In this section we have gathered some of the most popular information sources, such as trade journals, magazines, blogs, and association websites. Industry information is always changing. For the latest news, current issues and popular opinions, try following one or more of these sources. In addition, interacting with the websites that provide this information through commenting and asking questions may also provide you with more information.
Associations
Trade associations often publish free industry newsletters that are excellent sources of information for your business plan. Such newsletters often have articles that cover in-depth topics on business management, manufacturing practices, how-tos, and current industry news.
- British Columbia Environmental Industry Association (BCEIA | The BCEIA offers a diverse range of expert knowledge on the business of minimizing, mitigating and defending shared human and natural environments from human activity.
- Globe Foundation | The GLOBE Foundation is a Vancouver-based, not-for-profit organization dedicated to finding practical business-oriented solutions to the world's environmental problems.
- BC Sustainable Energy Association (BCSEA) | BCSEA partners with government, community, business and academic groups to promote the research, development and implementation of low-carbon technologies in British Columbia.
- Climate Action Network Canada (CAN) | CAN is composed of member organizations committed to: preventing dangerous levels of human interference with the global climate system, protecting environmental sustainability and public health, and upholding principles of just transition, equity and social justice.
- Network for Business Sustainability (NBS) | The NBS is a network of academic and business leaders organized by the Ivey Business School in London, Ontario. They produce resources on incorporating sustainability into office culture and business practices.
- Vancouver Island Green Business Collective | Members of this group receive certification after taking concrete action to make their business more earth-friendly.
- Canadian Business for Social Responsibility (CBSR) | A professional association for Canadian businesses whose members share values of social responsibility and sustainability.
TIP: Use ASAE Gateway to Associations Directory to search for an association by name, interest area, or international geographic location (including Canada and BC). You can also search using a combination of various fields.
Magazines & Trade Journals
Trade journals (often called magazines or trade publications) can be very useful in helping you find current articles relating to business research. Contact your local research library to determine which trade journal subscriptions they have. There are also free trade publications that you can access online.
- GreenMoney Journal | A publication that encourages and promotes the awareness of socially & environmentally responsible business, investing and consumption.
- GreenBiz | "GreenBiz advances the opportunities at the intersection of business, technology and sustainability. Through its websites, events, peer-to-peer network and research, GreenBiz promotes the potential to drive transformation and accelerate progress — within companies, industries and in the very nature of business."
- Ecology and Society | Canadian academic journal that publishes articles on the relationship between environmental issues and society. Focused on articles that are accessible to a wide audience and feature both theoretical and practical work.
- Environmental Building News | A monthly newsletter featuring comprehensive, practical information related to sustainable building. Topics covered range from energy efficiency and recycled-content materials to land-use planning and indoor air quality.
- Sustainable Business Magazine | An industry publication with both print and online options, focused on sustainable business practices.
TIP: Try searching Ulrichs Periodical Directory to develop a list of important trade publications in your industry.
Consultant & Other Websites
- BusinessGreen | An online news outlet focused on green business.
MarketWatch - Industry Analyzer | The Industries section contains current data on Dow Jones Industry Sectors. Aggregate data as well as company-specific data is available.
PriceWaterhouse Coopers Canada (PwC) | Global consultancy firm that produces reports on the state of various industries.
- The retail landscape of the future: Appeal to the eco-conscious consumer
- The reality and rewards of sustainability
- Shifting consumer demands in grocery
- Environmental sustainability becoming a business imperative
Firsthand | A free source of industry information. Use the Industry Profiles to research growing industries and best industries by major, and Company Rankings and Profiles to find news, company information, and industry-specific sample professions. Basic monthly membership is free and offers access to blogs, discussion forums, and job listings.
TIP: As with all sources, news articles and blogs should be carefully evaluated. For information on how to evaluate your information, watch video tutorial Module Five: Using Information Responsibly.