidl, part of the Schwarz retail group, has announced its goal to achieve carbon neutrality by 2022, focusing on reducing CO2 emissions through solar energy and electric vehicle charging points. The company aims to cut operational emissions by 80% by 2030 across its 32 countries of operation. Lidl will also compel suppliers to set their own climate targets by 2026. CEO Christian Härtnagel emphasized the company's responsibility in the fight against climate change. The initiative aligns with other companies like Starbucks, Burberry, and Cathay Pacific, which are also working towards reducing their carbon footprints.

A survey by OnePoll, commissioned by Modern Table, found that 19% of 2,000 U.S. residents have changed their diets significantly in the past five years, with health and dietary needs being the primary driver. The survey indicates a rise in 'vegan-curious' consumers, with one in three respondents identifying as vegan, vegetarian, or flexitarian. Despite this, many still refer to vegan eating as 'rabbit food'. Nick Banuelos of Modern Table argues that vegan diets can be flavorful and nutritionally complete. The survey also highlights that 46% have tried or considered vegan diets, and 60% have attempted cooking vegan food, with a focus on health.

In anticipation of National Marine Week, The Knowledge Academy compiled a list of top nature documentaries based on fan ratings from IMDb and Rotten Tomatoes. The list features 'David Attenborough: A Life on Our Planet' as the top-rated documentary, with Sir David Attenborough advocating for a plant-based diet to combat climate change. Other notable documentaries include 'Our Planet', 'Africa', and 'Kiss the Ground', which address the impact of climate change on ecosystems and promote regenerative agriculture. 'Virunga' and 'My Octopus Teacher' also made the list, highlighting the protection of mountain gorillas and the exploration of marine life, respectively. 'Cowspiracy', 'Seaspiracy', and 'A Plastic Ocean' are recognized for raising awareness about the environmental impacts of animal agriculture and the fishing industry. The list also acknowledges 'There's Something In The Water' and 'RiverBlue' for exposing environmental racism and the fashion industry's impact on the environment.

Long John Silver’s, a U.S.-based seafood chain, has partnered with Gathered Foods' brand Good Catch Foods to offer plant-based seafood options at select locations in California and Georgia. The menu includes Fish-Free Fillets and Crab-Free Cakes made from a six-legume mix. The partnership aligns with the growing flexitarian trend in the U.S. and aims to reduce environmental impact. Good Catch Foods, known for its plant-based seafood products, has expanded its presence in various retailers and restaurants and has received celebrity backing. The company also collaborates with Mission Blue to protect marine wildlife.

American rock band My Chemical Romance has launched a new vegan and cruelty-free makeup collection in collaboration with HipDot, inspired by their 2010 album 'Danger Days: The True Lives Of The Fabulous Killjoys'. The collection includes various makeup items and is available for pre-order starting July 22, 2021. The band has previously expressed their opposition to animal testing and cruelty. The global vegan cosmetics market is expected to grow significantly, with major markets driving substantial growth.

BMW, through its venture capital firm BMW i Ventures, invested in Natural Fiber Welding (NFW), a company that produces plastic-free, recyclable, and cruelty-free materials such as vegan leather. NFW, founded by chemist Luke Haverhals, is scaling up its production to meet commercial demands and contribute to the decarbonization of the automotive industry. The investment will aid NFW in transitioning from batch processing to full-scale commercial production. BMW Group also plans to collaborate with NFW to meet its sustainability goals, including reducing CO2 emissions in its supply chain. The circular fashion industry, which includes cruelty-free leather, is expected to grow significantly, with a notable preference among U.S. consumers for animal-free leather products.

A study published in Cancer Discovery, involving 900 colorectal carcinoma cases from three U.S. prospective studies, found a type of DNA damage called 'alkylation' linked to high consumption of processed and unprocessed red meat. The research, led by oncologist Marios Giannakis of the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute, identified a mutation signature associated with red meat intake but not with other meats or lifestyle factors. High levels of tumor alkylation damage were observed in patients who consumed over 6 ounces of red meat a day, with these patients having a 47% greater risk of colorectal cancer death. The findings could lead to early detection and new treatments, with a recommendation for a moderate and balanced diet.

Vince, a vegan brand from New Zealand, is producing dehydrated plant-based mince made from vegetables, which offers a more sustainable option by eliminating the need for a chilled supply chain. Founded by Nigel and Debbie Stowe of Olive and Ash, Vince's mince includes ingredients like tomatoes, carrots, and peanuts, and can be rehydrated for use in various dishes. The company, which is part of Sprout Agritech's accelerator program, aims to raise US$300,000 in seed investment to potentially reach US$1.2 million in annual sales. Vince's products are sold in supermarkets and health stores across New Zealand, and the brand is focusing on expanding into the Asian market, where there is a growing demand for alternative proteins.

