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Giel Boes, who grew up in Heibloem, wants to 'see the forest for the trees'. This is the motto of the foundation he started to plant a tree for every Dutch citizen, a total of 18 million. The count currently stands at 120,000.

Eindhoven It's not something he can just say to anyone without risking laughter, he thinks, but it happened to him in 2011, completely unexpectedly, in America, during his umpteenth business trip as a young (then 23) and successful IT 'nerd', who was doing good business on an hourly basis at ASML in his new hometown of Eindhoven.

When the initiator of the Boes Bos Foundation talks about the two decades between the ages of fourteen and thirty-four, this is the picture: a smart and handy all-rounder, infinitely active in the world of IT, expensive restaurants and hotels, working half-nights, the world at his feet, multiple companies.

But that one business trip to America, in 2011. Well-fed, well-rested, in short: he was there, seriously, both physically and mentally, in top shape at that moment, nothing wrong. Then I suddenly saw how my hand, without my will, picked up a pen and started writing, completely automatically," says Giel Boes (36) now, thirteen years later. In this way, a kind of mission had suddenly appeared on paper: 'Make the earth greener'. "But in English. Because I was in America, so

I was completely in that language." Boes grew up in freedom, in the nature of the outskirts of Heibloem. And now he had been given this mission, something that, due to the pace of life, had faded into the background again, until he thought in 2020: things have to change, I have to do something about this.

He set himself the goal of planting a million trees, mainly through donations to groups that were actually planting trees in the field. He started working on it, full throttle, as he seems to do everything - he calls himself an ADHD sufferer and a 'bouncer' for a reason. And he shared his actions on social media and got a response.

 

Giel Boes founded a foundation with a quality label to help like-minded donors make donations, the Boes Bos Foundation. Some donated ten euros, others five thousand euros. His personal mission is still to plant a million trees. The foundation's mission goes further: one tree for every Dutch citizen.

Boes thinks that 30 million euros is needed to achieve that goal. More than a million euros is collected each year. Boes lists what donors get for 5 euros: 1 new tree abroad, 1 new tree in their own country, 1 square meter of food forest in their own country.

 

The Boes Bos Foundation focuses on the four Bs: protecting trees, planting trees, promoting biodiversity and awareness. With the last B, Boes tries to inspire people to live more consciously with the climate. Now, almost four years after its founding, 25 people work for the foundation. The board members work voluntarily, as do the fundraisers, the accountant, the external controller, the web builder and designer, as well as the marketers. Interested? Then take a look at boesbos.nl

 

Written by Jacqui Stroucken

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The Solution to the Climate Problem:

When I was 20 (in 1992) and in America, I had a dream where I saw myself solving the CO2 problem. A strange dream, of course, because CO2 wasn't really an issue back then, although the problems were predicted. Somehow, this dream was clearer than ever.

On the return flight o the Netherlands, I realized the problem started with me and decided, perhaps as one of the first Dutch people ever, that I would never fly again, as it's extremely harmful to the world. At that time, I told everyone I no longer wanted to fly, and everyone laughed at me, saying I had a fear of flying, etc. I let them be. People love to pigeonhole you. Nowadays, they call me 'woke' because I write about CO2 and the climate, which is quite strange (although it's only a small group).

In 2020, I woke up after nine days in a coma following a cardiac arrest (you only have a 1% chance of recovering well from that). Then I realized I might not have much time left to 'make my dream come true' and dedicated myself to it full-time. With many difficult consequences, but I'll spare you those.

Since I'm not a climate scientist, I had to approach it from a different angle. I understand how CO2 works and what it does, but I would never claim to know more than climate scientists. They are the experts in this field; we should listen to them.

I've been thinking about it for 32 years, and in January 2024, I had another dream. You could say the solution literally originated in my dream. After my cardiac arrest, I don't think I've ever dreamed again. But that night, I dreamed about the Templar Belt of Atlantis. That night, the solution for the climate/CO2 problem was conceived.

Unbelievable but true, the dreamed-up solution had been found. I wrote it down immediately. I had already written three parts, but this is part IV, which contains the solution. I didn't literally see the solution in my dream, but through a lot of thinking, I arrived at it. You can read about that dream in one of the (other parts), at least through Elena's vision.

