As You Sow

As You Sow is a non-profit organization founded by Thomas P. Van Dyck and Michael Marx in 1992 with the goal of promoting corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability through shareholder activism. As You Sow works with institutional investors, such as pension funds and endowments, to engage with corporations like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips on issues like climate change, water pollution, and human rights. The organization is based in Oakland, California and has worked with various non-governmental organizations (NGOs) like Sierra Club, Natural Resources Defense Council, and Environmental Defense Fund.

● Introduction

As You Sow's work is centered around the idea that corporate governance and social responsibility are essential for creating a more sustainable and equitable society. The organization's approach involves working with investors like CalPERS, CalSTRS, and TIAA-CREF to file shareholder resolutions and engage in dialogue with companies like Walmart, McDonald's, and Coca-Cola on issues like labor rights, supply chain management, and environmental stewardship. As You Sow has also collaborated with academic institutions like Harvard University, Stanford University, and University of California, Berkeley to research and develop new strategies for promoting corporate accountability and sustainability.

● History

As You Sow was founded in 1992 by Thomas P. Van Dyck and Michael Marx, who were inspired by the work of Ralph Nader and other consumer advocates. The organization's early work focused on issues like toxic waste and pollution, and it quickly gained recognition for its innovative approach to shareholder activism. Over the years, As You Sow has worked with a wide range of organizations and individuals, including Greenpeace, Rainforest Action Network, and Bill McKibben, to promote environmental sustainability and social justice. The organization has also been involved in various coalitions and networks, such as the Interfaith Center on Corporate Responsibility and the Social Investment Forum, to advance its mission and objectives.

● Mission_and_Objectives

As You Sow's mission is to promote corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability through shareholder activism and research. The organization's objectives include improving corporate governance, enhancing environmental sustainability, and promoting social justice and human rights. As You Sow works to achieve these objectives by engaging with companies like General Electric, Procter & Gamble, and 3M on issues like climate change, water conservation, and labor rights. The organization also collaborates with investors like Vanguard, BlackRock, and State Street Global Advisors to promote sustainable investing and responsible investment practices.

● Programs_and_Initiatives

As You Sow has launched several programs and initiatives over the years to promote corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability. The organization's Fossil Fuel Program works to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and promote renewable energy by engaging with companies like Peabody Energy, Arch Coal, and Alpha Natural Resources. As You Sow's Waste Program focuses on reducing waste and promoting sustainable packaging by working with companies like Procter & Gamble, Unilever, and Coca-Cola. The organization's Human Rights Program works to promote human rights and labor rights by engaging with companies like Apple, Nike, and Gap Inc..

● Impact_and_Achievements

As You Sow has achieved significant impact and success over the years through its shareholder activism and research efforts. The organization has worked with companies like ExxonMobil, Chevron, and ConocoPhillips to improve their environmental sustainability and social responsibility practices. As You Sow has also collaborated with investors like CalPERS, CalSTRS, and TIAA-CREF to promote sustainable investing and responsible investment practices. The organization's work has been recognized by various organizations and individuals, including Sierra Club, Natural Resources Defense Council, and Al Gore.

● Criticisms_and_Controversies

As You Sow has faced criticisms and controversies over the years, particularly from companies and industry groups that have been targeted by the organization's shareholder activism efforts. Some companies like ExxonMobil and Chevron have pushed back against As You Sow's efforts to improve their environmental sustainability and social responsibility practices. The organization has also faced criticism from some investors and financial analysts who argue that its approach to shareholder activism is too aggressive or confrontational. Despite these criticisms, As You Sow remains committed to its mission and objectives, and continues to work with companies, investors, and NGOs like World Wildlife Fund, The Nature Conservancy, and Oxfam to promote corporate social responsibility and environmental sustainability.

Category:Environmental organizations