Musician and animal rights advocate Moby is set to release a vegan cookbook titled 'The Little Pine Cookbook' with 125 recipes from his former restaurant, Little Pine. All proceeds from the book will be donated to help farm animals. Moby, who went vegan in 1987, has a history of philanthropy, having donated profits from his music festival, albums, and memoir to animal rights organizations. He has also sold personal items to support plant-based advocacy groups. Moby collaborates with celebrities and activists to promote veganism and animal rights.

The Federal Court of Australia ruled that the Environment Minister has a duty of care to protect children from the impacts of climate change when approving carbon emission projects. The case involved the proposed Vickery Extension Project by Whitehaven Coal, which would release significant CO2 emissions. Led by student Anjali Sharma and represented by Sister Marie Brigid Arthur, the case argued for the Minister's responsibility under the EPBC Act. Justice Bromberg agreed, stating the Minister must consider the project's impact on children. Although no injunction was granted, the decision could influence future emissions-intensive projects. Internationally, similar climate litigation is occurring, with Royal Dutch Shell being ordered to cut emissions and actions taken in Germany and Singapore for stronger climate policies.

The U.N. Convention on Biological Diversity Secretariat has revealed the first draft of a new Global Biodiversity Framework, which outlines actions through 2030 to protect nature and its services. The framework includes 21 targets and 10 milestones for 2030, aiming for 'living in harmony with nature' by 2050, and guides actions on conservation and protection of at least 30% of the earth's land and oceans. It also addresses the equitable sharing of benefits from genetic resources, the reduction of threats to biodiversity, and the sustainable fulfillment of people's needs. The final draft is expected to be presented at the CBD's COP15 meeting in Kunming, China.

Grazer, a London-based vegan dating app, is outperforming Bumble's friend-finding feature with 20% of its users actively using it compared to Bumble's 3%. This success is attributed to the isolation often experienced by those with dietary restrictions. Studies have shown that food restrictions can lead to increased loneliness and associated health risks. Grazer aims to provide a supportive community for plant-based individuals, with features designed to foster meaningful connections. The app has gained significant traction, with notable endorsements and a growing user base. Other vegan-focused platforms like Veggly and Veganzone are also seeing increased popularity.

Wicked Kitchen, a vegan house brand from Tesco, is launching 25 products in 2,200 U.S. stores including Sprouts, following a successful Series A funding round of $14 million co-led by Unovis Asset Management and NRF Nove Foods. Founded by Derek and Chad Sarno, the brand is known for its vegan ready and frozen meals, and has previously won a 'Best Vegan Range' award from PETA. The expansion into the U.S. market is part of a broader strategy to increase the adoption of plant-based foods globally.

ReThink HK, a business event dedicated to sustainable development, has partnered with Green Monday Group to launch The Green Monday ESG Summit in October. The summit aims to raise awareness about corporate sustainability and will feature a lineup of experts discussing sustainability trends, plant-based innovations, and corporate ESG strategies. The event will be held at the Hong Kong Convention and Exhibition Centre and aims to inspire businesses to adopt sustainable practices. Green Monday, known for its plant-based food innovations through OmniFoods, will play a significant role in the summit. The event's proceeds will be donated to The Green Earth and ImpactHK.

Fabalous, part of Italy-based Coppola Foods, has introduced a vegan 'nutella' alternative made with chickpeas, offering 81% more protein, 43% less saturated fat, and 57% less sugar than traditional spreads. The Organic Hazelnut & Cocoa Spread, which has won several awards, is organic, plant-based, and uses glass packaging. It is available on Amazon and Planet Organic and will be distributed across the U.K. CEO Ernesto Coppola expressed pride in the product's success and the company's commitment to innovation and sustainability.

Next Gen, a Singapore food tech company and maker of the plant-based chicken brand TiNDLE, has raised an additional US$20 million in its extended seed round, bringing the total to US$30 million. The funding will support the company's launch in the U.S. market. TiNDLE's product, developed with nutritional benefits, is currently available in 70 restaurants across Singapore, Hong Kong, and Macau. The company has received backing from investors such as GGV Capital, Bits x Bites, Yeo Hiap Seng, and notable individuals including Chris Yeh and Dele Alli. Next Gen plans to expand into the U.S. within the next 12 months, recruit 50 U.S. employees, and continue its growth in APAC and the Middle East. The company is also preparing for a Series A funding round and a future expansion into Europe.

The Australian Competition and Consumer Commission (ACCC) has denied an application from Humane Farm Animal Care (HFAC) to label animal-based products as ‘Certified Humane’ in Australia. Animal rights organizations like PETA, RSPCA, and Vegan Australia influenced the decision, arguing that the term 'humane' is misleading when applied to products derived from slaughtered animals. The ACCC expressed concerns about misleading consumers and noted that Australian producers already adhere to strict welfare standards. The HFAC's standards were also found to be less stringent than those set by Australian Consumer Law. Additionally, the article mentions a recent controversy involving Queensland senator Susan McDonald, who called for distinct terminology for plant-based products instead of using traditional meat-related terms.