The world couldn't wait any longer. That's why this book is being published first. The world deserves the solution that starts with you today. Talk about it with everyone you know and encourage them to read my book, not for me, but for yourself, your (grand)children, and the world. Humanity deserves a solution! Why did I come up with the solution? Why did I dream that I would come up with the solution and always strive to find it? Just like you, I have no idea, but the solution is there. Let's start a societal discussion and force politicians to implement this solution. Enjoy the read.

Want to read "The Templar Belt of Atlantis" in English? Email support@boekscout.nl and let them know you'd love to see an English translation!

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Scientists Block Highway: A Clear Signal to the World

In a remarkable action, members of Extinction Rebellion, including a group of sixty scientists, have blocked a Dutch highway. Scientists, you might think? Indeed! This large-scale involvement of scientists has captured the nation's attention and contributed to ongoing discussions about the climate crisis. But why would scientists, typically working in ivory towers, engage in such a direct action?

The support of scientists for an Extinction Rebellion action is a powerful signal. It shows that the climate crisis is a problem that concerns not only activists but also experts from various fields. By joining forces, they emphasize the urgency of acting now.

The choice of a highway as the location for the protests is deliberate. Cars are one of the biggest contributors to CO2 emissions, and by paralyzing traffic, activists aim to highlight our dependence on fossil fuels. Moreover, the highway symbolizes our modern, consumerist society, which, according to activists, comes at the expense of nature.

The message from scientists and Extinction Rebellion is clear: the climate crisis is an emergency. We must take drastic measures now to prevent the worst consequences. By blocking the highway, they aim to draw attention to the urgency of the problem and the need for a rapid transition to a sustainable society. However, often people are merely annoyed by the delays and do not always consider the underlying CO2 issue.

The action by Extinction Rebellion and the scientists hopefully gives society a real wake-up call. It has made us think about our own role in the climate crisis and the choices we make every day. It is up to all of us to decide whether we want to listen to the warnings of science and work together for a better future.

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Does Formula 1 Have a Future in a Sustainable World?

Introduction

Formula 1 is a sport that has captivated millions of fans worldwide for decades with its speed, technology, and glamour. But in an era of growing concern over climate change and environmental protection, the question arises: Does Formula 1 still have a future?

The Enormous Environmental Footprint of F1

From a scientific perspective, Formula 1 has a significant environmental footprint. Teams travel with their expensive cars and hospitality setups to circuits around the world by cargo plane. Drivers often fly to races in private jets. And then there are the tires, which are worn out by the hundreds at each race weekend.

According to calculations, the CO2 emissions of a single Formula 1 weekend are equivalent to those of 2,600 average cars. The total emissions of the sport in 2022 are estimated at 500,000 tons of CO2.

Steps Towards Sustainability

Formula 1 recognizes the need to become more sustainable and has taken steps in this direction. For example, in 2022, new regulations were introduced that promote the development of hybrid engines. From 2026, the engines will use 10% biofuel.

Work is also being done on other measures, such as using sustainable materials, reducing waste, and offsetting CO2 emissions.

Is it Enough?

From a scientific standpoint, however, it is debatable whether these steps are enough. The hybrid engines are still powerful gasoline engines, and the biofuel is not always produced sustainably.

In addition, teams are still not fully offsetting the huge CO2 emissions from their travel and activities.

The Future of F1

The future of Formula 1 depends on the sport's ability to adapt to a changing world. If F1 fails to significantly reduce its environmental footprint, it risks losing fans and sponsors.

The sport must find a way to retain the excitement and spectacle that fans love while drastically reducing its environmental impact.

Conclusion

Formula 1 faces a major challenge. The sport must find a way to become more sustainable and remain relevant in an increasingly environmentally conscious world.

Whether F1 has a future depends on the sport's ability to innovate, experiment, and adapt to scientific insights and social developments.

CO2 Credits

If your company is interested in buying CO2 credits to offset its carbon emissions, you can do so through our reputable organization that offers CO2 Credits via https://www.co2.eu/pages/co2-business-credits. These programs support projects that reduce or compensate greenhouse gases from the atmosphere, such as planting trees, investing in renewable energy, and improving energy efficiency.

