Center for Consumer Freedom

One of the things I get asked about frequently is my decision to be a vegan, which would take me numerous blog posts to explain all the reasons for this lifestyle.

However, one thing that never ceases to surprise me is how successful the Dairy/Meat Industry is at keeping their relationship with Government bodies relatively low profile. The two work very hard to enjoy a mutually beneficial relationship.

Most people are shocked to learn that it is illegal in 13 states to say anything defamatory towards the meat or dairy industry. Even if you're stating an opinion or fact. Just ask Oprah.

Can you think of another industry where it is illegal to say anything, even opinion or fact, that would hurt sales? What about Freedom of Speech? Isn't anyone protecting the consumer?

Good Question. Well, one non profit organizations is the Center for Consumer Freedom that is 'devoted to promoting personal and protecting consumer choices.' They will ensure that consumers have a right to all information so they can make responsible choices.

Oh shit.

Turns out that organization is run off of corporate funds from the companies that the CCF is regulating.

Not all advocacy groups and non profit organizations are corrupt and untrustworthy however many are careful with what they say.

My point is that when it comes to our choices, most people assume that regulations and laws are in place to protect us. Or if something is truly detrimental to our health we would be aware of it by now. Both theories are wrong.

Again the extent to how information regarding the meat and dairy industry is withheld from the public would take many more blogs,....which I will most likely write.

Each and every one of us needs to be responsble and aware of the consequences of our choices, including what we put in our bodies. The owness is on us alone.

Sleeping with the Enemy?

Ok, so the title is a little dramatic but it got your attention didn't it?

One of the problems with greenwashing is that instead of assuring me that I'm purchasing an environmental safe product from a responsible company, I end up not trusting any claim. Even from a trusted grassroots organization.

Case in point: Clorox and The Sierra Club.

As of 2007, Clorox has partnered with The Sierra Club to produce a line of 'green' products called 'Greenworks'.

The Sierra Club website says that the organization is proud to help offer the consumer a variety of safe and green products for household cleaning.

The 'greenness' of these products is debatable; the ingrediants are listed on the side however the word 'natural' is used often which is commonly used to hide harmful but still technically natural ingrediants.

But let's give Clorox and The Sierra Club the benefit of the doubt and assume they are completely green products.

The real issue is that The Sierra Club is now getting a cut of the profits from the products.

Is this a win win situation?: new green products and an environmental group is getting a cut.

However, doesn't this new partnership mean that The Sierra Club will essentially look the other way when it comes to all the other environmentally harmful business practices of Clorox?

A former employee thinks so.

The real problem is that this type of partnership isn't rare and that the public won't know to what extent it is affecting the decisions and campaigns of their environmental watchdog organizations.

It's easy to judge these organizations but it's understandably tempting to accept the cash, look the other way and tackle another environmental issue with the funds.

I'm back baby!

Back and better than ever. Stay tuned.