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Definition: Earth Positive

Sunset at the confluence between the Susitna and Chulitna rivers in Talkeetna, AK. Copyright Pike Origin LLC.

What is Earth Positive?

Definition

Earth Positive is a term that describes a resilient individual, business, or organization that enhances the well-being of its cumulative environment. The cumulative environment may include both the natural and social environment where it exists. The subject that maintains an “Earth Positive” effect is both transparent and accountable for its actions.

Example used in a sentence

Matt is on a mission to become earth positive through his efforts to reduce his consumption and proactively contribute to his local community by leading community clean up efforts.

Why is this definition important?

This concept builds upon existing climate discourse as it pertains to the definitions of “climate positive” or “carbon negative,” which focuses only on greenhouse gas emissions.  Although an important definition, when discussing climate and business goals there is more to the discussion than simply greenhouse gas emissions, there are also important considerations in other environmental, social, and cultural impacts of a decision. Specifically, some considerations in the physical world are water and air quality, biodiversity, and there are also human factors such as equality and justice. 

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Note: This is a working definition that was developed using internal research methods and analysis and was published after undergoing the Pike Origin Peer Review Process.

Sources:

Earth.org, “Climate Terms: The Difference Between ‘Carbon Neutral’ and ‘Climate Neutral’”, Published by Earth.org 26 February 2021. URL: https://earth.org/difference-between-climate-terms/

Eillie Anzilotti, “Climate positive, carbon neutral, carbon negative: What do they mean?”, Published by Fast Company & Inc © 2023 Mansueto Ventures, LLC. 13 June 2018. URL: https://www.fastcompany.com/40583176/climate-positive-carbon-neutral-carbon-negative-what-do-they-mean

Carbonneutral.com, “The CarbonNeutral Protocol”, Published by © 2023 Climate Impact Partners. Publish Date Unknown. Accessed 8 August 2023. URL: https://www.carbonneutral.com/the-carbonneutral-protocol/technical-specifications-and-guidance/step-3-target-1/3-5-climate-or-carbon-or-net-positive