By purchasing CO2 credits, companies can demonstrate their commitment to sustainability and take responsibility for their environmental impact.

Discussion

What is your opinion on the future of Formula 1? Does the sport have a future in a sustainable world? Share this message if you want to help us reduce CO2 emissions.

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June: 13th Consecutive Month of Temperature Record - A Shocking Reality

It's official: June 2024 was the warmest June ever recorded globally. With an average temperature of 16.66°C (62°F), it surpassed the previous record of June 2023 by 0.14°C (0.25°F). This is more than a statistical anomaly; it's a shocking reality that underscores the urgent need for climate action.

As a concerned citizen and science enthusiast, I am deeply troubled by this ongoing warming trend. June's record heat is just the latest evidence of the undeniable impact of human activities on our planet's climate. Greenhouse gas emissions, particularly CO2, are creating an unwanted greenhouse effect, trapping heat and driving up global temperatures.

The consequences of this warming are already being felt around the world. We are seeing more extreme weather events, such as heat waves, droughts, floods, and wildfires, which are having a devastating impact on ecosystems and societies. Sea levels are rising, threatening coastal areas and displacing millions of people.

It is clear that we can no longer wait to act. We must drastically reduce our CO2 emissions and transition to clean, sustainable energy sources. We must protect our forests and invest in climate-resilient agricultural practices. And we must work together at the international level to set ambitious climate goals and achieve them.

The future of our planet depends on our actions today. We have the knowledge and technology to tackle climate change. Let us now show the courage and determination to take action and create a livable world for future generations.

Are businesses feeling the urgency? They claim to be sustainable, but in practice, they are doing little to nothing. It is high time for businesses to offset their carbon footprint by purchasing carbon credits. This can be done at co2.eu. Will you join us, or will we let our grandchildren pay the heavy price?

This is our shared responsibility. Let's work together to make a difference.

Share this blog post with your friends and family to raise awareness and encourage action. Together, we can change the course of our planet!

#climatechange #globalwarming #CO2 #sustainability #action #future

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Climate Anxiety and Depression: The Burden of the Future on Young Shoulders

The climate crisis is not only a threat to our planet, but also to our mental health. More and more young people are experiencing climate anxiety and depression, plagued by worries about the future and a feeling of powerlessness.

The Rain as a Catalyst

The persistent rain of recent months has made the concerns about climate change more tangible than ever. Floods, mudslides, and destruction caused by extreme weather events bring the consequences of the climate crisis closer to home. This can lead to feelings of anxiety, despair, and even depression, especially among young people who are already more susceptible to mental problems.

A Vicious Cycle

The mental pressure that comes with climate anxiety can lead to avoidance behavior. Young people who are worried about the future may become less motivated to study, work, or engage in social activities. This can in turn lead to social isolation and a worsening of the symptoms of anxiety and depression.

What Can We Do?

It is important to recognize that climate anxiety and depression are real problems that deserve serious attention. We must provide our young people with the necessary support and guidance to cope with these feelings.

Tips:

• Talk about it: Create an open and safe space where young people can express their concerns about the climate crisis.
• Seek professional help: If the symptoms are severe, it is important to seek professional help. There are therapists who specialize in dealing with climate anxiety and eco-anxiety.
• Take action: Involve young people in finding solutions to the climate crisis. This can give them a sense of empowerment and reduce their anxiety.
• Stay hopeful: Despite the challenges, it is important to remain hopeful for a better future. Emphasize the positive impact that individuals and collectives can have in the fight against climate change.

Together we can make a difference. Let's give our young people the support and guidance they need to cope with the pressure of the climate crisis and work together for a sustainable future for all of us.

