News

January 2021 felt like an especially tumultuous month in what has been a tumultuous time. In the midst of it all, the Presidential Inauguration was a bright spot that reminded me of the resilient spirit of America that cannot be broken. It was encouraging to see members of both major political parties come together for this great American tradition, embracing a moment of unity that has been sorely missed by many Americans, including myself.

The new year is here, and I’m sure you share in my hope that some of the challenges facing America and the world come to resolution in 2021. If there’s anything we’ve learned in the past year, it’s that we can’t take our time on Earth for granted. Every passing moment is another chance to turn things around, even in the smallest way. This year, I encourage you to think of something you’ve perhaps been scared to try, and do it. Be bold. Be brave.

It feels inadequate to say that 2020 has been a difficult year for many of us. You don’t need me to recount the news of the year to know that it’s felt like a real punch in the gut much of the time. Gratitude has really gotten me through this year – gratitude for my health, for my family, for the Brightmark team, and for work that’s meaningful and creates a better world.

At Brightmark, the scale of our ambition is great. Our team is deeply focused on doing important work that solves our planet’s most pressing environmental challenges, including climate change and plastic pollution.

A few weeks ago, I penned an open letter to Burger King, in response to the burger chain’s recent #CowsMenu advertising campaign, which aimed to bring attention to their efforts to reduce the greenhouse gas footprint of the beef they serve. I actually commended Burger King because it’s not often an American fast food chain takes a stand when it comes to a major environmental issue.

This past July, the plastics industry lost a pioneer in the field of recycling plastic waste when Dr. Richard Schwarz (“Dick” to those who knew him well) passed away.

By now it has become quite obvious that Brightmark is dedicated to solving the planet’s massive post-use plastic disposal problem.

And one of those waste problems has been staring us in the face for a long time. In fact, you’ve probably seen it yourself, but failed to notice the issue. But the next time you drive by a marina, pay attention to how much shrink wrap covers the boats in dry dock.

Above all else, I truly believe we are in this together. During this time of extenuating challenges, it is unity, inclusion and teamwork that make me feel most inspired and optimistic about the future.