The sustainable business ideas is not a new one, and in fact, many businesses have been around for decades and are still going strong. But to be successful now, those same companies must put sustainability front and center in their operations as well as their marketing strategies.
As the world’s population grows to an estimated 9 billion by 2050, it will take more than just recycling at home or buying locally grown produce from your farmer’s market every week to keep the planet livable for humans and other species alike.
In fact, a recent report from the United Nations Environment Programme said that “sustainable solutions for all sectors of society are needed now more than ever.” More and more consumers today want to support companies that take a responsible approach to business – not just in terms of their products or services but also during the manufacturing process.
And as the marketplace becomes increasingly more evidence- and data-driven, educated consumers can become powerful influencers that drive purchasing decisions. Below are 7 sustainable business ideas for eco-minded entrepreneurs that one can follow to start your business.
1. Eco-Consulting
According to Business Know-How, consulting services related to sustainable business practices can be a great way for green entrepreneurs to get their feet wet. There is always a demand for the expertise of eco-experts and consultants who can offer guidance on how companies and individuals alike can improve their sustainability efforts and green footprint.
This includes finding ways to reduce energy consumption, reduce waste output, manage natural resources more carefully, and find innovative ways to source production parts.
Eco-consulting can also include:
- Developing or improving sustainability policies.
- Finding ways to reduce the carbon footprint of products and services.
- Creating sustainability plans.
A business can make money providing eco-consulting services by offering solutions to these problems (for example, an energy audit for a company).
2. Organic Catering
Even local food delivery services are trying to go green. That’s right – there is potential for profit in the organic catering industry, too. A company that specializes in preparing and delivering meals that meet specific eco-friendly criteria can hit it big with consumers who are willing to pay a little more for healthier, sustainable food options.
The company can also provide food-delivery services for those who want organic, sustainable meals but don’t have the time to prepare them themselves. In order to make a profit with this business idea, one would need to purchase and prepare ingredients in bulk and find ways of reducing food waste (by selling excess food at discounted rates).
3. Eco-Friendly Beauty Salon
There is money to be made in the beauty and wellness sector, but one has to think green when doing so. There’s no question about it: we can always use more eco-friendly services and businesses.
Today, consumers are interested in green beauty products and services that go beyond just using organic ingredients – they want full-service beauty salons focusing on going green, from the products that are used to the overall philosophy of care.
In order to have a successful business here, one would need to incorporate each element of sustainable beauty – from organic and vegan products to eco-friendly salon practices such as recycling and purchasing recycled furniture.
4. Eco-Friendly Retail Store
On the other end of the spectrum from a beauty-salon business is an eco-friendly retail store. Consumers want to be able to buy sustainable products from trusted sources, so why not open a shop that offers everything from natural pet food and cleaning supplies to recycled home goods? In fact, according to research conducted by Care2, consumers would purchase eco-friendly products for about 15% less than they do now.
For eco-minded entrepreneurs looking to outfit their retail store with biodegradable, eco-friendly materials, it can be difficult to find sustainable and affordable options. One company is making a commitment to provide a wide range of biodegradable custom mailer boxes for all your retail packaging needs. Their biodegradable materials are not only better for the environment, but are also made from high-quality materials that will ensure your products stay safe during shipping and handling.
5. Eco-Friendly Landscaping Company
A green landscaping company can focus on several different elements that will help it be sustainable, such as offering organic and natural pest control options and using non-toxic fertilizers and weed treatments.
But the process of creating a successful business here goes beyond just offering eco-friendly services – customers also expect landscapers to know how to reduce water consumption, manage waste output, and reduce runoff.
6. Bicycle Repair and Refurbishing
Bicycles are not only great for the environment, but they’re also a fun way to get around! According to Bicycle Retailer and Industry News, Americans purchased over 17.7 million bicycles in 2015 – including 910,000 electric bikes.
All of those bicycles need some maintenance every so often, which is where bicycle repair shops come in. These shops can work on anything from repairing flat tires to changing gears and brakes while keeping costs down by using recycled parts whenever possible.
7. Filters and Water Purifiers
According to a study from Transparency Market Research, the global water filtration market was valued at $24.8 billion in 2013 and is expected to reach $75.5 billion by 2024 – so an eco-friendly filter or purifier business could be a sustainable opportunity for some.
In order to have success with this type of business, one would need to be able to produce filters that are effective at removing contaminants without needing too much ongoing maintenance. The goal should be to reduce water waste, as well.
While all the above sustainable ideas are great, the most important thing is to focus on what you’re passionate about and how your unique skills can contribute. Put yourself in a position to benefit from it, and I’m sure you’ll find many ways to do so.
Meanwhile, you can also follow some sustainable business ideas given in the infographics below by GetVoIP and can start your business.