Sources:

• https://www.imf.org/en/Publications/selected-issues-papers/Issues/2023/03/15/Assessing-Recent-Climate-Policy-Initiatives-in-the-Netherlands-NETHERLANDS-530854
• https://www.psychologytoday.com/us/basics/climate-anxiety
• https://www.thelancet.com/countdown-health-climate

#climatechange #climateanxiety #depression #youth #mentalhealth

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Climate Change: The Rain (Still) Masks the Threat

The recent rains shouldn't lull us into a false sense of security. Often we read on LinkedIn, "it's not even warm," "it's even cold?!" The droughts of recent years were an alarming signal of the climate crisis that is well underway. The science is clear: we only have a few years left to save ourselves from the worst consequences. Many people scoff at this and dismiss it as a hoax.

Facts and Figures: Irrefutable Evidence

• The Earth has already warmed by 1 degree Celsius since the pre-industrial era.
• The nine warmest years on record have all occurred since 1998.
• Human activity, primarily the burning of fossil fuels, is the main cause of this warming.

The Consequences: Already Felt, Soon Catastrophic

We are already seeing the effects of climate change around us:

• Extreme weather events such as droughts, floods, heatwaves, tornadoes (!) and storms are becoming more frequent and severe.
• Sea levels are rising, threatening our coastal areas.
• Plant and animal species are dying out due to changes in their habitats.

If we do not take action, the consequences will be even worse:

• The Earth's temperature could rise by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius by the end of the century. You may not be affected by this, but your descendants will be!
• This could lead to mass migration (what if all of Africa drifts?), food shortages and wars over scarce resources, not a good outlook for humanity.

There is Still Hope: Time for Action!

We have the knowledge and technology to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and adapt to the effects of climate change. What we need now is political will and collective action.

What You Can Do:

• Reduce your carbon footprint: Choose renewable energy, reduce energy consumption, eat a plant-based diet and buy sustainable products.
• Vote for politicians who take climate change seriously.
• Talk about climate change with your family, friends and colleagues.
• Support organizations that are working to combat climate change.

Every little bit helps!

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Drought: The Bitter Reality of Climate Change, Already Here

The sun beats down on the parched earth, as cracks in the ground grow deeper. Rivers that once flowed powerfully now trickle like a meager stream. Drought is not a vision of the future, but the harsh reality already faced by millions of people worldwide. From Africa to Southern Europe, the effects of climate change are relentless. Crops fail, livestock dies, and people lose their homes and livelihoods.

The science is clear: CO2 emissions are the main cause of this crisis. The Earth is warming, causing moisture to evaporate faster and disrupting rainfall patterns. This leads to longer and more extreme droughts, and even in the fall of 2023, it was temporarily extremely wet, with all the disastrous consequences that entails.

A dry future? No, a reality we must address now!

As the drought spreads, many companies remain passive. Greenwashing is popular, but concrete action to reduce their CO2 footprint is often lacking. It's time to wake up! The future of our planet, and with it our economy, is at stake.

Companies, where is your responsibility?

We can no longer turn a blind eye to reality. Drought is not fiction, but an urgent threat that is already affecting millions of people. It is time for companies to take responsibility and take concrete steps to reduce CO2 emissions.

Join CO2.NL and make a difference!

CO2.NL offers companies a concrete solution: CO2 credits. By purchasing these credits, you invest in projects that remove CO2 from the atmosphere and contribute to a sustainable future. This is how you take real responsibility and actively fight against climate change.

Together we can turn the tide!

By investing in CO2 credits and other sustainable initiatives, we can reduce the negative impact of climate change on our planet. Drought is a threat, but also an opportunity. The chance to show that we care about our planet. The chance to work together for a future where water is not a scarce commodity.

Go to our website and buy your CO2 credits now via us at https://www.co2.eu/pages/co2-business-credits. Together we can stop the drought!

#drought #climatechange #CO2credits #corporateresponsibility #strongertogether #future

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CO2 Emissions: A Crime Against the Future

The numbers are alarming: CO2 emissions continue to rise, while time is running out to prevent irreversible damage to our climate. Scientists are unanimous: we need to take drastic action. Yet, despite promises and targets, many companies seem to be in no hurry to go green. Is it time to start considering the directors of these companies as criminals?

The consequences of climate change are already palpable:

• Extreme weather events
• Rising sea levels
• Mass extinction of plant and animal species

Scientists warn that we must meet the 1.5 degree Celsius target set in Paris to avoid the worst consequences. But the current course is not taking us there. Companies, with their massive CO2 footprint, bear a significant responsibility in this area. A few weeks ago, it was even 15 degrees warmer than normal in Spain.

