Rainforest Alliance Supports Sustainable Farming
The Rainforest Alliance is launching a new Regenerative Agriculture certification later this year, addressing the urgent need to restore degraded farm soil and ecosystems. Built on years of experience, this standard will offer a credible framework for farmers and businesses focused on soil health, biodiversity, and climate resilience. Consumers can look forward to choices that support a healthier planet.
Proposal for Vegan Milk in Schools Gets Bipartisan Support
The recently proposed bipartisan FISCAL Act proposes including plant-based milk in school lunches primarily to address lactose intolerance, which disproportionately affects students of color. While this shift could yield a significant environmental benefit by reducing methane emissions from dairy production, bill supporters are emphasizing health advantages, signifying a shift in appealing to an administration that is not currently focused on environmental initiatives.
Gates’ Climate Group Cuts Operations
Bill Gates’ Breakthrough Energy announced deep cuts to its European unit and U.S. policy team in March. Insiders suggest this retooling reflects the diminished likelihood of federal climate policy progress under the current administration. While a spokesperson affirms Gates’ ongoing commitment to clean energy innovation, these cuts mark a notable change in his climate philanthropy strategy.
The Change Climate Project Introduces Certification
In late 2024, The Change Climate Project (TCCP) announced the launch of its 2025 Standard and The Climate Label. Used as a replacement to the Climate Neutral Certified label, the designation helps businesses address their carbon emissions and alert consumers to companies that engage in verified climate initiatives. REI is among the first to pursue the new certification.
March 2025 Sees Record Low Arctic Sea Ice
In March, Arctic sea ice reached its lowest extent on record, continuing a four-month trend of record lows. Global temperatures also remained alarmingly high, making it the second-hottest March ever recorded. Experts warn these trends signal accelerating climate change, with severe impacts on ecosystems and weather patterns worldwide.
