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November 2008
Capitalism as we know it is broken.
Crony capitalism, the driver of unparalleled environmental
destruction, growing disparities in wealth, and now a looming economic collapse
has turned out to be unable to sustain even itself -- by October of this year
10 million jobs will have been lost; in the U.S. alone 1.2 million lost in the last
month. Forty percent of stock value has vanished -- a $9 TRILLION dollar loss.
Add in the $5 trillion real estate loss and over 14 trillion dollars evaporated.
The
American dream is being foreclosed. The time to change course is now. When Newsweek
recently called me a "green business icon" (I've been called worse)
they spoke to the heart of Natural Capitalism: in this economic crisis, Natural
Capitalism offers not just a better way to do business, but also the path to a
dramatic turnaround. We can transform products, processes, and services
in ways that value and restore natural and cultural heritage; we can generate
good manufacturing jobs, and we can deliver durable competitive advantage.
All the technologies we need are already commercial, and the new wave of clean-tech
innovation brings more every day.
| | | | | For
many years, I've been answering how, in the face of so many challenges, I still
have hope. For the first time this century, it's easy. This crisis offers
the clear imperative to implement the principles of Natural Capitalism. It
is no longer just a good idea -- it's now critical to our children, our communities,
our economy, our environment and our way of life.
| | | | | | | | Thanks
to your help Natural Capitalism Solutions is reframing critical aspects
of the economy:
| | | | | | Presidential
Climate Action Plan: Natural Capitalism Solutions wrote the Economic Case for Climate Protection to
underpin this landmark piece that details what the new President must do in his
first 100 days to profitably protect the climate [link];
Solutions
at the Speed of Business: Natural Capitalism's new web-based tool enables
businesses to implement effective climate solutions [link];
Climate
Protection Manual for Cities: Providing solutions in dozens of communities
implementing comprehensive sustainability programs [link];
Educating
tomorrows leaders in sustainability: Natural Capitalism Solutions is transforming how business
is done through lectures, podcasts, and other public presentations and our formative
work at Presidio School of Management [link];
Restorative
Communities: Natural Capitalism Solutions is working with communities in Colorado to create a replicable
process to achieve authentic sustainability in a decade or less -- carbon neutral
without offsets, abundant clean water, secure sustainable food, zero waste, and
a socially equitable economy;
Implementing Sustainable Corporate Practices:
In 2008 Natural Capitalism Solutions has worked with companies representing three percent of GNP, to help
them implement more sustainable practices;
Reframing capitalism:
Natural Capitalism Solutions is assembling thought leaders from around the world
to spell out how to unleash the new energy economy, transform how business is
done, and implement sustainable prosperity in communities;
| | | | | Natural Capitalism Solutions is the right group at the right time. In addition
to my normal schedule of teaching, speaking and consulting, this September I was
honored to travel to Zurich, Switzerland, to receive the International Sustainability
Pioneer Award (considered by many the Nobel of Sustainability). It is an affirmation
of Natural Capitalism's pioneering role in implementing a more sustainable
future. I wish you could have been there with me, because you made it possible.
| | | | | | | | | | | Change
is always scary. The demise of last century's economy tempts many to pull back
-- to wait and see. That way lies a very grim future. At no time in the 35 years
I have spent working on these issues, have I been more hopeful. Sure, the world
faces spiraling energy prices, climate change, growing poverty, economic instability,
and more. In response we are implementing new ways of doing business that are
more profitable, more conserving of resources, and fundamentally more sustainable.
With your help, Natural Capitalism will bring these tools to companies, communities,
and national global economies.
Please tell me that you will continue to
stand with us by once again including Natural Capitalism Solutions in your 2008
giving by completing the simple, online donation form:
| | | | | | | | | | Feel
free to contact me personally if you have a special project you would like to
support through Natural Capitalism Solutions.
Hunter Lovins and the Natural
Capitalism Staff. P.S.
As a continuing supporter, please consider becoming a "full circle"
donor, by making an ongoing, monthly contribution. As a Full Circle donor, no
matter what level, you will make a critical difference in transforming capitalism.
The process is simple -- just let us know how much you'd like to contribute, and
we'll take care of a monthly credit card donation or electronic funds transfer.
Just call 1-866-554-6550 to get started.
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