Many companies set ambitious climate goals, but the reality is often different.

Investments in sustainability are lagging behind, lobbying against stricter legislation continues, and profit maximization takes precedence over planetary preservation. Is this not comparable to ignoring safety regulations with disastrous consequences, or deliberately polluting our living environment?

Current rules and sanctions are proving inadequate.

Companies get away with minimal fines, while the costs to society are gigantic. Is it not then justified to hold the directors of companies that structurally emit too much CO2 personally liable? Just as we prosecute the managers of polluting factories or organizations that hide toxic waste discharges, the same strictness should apply to those who put our climate and our planet at stake.

Of course, this is a complex issue.

Companies play an important role in our economy and employment. We don't want to chase them away just like that. But we can't just stand by and watch as they sacrifice our future for short-term profits. Companies that refuse to take responsibility must face tough sanctions. We must force them to go green, and if they refuse, we must treat them as criminals.

This is not a plea for populism or hostility to business.

It is an urgent call to action. We are on the verge of a tipping point. The time for half-measures is over. We need a radical transformation, and it starts with holding accountable those with the most power and influence.

The future of our planet depends on our courage to say loud and clear:

Those who deliberately destroy our living environment must not go unpunished. CO2 emissions are not an abstract problem, they are a crime against the future. And crime should not pay.

In addition to the criminal justice aspect, there is also a broader need for change.

We need to reform our economy towards a sustainable model, where profit is no longer more important than well-being and planetary preservation. We need to invest in green technologies, clean energy, and a circular economy. And as consumers, we need to make conscious choices and put pressure on companies to take responsibility.

The path to a sustainable future will not be easy.

But we have no choice. We must work together, with governments, businesses, and citizens, to effect a course change. The future of our planet depends on it.

This column is intended to stimulate discussion and provoke thought.

It is not a complete or elaborate plan, but a starting point for a necessary societal debate. CO2 emissions are too important to be left to the interests of a few. Let's work together to create a just and sustainable future for ourselves and generations to come.

#ClimateCrisis #CO2Crime #Sustainability #CorporateResponsibility #CriminalLaw #FutureGenerations #CO2.EU

For more information about a greener society, please also visit the following websites:

https://www.groenezaken.com/zoeken?query=co2)
https://duurzaam-bedrijfsleven.nl/zoeken?term=co2)
https://duurzame-blogs.com/zoeken?term=co2)
https://stoeries.nl/zoeken?term=co2)

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As a concerned father and owner of CO2.eu, I'm here to tell you: there is hope.

As a concerned father, I know all too well the fear and uncertainty that climate change can bring. I see it in my children's eyes when they hear about extreme weather events, and I feel it in my own heart when I worry about the future of our planet.

But I also know that there is hope. I've spent years thinking about a solution to the climate crisis and CO2 emissions. I've poured my heart and soul into a book that I believe can make a real difference.

In my book, I lay out a comprehensive plan to address not only climate change, but also a host of other global challenges, including plastic pollution, energy poverty, and food insecurity, and much more. I call these solutions the "New Ten Commandments," and they offer a roadmap to a more sustainable and equitable future for all. The book is written as a thriller. I give away the ideas for free and use the proceeds from the book to further develop CO2.EU.

I know that some people may be skeptical. They may say that there is no solution to the climate crisis, or that even if there is, it's too late to implement it. But I believe that we can overcome these challenges if we work together.

I'm not asking you to take my word for it. I encourage you to read my book and judge for yourself. I'm also asking you to share this message with your friends and family. The more people who know about these solutions, the sooner we can start to put them into action.

I'm also looking for a publisher to help me get my book into the hands of as many people as possible. If you know of any publishers who might be interested, please let me know.

I know that there are many challenges ahead. But I also know that we can overcome them if we work together. Together, we can create a better future for our children and for generations to come.

Join the solution.

Share this post with your friends and family. Visit our website to learn more about our solutions. Contact us if you are interested in publishing our book.

