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 has three goals: reducing the risks inherent in using coal to generate electricity; reducing the risks associated with hydraulic fracturing to obtain natural gas; and promoting sustainable, responsibly managed cleantech alternatives to our energy needs.

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 electric utilities, and natural gas producers, offers solutions to reliance on toxic materials for energy and electronics production.

>>Recent media clippings for our Cleantech initiative

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 initiative

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, making it critical that gas producers drill in a responsible manner. As You Sow has engaged companies to report on the community impacts associated with fracking.

>>Recent media clippings for our Fracking initiative