Energy generation in the U.S. is a major source of air, water, and land pollution and poses serious threats to public health and the environment. As You Sow's energy program focuses on building safe cleantech and two of the nation's most prominent fossil fuel-based energy sources: coal and natural gas.

Cleantech
As You Sow's Cleantech initiative works to ensure that this relatively new industry is not only clean, but green. Our goal is to provide information about cleantech whose products are produced with sustainable manufacturing, green chemistry, and transparent sourcing, procurement, and governance practices.This initiative, which stemmed from our years of engagement with electronics manufacturers and fossil fuel-reliant energy companies, offers solutions to reliance on toxic materials for energy and electronics production.

Coal
As You Sow's Coal initiative began to engage electric power generators on the hazards associated with coal combustion waste and increase disclosure of management practices. The effort has evolved to a broader campaign within the coal-fired utility sector urging companies to analyze the financial risks of continued reliance of coal and to begin the transition plan to cleaner energy.

>>Recent media clippings for our coal program

Hydraulic Fracturing (Fracking)
Natural gas, which is touted as a cleaner alternative to coal, faces its own set of risks. Hydraulic fracturing (fracking), the method used to extract natural gas, has been linked to a host of water quality and environmental health impacts. As we transition away from dirtier energy sources, natural gas will play an increasingly important role. As You Sow has engaged companies to disclose their policies for reducing environmental and financial risks from the use of chemicals, water impacts, and other environmental issues associated with fracking.

>>Recent media clippings for our fracking program