EWG and Aspen: A Deep Dive into Environmental Advocacy and Services

There should always been someone who cares about the planet—whether it’s checking the safety of my sunscreen or cheering on big renewable energy projects. That’s why I’m so drawn to the work of the Environmental Working Group (EWG) and Aspen Environmental Group. They’re both doing amazing things to protect our environment, but in very different ways. Let’s dive into what they’re up to in 2025, mixing my personal thoughts with some solid facts, based on the latest info.

What EWG Means to Me

The Environmental Working Group, or EWG, has been around since 1993, started by Ken Cook and Richard Wiles. It’s a nonprofit based in Washington, D.C., and I’ve always loved how they focus on things like toxic chemicals, clean drinking water, and holding companies accountable. They’re behind some really useful tools, like their Tap Water Database and Skin Deep Database, which I’ve used to check what’s in my local water or the products I put on my skin.

This year, EWG caught my attention with a report about a chemical called chlormequat in oat-based foods—like cereals my family eats. They found it in stuff marketed to kids, which made me rethink what’s in our pantry. They also updated their guide on PFAS water filters, tackling those “forever chemicals” that keep showing up in drinking water. I’ve used their database to look up my area’s water quality, and it’s been eye-opening to see what’s really in there. Some experts, though, have said EWG can be a bit dramatic—back in 2009, a survey of 937 toxicologists found 79% thought EWG overstated risks. I get that, but I still think they’ve done a lot to push for safer rules, especially on things like PFAS.

Aspen Environmental Group: Making Sustainability Happen

Aspen Environmental Group is a different kind of player, and I’ve been really impressed by their work. They’re a California-based company that helps with environmental impact studies for big projects, making sure things are done sustainably. They work on stuff like the California Environmental Quality Act (CEQA) and the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA), which I’ve learned are key for balancing development with protecting nature.

In 2025, Aspen’s been busy with some cool projects. They’re helping the Los Angeles County Department of Regional Planning update a Renewable Energy Ordinance and put together a big environmental report. They’re also working on the Easley Solar Project, a 390-megawatt solar setup with 650 MW of battery storage that just started construction this year. I’m a big fan of solar energy, so hearing about this got me excited! Plus, they’re involved in the Pier Wind Terminal at the Port of Long Beach, which is all about offshore wind turbines. One of their experts, Catherine Elder, even gave a keynote speech at the Illinois Municipal Electric Agency’s annual conference this month, talking about energy economics. It’s clear they’re leaders in making green projects happen.

EWG’s Tools: Helping Me Shop Smarter

One of my favorite things about EWG is how they make it easy to make better choices. Their EWG Verified program is a lifesaver—I look for that label when I’m buying cleaners or personal care stuff. For example, I started using AspenClean for laundry detergent and dish soap because it’s EWG Verified, meaning it’s free of nasty chemicals. EWG’s Guide to Healthy Cleaning rates tons of products, and I’ve leaned on it to pick safer options for my home.

They’ve also done some great work this year on products for Black women. They found that only 21% of 4,011 personal care items marketed to Black women are low hazard in their Skin Deep Database, which they studied with a group called BLK. That really hit me—it’s unfair that some communities face more risks from everyday products. It reminds me of bigger issues about fairness in environmental health, something experts often talk about when discussing who’s most affected by pollution.

Aspen’s Big Role in Green Energy

Aspen’s work on renewable energy projects has me really hopeful. The Easley Solar Project and the Pier Wind Terminal are the kinds of things I think we need more of. I’ve always been curious about solar and wind power, and seeing Aspen help bring these to life makes me feel like we’re moving in the right direction.

They do a lot more than just energy, though. They handle things like biological surveys, air quality checks, and even look at historical sites to make sure projects don’t harm our heritage. They often work with government agencies, like the California Energy Commission, which I think is awesome because it means they’re helping shape rules that protect the environment while letting progress happen. It’s a tricky balance, but they seem to handle it well.

Where They Face Pushback

Both EWG and Aspen have their challenges, which I think is worth mentioning. For EWG, some people feel they go overboard with their warnings. A historian named James McWilliams once called them out for “fearmongering,” especially on things like genetically modified foods, saying there’s not enough proof to back up their concerns. I can see why people might feel that way—sometimes their reports make me nervous about things I never worried about before. But I also think they’ve pushed companies to be more careful, which is a win.

Aspen, on the other hand, works on big projects that can stir up debate. Since they often partner with government agencies, they’re sometimes tied to projects that locals don’t love—like the Pier Wind Terminal, which might worry people about its impact on the area. It’s a tough spot to be in, trying to support development while keeping the environment safe, and I can see why it’s not always smooth sailing.

How They Work Together for the Planet

What I find really neat is how EWG and Aspen kind of complement each other, even though they’re so different. EWG raises awareness about issues like PFAS in water, which leads to tougher rules that Aspen then has to follow when they do their environmental studies for clients like the Los Angeles Department of Water and Power. It’s like EWG sounds the alarm, and Aspen helps put the solutions into action.

I also love that both groups focus on being open and sharing knowledge. EWG’s databases and Aspen’s detailed project reports make it easier for people like me to understand what’s going on and get involved. It’s a teamwork approach that I think is key to making real change, something you often hear about in studies on how to tackle environmental problems.

What’s Next for EWG and Aspen

As 2025 rolls on, I’m looking forward to seeing what EWG and Aspen do next. EWG will probably keep fighting against pesticides and PFAS, and I’ll be checking their consumer guides to make better choices. Aspen, with their growing list of renewable energy projects, is helping build a greener future, especially with things like offshore wind and solar picking up speed.

I’m hopeful their work will get more people thinking about the environment. Whether it’s grabbing an EWG Verified product or rooting for a solar project Aspen’s working on, there are so many ways we can pitch in for a healthier planet. It’s exciting to imagine what’s ahead!

Wrapping It Up

The Environmental Working Group and Aspen Environmental Group are both doing incredible things for the environment, just in different ways. EWG has opened my eyes to what’s in the products I use, while Aspen’s work on green energy projects makes me hopeful for a cleaner future. Together, their efforts in 2025 show how we can combine awareness with action to make a difference. As someone who loves our planet, I’m so thankful for what they do—and I can’t wait to see what’s next.