Greening Your Small Business: Go Beyond the Hype with a Plan that Works for You

by Caron Bee at Business.gov

As "going green" continues to dominate the political and consumer agenda across the U.S., it’s actually easier than you might think for small business to make a difference and "do its bit" for a greener America. 

Small businesses make up half of the nation’s private workforce and likewise consume half its energy sources. That said, because small businesses possess the flexibility, agility and local footprint that many larger companies do not, as a collective group of business owners they have the potential to be more impactful.

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Tips From Business.Gov - The Official Business Link To The Government

The explosion of organic and eco-friendly products on retail store shelves is more than just a passing fad. It's big business. This means big opportunities for environmentally minded entrepreneurs.

According to the The Organic Trade Association's Manufacturer Survey, the organic industry grew by 21% to reach $17.7 billion in consumer sales in 2006. Over the last decade organic sales have increase by an average of 20%, and this rate is expected to remain steady over the next 20 years.

Find Your Niche. As the natural, organic lifestyle continues to catch on with consumers, there are many growth possibilities. Products such as food, cosmetics and cleaning supplies are growing areas within the organic trade, however, to be successful, you should look for opportunities that match your interests.

Get Certified. To differentiate your product or service as environmentally sound, consider obtaining certification from an independent, third-party. Being certified means that you can include their "ecolabel" on your product's label and other marketing materials. Ecolabeling is important for attracting "green" customers. Learn more about Green Marketing.

Practice What You Preach. The most successful green businesses don't just sell the green lifestyle. They live it. Selling green means being green, and this helps build your brand and image as a socially responsible. Before you start you business, consult the following resources:

Green Guide for New Businesses -Simple steps to adopting environmentally-friendly business practices.

Small Business Guide Energy Efficiency Tips - resources and tools that help save on energy costs.

Case Studies and Examples - Learn about successful companies that have proactive environmental policies.

Join Industry Partnerships. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) sponsors a wide variety of industry partnership and product stewardship programs that aim to reduce the impact of industrial activities on the environment. Joining one of these programs helps you connect with others in your industry, grow your brand, and protect the environment and natural resources.



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