If you’re interested in creating a sustainable business, you’re not alone. You can find several ideas that help you reduce waste, use recycled materials, and create more energy-efficient products and services. Read on to learn about some of the greenest options available to you.
Refurbished furniture
One of the most exciting innovations to hit the retail space in recent years is the rise of the furniture rental industry. IKEA, for example, is experimenting with leasing out its wares to businesses. With 12 million tonnes of furniture being produced each year to meet consumer demand, the business is certainly not a small one.
Refurbished furniture is a great way to keep old and worn out items out of landfills, while simultaneously promoting a greener, more environmentally friendly consumer. The refurbished items are then resold at a reduced price.
Repurposed clothing
Upcycling is the practice of reusing materials that have already been discarded. It can be applied to clothing, furniture, and other materials. Some upcycling projects require sanding, cutting, and re-dyeing.
Upcycling is an excellent way to keep garments out of landfills, while saving money on new clothes. Upcycling saves natural resources and reduces the carbon footprint.
As the world becomes more aware of the environmental impact of the fashion industry, more and more people are looking for more ethical and sustainable fashion options. Some brands are taking a stand by reusing old garments. They are also raising awareness about the issue.
Reupholstering sofas
You can find eco-friendly sofas, but not all are created equal. From recycled fabrics to low-impact construction methods, the eco-savvy consumer is in for a treat. If you’re in the market for a new couch, check out Burrow’s eco-friendly options. Their patented reversible sofa is a great way to minimize your carbon footprint. This sofa features sustainable wooden legs, which come from responsibly managed American forests.
You’ll also be pleased to learn that Burrow’s furniture is backed by a lifetime warranty. In addition to their impressive array of eco-friendly couches, they also feature a large selection of eco-friendly accent tables.
Green bakery concepts
A new crop of green businesses are eschewing the traditional model and looking to woo a discerning clientele. Getting your business certified green is not for the faint of heart and will require a certain level of investment. Fortunately, there are plenty of resources aplenty to help you along the way. If you’re considering a foray into the green space, check out our handy list of green business tips to help you get started. As you navigate the waters, remember the golden rule: treat your customers with respect. The right approach can reap big rewards.
Ink refilling
When it comes to eco-friendly business ideas, one is hard-pressed to beat ink refilling. Not only is it a greener way to do business, but it’s also a great way to save a few bucks while doing it. One adage that’s often cited is that a refilled ink cartridge is about 50% cheaper than buying a new one. Likewise, the recycling process is made much easier by reducing the amount of packaging and shipping waste. The best part is, a well run ink refill business can prove to be a lucrative venture for a small business owner.
Urban cultivation
Urban cultivation as a sustainable business idea is gaining popularity in cities around the world. This can be done through community gardens or farming operations. Many cities provide financial support for urban agriculture projects. In the United States, the Department of Health and Human Services is considering supporting urban agriculture in the future.
The benefits of urban agriculture include food security, food diversity, and biodiversity. It can also reduce energy use and improve waste management.
In addition, it can improve individual health and well-being. It can improve air quality and microclimate control, and can create economic opportunities.
Carpooling
Carpooling is a scheme where two or more people share the cost of a car journey. These schemes help reduce pollution and congestion in the city
Carpooling can be done in the car or by using an online platform. The platforms match drivers and passengers by allowing them to find a travel partner with similar travel times. This allows the driver and passenger to make a secure transaction.
Companies can set up sustainable mobility packages to encourage employees to use the company car. If carpooling is done on a regular basis, employees can save money and carbon emissions. In the long term, carpooling can reduce congestion and improve traffic flow.
