Climate is taking on a growing role for voters, research suggests

Climate change will play a bigger role than ever in this year's election, new survey results indicate. It is apparent that that many Americans still feel passionately about enacting policies that protect the environment amid the global coronavirus pandemic, the related national economic crisis and other issues. Democratic candidates in particular are seeing new followers out of the 25% of Americans who are actively working against climate change. Read more at The New York Times…

Nearly half of all meatpacking plant outbreaks are still not accounted for

Only about half of the 400 meatpacking plants flagged for COVID-19 outbreaks in the U.S. have been revealed to the public, and parent companies like Tyson continue to refuse to release comprehensive data that could help communities better navigate the pandemic. While some state officials have deemed the task of tracking cases tied to plants too time consuming, others cite privacy concerns for their lack of action in this regard. Read more at The Counter…

Pandemic canning is so popular, stores are running out of jars and other supplies

The home-cooking trend du jour has morphed from sourdough bread to canning, and shoppers are having a hard time finding jars and lids on shelves due to the surge in demand. One company's canning category is up 600% over last year. Experts say this points to a widespread feeling of insecurity regarding the food supply chain and an expectation of shortages into the winter. Read more at The Washington Post...

Fearing shipping crunch, retailers set earliest-ever holiday sale plans

Target, Best Buy and Kohl's are all moving up winter holiday promotions to as early as October in anticipation of record-high online purchases. Analysts are also saying that starting these promotions earlier could help draw shoppers back into brick-and-mortar locations, which are still largely lacking in foot traffic. Read more at Reuters.…

Seventh Generation’s new line gets rid of all its plastic packaging

Natural cleaning product company Seventh Generation is beginning its shift toward a plastic-free future by launching a new line called Zero Plastic Homecare. To do this, the brand had to rethink its products' formats so they could be adequately protected by a steel container. The company is lauching the line first through sustainability-focused online retailer Grove Collaborative. Read more at Fast Company…