The European Commission will introduce legislation by the end of 2023 to ban the use of cages in animal agriculture, affecting 300 million animals, with a complete phase-out by 2027. This follows the successful

Heura has introduced plant-based chicken nuggets aimed at children, tested positively by the target audience. The nuggets are healthier than traditional options, with fewer ingredients and less saturated fat. Heura aims to save over 1.1 million chickens by the end of 2021 and has secured significant funding to expand its product line and market reach. The nuggets are available in Spain and will roll out globally by Q4 2021.

Razer, a gaming lifestyle company, has partnered with ClearBot, an ocean waste cleaning enterprise, to develop an AI robot capable of identifying and collecting marine plastic waste. The collaboration is part of Razer's #GoGreenWithRazer sustainability roadmap, which includes supporting startups like ClearBot. The robot, powered by solar energy, can collect up to 250 kg of plastics per cycle. Razer has also partnered with Conservation International to protect trees and has committed to running on renewable energy by 2025 and achieving carbon neutrality by 2030.

Umiami, a Paris-based startup, has raised €2.3M in seed funding to develop textured whole-muscle cuts of vegan meat using a proprietary texturization technology called umization. Founded by Tristan Maurel, Martin Habfast, and Hugo Dupuis, the company aims to replicate the fibrous texture of meat using vegetables. The funding round included investments from Newfund, Kima Ventures, and several business angels, with additional debt financing from bpifrance, Société Générale, and CIC. Umiami plans to scale its technology, protect its intellectual property, and begin pilot production of various plant-based meat alternatives by early 2022, with industrial production expected to start in June 2023.

Nzambi Matee, a material scientist in Kenya, has innovated a way to transform plastic waste into durable building bricks. Nairobi produces a significant amount of plastic waste, with only a small fraction being recycled. The Dandora landfill, one of Africa's largest unregulated sites, is overwhelmed with waste. Matee's company, Gjenge Makers, uses post-industrial and post-consumer plastic waste to produce bricks that are stronger and more durable than traditional bricks. These bricks have been used in various construction projects, including pathways in the Mukuru Slums Development Project. The Kenyan Bureau of Standards has certified the pavers, and Matee has been recognized by the UNEP as a Young Champion of the Earth. She plans to collaborate with construction companies to expand the use of her products and believes in recycling plastic within its country of origin to create housing and employment opportunities.

Vegan confectionery brand Yumy Bear, founded by Erica Williams, will begin trading on the Canadian Securities Exchange with a valuation of US$50 million. The Vancouver-based company offers low-sugar, vegan gummy candies and aims to disrupt the multibillion-dollar jellies and gummies industry. Yumy Bear has secured over US$2.5 million in funding and plans to expand to the U.S. market in 2022. The company is also involved in sustainable initiatives, including a beach clean-up and a partnership with the Northern Lights Wildlife Society.

Unilever is set to expand its refill and reuse program across the UK, aiming to mitigate plastic waste in the consumer goods industry. This initiative is part of the company's broader efforts to promote environmental sustainability.

Kylie Jenner has revamped her beauty brand, Kylie Cosmetics, to feature an all-new vegan makeup range, including lip gloss and eyeliner. The brand, known for its liquid lipsticks and liners, was previously valued at around $900 million. Traditional makeup often contains animal-based ingredients, but Jenner's brand was always cruelty-free. Influenced by her half-sisters Kim and Kourtney Kardashian, who have reduced their meat intake, Jenner announced the brand's makeover to her 200 million Instagram followers. The new vegan products include a matte lip line, high gloss, lip kits, waterproof gel eyeliners, lip liners, and lip blushes. Other celebrities like Jada Pinkett Smith, Selena Gomez, and Priyanka Chopra Jonas have also launched vegan beauty lines.

Aleph Farms, an Israeli cellular agriculture startup, has raised $105 million in a Series B funding round led by L Catterton’s Growth Fund and DisruptAD. The company, known for developing meat steaks from non-GMO animal cells, plans to use the capital to scale manufacturing and expand internationally. Aleph Farms has differentiated itself with cultivated whole-muscle cut steaks and aims for a global launch. The funding round also included participation from Skyviews Life Science and major food and meat companies. Aleph Farms is working towards regulatory approval and has partnerships for distribution in Japan and Brazil. The company also has ambitions to produce cultivated meat in outer space.