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The Importance of Sustainable Living and Business: An Interview with Jeroen Muis of EnergieSlimAdvies

In a world facing various challenges, from pandemics to geopolitical tensions, the call for sustainable solutions is steadily growing. The pursuit of a greener future is becoming increasingly urgent, with sustainable living playing a crucial role. But what exactly does sustainable living entail, and how can both homeowners and businesses make the right choices?

To delve deeper into this topic, we spoke with Jeroen Muis, the owner of EnergieSlimAdvies, a company dedicated to providing independent and honest advice to homeowners and businesses on sustainability.

The adventure began over three years ago for Jeroen and his company, with the aim of supporting homeowners and businesses in making crucial decisions regarding energy efficiency and sustainability. They have since helped over 3300 households and businesses. "It's all about informing people," Jeroen explains. "Many people are unsure about which measures to take and which investments are really worthwhile. We can help them make informed choices."

One of the most important topics that often comes up during these consultations is the installation of solar panels. "It's not just about saving money," Jeroen emphasizes, "but also about reducing CO2 emissions." He illustrates with an example how installing just 10 solar panels can already reduce CO2 emissions by an average of 1200 kilos. Moreover, it improves the energy performance of the home or business premises, which is not only beneficial for the environment but also for its value in the event of a sale.

Despite recent discussions about the costs that energy companies charge solar panel owners, Jeroen emphasizes that the benefits still outweigh the drawbacks, especially when considering the long-term benefits for the environment and the energy efficiency of the home or business premises.

In addition to solar panels, Jeroen also sees a growing interest in other sustainable solutions, such as energy storage (batteries) and smart heating systems. "It's all about the right advice," he says. "There are many factors that determine which system is the most efficient for a specific home or business, and we help people make those choices."

Jeroen also emphasizes that infrared heating is a sustainable option. "Infrared heating can work on generated wind and solar power, which does not release any CO2," he adds. These systems offer an efficient and environmentally friendly way to heat homes and businesses, contributing to a lower ecological impact.

In addition, Jeroen highlights two more examples of sustainable solutions: infrared heating and insulation.

Infrared heating systems and high-quality insulation can both contribute to reducing CO2 emissions. Infrared heating works on the basis of radiant heat, which makes energy use more efficient, while insulation ensures better retention of heat and coolness, reducing the need for energy.

The increasing demand for customized advice at EnergieSlimAdvies underscores the growing awareness among both homeowners and businesses of the importance of sustainable living. By investing in energy efficiency and renewable energy sources, households and businesses can not only reduce their ecological footprint but also save on their energy costs in the long term.

As director and sustainable living consultant, Jeroen Muis has a clear message for both homeowners and businesses: "Get informed, make informed choices, and contribute to a greener future for all of us."

Do you want to know more about sustainable living and how you can make your home or business more sustainable? Then be sure to visit the EnergieSlimAdvies website and make an appointment for a customized consultation. Together we can build a more sustainable world!

Jeroen is a partner of co2.eu and possesses a wealth of knowledge.

www.energieslimadvies.nl

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If CO2 Smelled Like Poop

Imagine this: you step outside on a crisp morning. The sun is shining, the birds are singing, and in the distance, you smell... poop. But not just any poop, the pungent stench of CO2.

With every breath, you become aware of the invisible threat that surrounds us. The smell is everywhere: in the busy streets, in the fresh air of the park, even in your own home. CO2 is no longer invisible, it is unmistakable.

The impact is immediate. People are shocked, confronted with the reality of climate change. The smell is a constant reminder of the damage we are doing to our planet.

The poop smell of CO2 would revolutionize everything. Politicians are forced to take action. Citizens demand change. Businesses invest in green technologies.

The unnoticed threat becomes an urgent reality. We cannot ignore the smell, we cannot ignore the consequences. We must act.

In a world where CO2 smells like poop, there is no time to lose. We tackle the problem at its roots, with innovative solutions and a rock-solid commitment to a better future.

The smell of poop is a wake-up call, a powerful motivator to save our planet. In this new reality, there is no more denial, no procrastination. We stand together, and we fight for a cleaner, healthier world.

The future is in our hands, and it smells like change.

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