Closed Loop Cooking Weekly Newsletter 6.2.23

CLC Weekly 🌸 Storytelling + Studio, a CLC announcement!

June 02, 2023

June 2nd, 2023

Hi friends,

Just over here noodling on what it means to make something from nothing, like the perfect pasta with only 3 ingredients. If I was to start this entire process again, knowing the complexities of creating a platform and still recognizing how far there is to go… would I do it again?

If you know me, and my love of a handmade linguine, resoundingly yes. In true CLC fashion, this idea has been cooking on low the last 6 months of our newsletter revival–how does this scale sustainably? And how do I continue to support other brands making an impact? My love of storytelling has created incredible opportunity for cultivating community, crafting beautiful work, and enjoying truly good mood food. And I want to keep building.

So it made sense to elevate this work and expand the CLC family. With that, I’m beyond excited to share with y’all the official launch of Closed Loop Studio! The creative agency for sustainable brands. I’m kicking off our creative hub to support the innovative work of other founders in the industry, with a focus on branding + short form motion content. It’s big and uncomfortable in the best ways but just like salted pasta water that flavor and stability will develop in time. Who’s coming over to roll dough this weekend?

The studio will continue to evolve but as of 6/2 we are open for biz! My ask is to take a look, share with a friend, and keep us in mind for any upcoming storytelling needs. It’s a privilege to take up space in your inbox this week and I can’t wait to share in all our creative endeavors. 

Here’s to innovating on climate action in 2023, together. (It’s giving Lady and the Tramp noodle kiss, right?)

Stay hungry,Hawnuh Lee | Founder, Closed Loop Cooking

Welcome to the Closed Loop Studio! // @hawnuhlee

The dish >>

The what and why of sustainable storytelling

Notes from Maia Welbel

This studio launch comes with the consideration of what sustainable storytelling means in an era of greenwashing and deferred climate responsibility. We're iterating on what creative climate action can do to move the needle.

So brands need to do better / have more sustainable practices, why does storytelling need to be a part of it? 

Widespread change will only come when enough consumers demonstrate to brands that they are more likely to spend money on them when they trust they’re making an earth friendly choice by doing so. How do we build that trust? By telling human stories about what goes on behind the scenes and the values that back up those practices. Who is sustainability storytelling for exactly?

Often the companies working the hardest on low-waste / low-emissions practices are far from the loudest when it comes to marketing. These brands deserve the opportunity to share their work with the world and consumers deserve to know about them! We don’t want flashier ads we just want honest, values-forward communication. 

Ok but we can’t shop our way out of climate catastrophe… 

Correct! Consumption under late stage capitalism will always be morally dubious. However, operating within the systems we are a part of, consumers can still make choices about how and where they spend their money based on the future they want to bring about. Capitalist ideology insists that profit is the sole driver of economic decisions, but the reality is that we are rapidly approaching the point at which our planet says ‘nope’. Affluent communities today are only beginning to feel the day to day impacts of climate change, which is why it may feel unimportant or even indulgent to make lifestyle choices based on environmental concerns. But more marginalized and vulnerable populations are currently suffering displacement, wage loss, health crises, and more. It is the responsibility of those in privileged circumstances to take initiative in manifesting a safer future for all humans, and where you put your dollars is one part of that. Isn’t that kinda bleak?

Hear us out: The people running truly sustainable and equitable business understand the gravity of what’s at stake, and that’s why they almost always have the most passionate, hopeful, and uplifting stories to share! These eco-heros make it work despite the fact that the most sustainable option today isn’t necessarily the most convenient or the cheapest. It’s hard work, so finding the time and avenues to genuinely connect with consumers who would love to support them can’t always be a priority. That’s where Closed Loop Studio comes in - we understand the hustle and deeply value your commitment. We’re also eager creatives who love learning from likeminded folks and helping them tell their stories authentically in fun, funky, and engaging ways. You’re already building better for the planet, we think the world should know about it.Wow you sound delightful! How can we work together? 

If you’re a founder or contributor building a brand we'd love to support you in crafting a custom narrative. If you're a creative, we'll be developing digital templates to support your existing brand! Or if you're curious to learn more in general, we'd love to connect.

You’re already building better for the planet, we think the world should know about it.

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Have an idea we should feature in the newsletter? Want to work with us? Drop a line at [email protected]. We can’t wait to see what y’all cook up next! #closedloopcooking