Plenty of people start their own business endeavors each year. If you’re one of these people with a great start-up idea, then it’s smart to keep a little focus on green company aspects. More and more consumers say that they want to buy from green-minded companies, so if you’re not thinking eco-friendly, you may not make as much actual green. Here are some tips for starting a business that’s also focused on green.
Don’t greenwash: Keep in mind that consumers aren’t just focused on your goods. You may have green products but if you’re not also walking the talk, i.e. recycling, creating a paper-free office, and so on, consumers may get peeved. Green products and services are nice but true green ethics are the major turn on for consumers.
Get certified: As an individual who reviews green products regularly, I can tell you that certification of both companies and products is something I always look for. Certification backs you up and helps to differentiate your product or service as eco-friendly. Most green businesses go with third party certification.
Look beyond the biggies: Many companies sell green products, recycle company paper, and offset carbon, but many green companies go above and beyond. You need to develop a solid environmental action plan. Included should be ideas you have about how you will support eco-organizations and actions in your community.
Join Green America’s Green Business Network: Green America is a very trusted name in green and most of the best green companies are affiliated with them.
Join up with the EPA: Now, The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has some flaws when it comes to the planet for sure, but they also sponsor many industry partnership and stewardship programs that focus on helping the environment. You can join up with one or two of them that apply to make your business stand-out.
More info:
- Green Guide for New Businesses
- Start a green products business
- 10 Green Ways To Cut Business Costs
- Excellent collection of green business guides from NRDC
[image via stock.xchng]
Post from: Blisstree