Six Sustainable Startups

Entrepreneurs are best at finding innovative solutions to serious problems. Environmental problems are arguably the root of all social ills and it's exciting to see social entrepreneurs take on the challenge. The 2nd annual OG25 Green Business Startup Competition included 25 finalists ranging from a company redefining the off-shore energy market (wind farms!), to smart sprinkler systems, and a social network for the eco-mom.

The winner of the competition was Zimride, a "rideshare service [that] helps organizations establish easy to use, private, social networks for ridesharing." One of the company's unique angles is to use networks like college campuses and companies to arrange rideshares in "trusted communities," allowing members to search and post ride options including personal cars, shuttles, vanpool, and zipcar. It's also marketed for events (so perhaps the line to get in to Burning Man next year will be 7 hours and not 8 if enough people try it?) Already in use at UCLA, Stanford, University of Michigan, and USC, Zimride has proven to engage 10-20% of student populations and integrates with facebook and Twitter. Since I don't have a car and I'm not part of a campus or corporate network, I'm planning to test out their free public rideshare option, which is (probably) safer than hitchhiking and faster than the bus.

These finalists also caught my eye:

• Airbnb is an upgraded version of couch surfing that matches private residences with travelers. A friend of mine recently used the service to stay in a mountain-top vineyard cottage with an ocean view. I intend to advertise my less exotic, but just as friendly, couch and air mattress in my living room if you ever need a place to stay in LA.
• ecoATM is an "automated eCycling station." In my experience, most ewaste recycling centers do not currently have the capacity to provide convenient drop offs. This solves the problem: how should I dispose of my broken phone charger after 5 p.m. (that was intentionally built to last no longer than 5 years so I'll buy another one) and get money for it?
• GoodGuide, Inc. rates over 65,000 non-toxic and environmentally-friendly products and helped me determine that there is a better toothpaste than the one I'm currently using (but mine is second best). Also, the company is a B Corporation.
• Soleo Organics makes the highest rated sunscreen by the Environmental Working Group. I tried it this weekend for several hours in the intense LA sun and I was well-protected.
• ThinkEco makes a product they've coined the "modlet" for "modern electrical outlet". Plug your electronics into the modlet and "then use your web browser to wirelessly monitor and manage your power consumption." It should save you 10-20% on your electricity bill.

The conference also hosted a Green Product Design Competition. All 50 companies/products are worth a review for inspiration to all you social entrepreneurs out there. I'll say it again: You are the best at finding solutions where others see problems. You thrive on it. So go, create, and introduce yourself to me at next year's OG25.

Photo Credit: opportunitygreen