Sustainable footwear brand nat-2 has partnered with textile innovator Remeant to create the vegan nat-2 Sleek Low sneaker, made from recycled bubble wrap. This collaboration aims to reduce plastic waste and promote innovative recycling methods. The sneakers feature various sustainable materials, including recycled velcro, cork, and PET. The production is done by hand in Italy, and the shoes are priced at $350. Other brands like Gucci and Nike are also exploring sustainable materials for their footwear lines.

Global Food Partners (GFP), a Singapore-based consultancy, is collaborating with global companies to establish responsibly sourced cage-free egg supply chains in Asia. Despite the challenges in the region, GFP aims to empower local farmers and food corporations through training and strategic roadmaps. The initiative includes setting up virtual training courses and model farms in Indonesia and China. GFP has partnered with major corporations like Accor, Club Med, and Grand Hyatt Singapore to promote cage-free egg sourcing. The effort is expected to enhance animal welfare and create sustainable, profitable supply chains.

Swiss vegan meat startup Planted has secured CHF 19 million in a pre-Series B financing round to expand its plant-based meat portfolio and launch new products, including vegan schnitzel and whole cut meats. Investors include Vorwerk Ventures, Gullspång Re:food, and several others, with Swiss footballer Yann Sommer also participating. Planted, a spinoff from ETH Zurich, uses innovative techniques to replicate meat textures and plans to expand into new markets in Q3 and Q4 of this year. The company aims to scale production and test new products with consumers, leveraging strong investor backing.

The Berkeley City Council in California has committed to diverting half of its spending from animal-based foods to plant-based foods by 2024, with a future goal of 100%. This decision, driven by a 16-month advocacy campaign by Direct Action Everywhere and supported by other animal rights groups, aims to address climate change and promote humane treatment of animals. The resolution highlights the significant impact of reducing meat and dairy consumption on greenhouse gas emissions. Mayor Jesse Arreguín emphasized the importance of this step in the city's broader climate efforts. The move aligns with Berkeley's history of progressive environmental actions and reflects a growing trend towards plant-based diets in the U.S.

Icebreaker, a New Zealand-based apparel company, has achieved 91% of its goal to eliminate plastic from its products by using merino wool and plant-based fibers. The company, part of VF Corporation, aims to be completely plastic-free by 2023, despite challenges with remaining synthetic fibers. Icebreaker is also focusing on regenerative agriculture and collaborating with Finnish start-up Spinnova to develop sustainable materials. The company has already eliminated synthetic-heavy styles and introduced plastic-free retail practices.

Delivery Hero, the parent company of Foodpanda, has launched a global Sustainable Packaging Program to provide local restaurants with eco-friendly packaging alternatives. The initiative aims to tackle the plastic crisis by offering 100% plant-based and PFAS-free packaging. The program will pilot in eight countries, including Germany, Singapore, and Hong Kong, with a target of distributing 10 million units by 2022. Delivery Hero has partnered with EcoProducts and BIO-LUTIONS to develop these solutions. The company is also committed to making its operations carbon neutral globally by the end of the year.

The article discusses the concept of carbon taxes and carbon border taxes as measures to combat climate change by holding companies and countries accountable for their greenhouse gas emissions. It explains that carbon taxes impose a fee on companies that burn fossil fuels, while carbon border taxes apply to imported goods that have not been carbon-taxed at the source. The EU's proposal for a carbon border tax by 2023 is highlighted, which aims to prevent 'carbon leakage' and encourage the transition to clean energy. The article also addresses the potential economic impacts, fairness, and effectiveness of such taxes, citing examples from various countries and studies. It suggests that a gradual introduction of carbon taxes, along with wealth transfers and structural changes to economic and trade institutions, could be a way forward for effective climate action.

Marine cultivation startup Yemoja has launched EPS-Revive, a microalgae-derived bioactive component with anti-aging and anti-inflammatory properties, targeting the cosmetics industry. The Israeli company uses a controlled lab environment to produce high-quality algae without chemicals, ensuring a consistent supply. CEO Erez Ashkenazi emphasizes the demand for natural, chemical-free cosmetics, while CTO Dr. Amikam Bar-Gill highlights the protective benefits of EPS-Revive. Clinical trials in Poland support its efficacy, and Yemoja plans further research. The article also mentions Sophie’s Bionutrients, a Singapore-based firm innovating with algae-based food products.

A survey by AlixPartners reveals that nearly half of Chinese consumers value a healthy lifestyle, but only a quarter spend on healthy products due to high prices. The survey, which included responses from consumers in China, France, Germany, Italy, the U.K., and the U.S., highlights price as the main barrier to purchasing healthier products. Other barriers include lack of knowledge, availability, and taste. The demand for healthier options is particularly high in categories like prepared meals, dairy and egg alternatives, and meat alternatives. Brands are encouraged to focus on health and wellness to meet consumer demand.