Modern consumers have become more eco-conscious about the products and services they avail of. But aside from that, many are also looking for sustainability in the actual businesses they made a purchase from. For such reason, thousands of businesses prioritize the incorporation of sustainability trends to capitalize on this growing demand.
Businesses that embrace sustainability in their operations and practices now play a huge role in protecting the environment from further damage. You’ll find below some of the biggest sustainability trends for businesses to reduce carbon emissions and take care of the planet’s health:
1. Sustainable packaging
One of the most recognizable trends nowadays is eco-friendly packaging, which is generally made from materials free from allergens and toxins. Traditional packaging is made from chemically laden materials that make it harmful for both manufacturers and consumers. Sustainable packaging, on the other hand, provides customers with materials that can suit their healthy lifestyle.
Most materials used for eco-friendly packaging are also biodegradable and recyclable, which reduces their harmful impact on our planet. Plus, such sustainable materials are also easy to dispose of compared to traditional ones. And from a financial point of view, manufacturing companies can save money using easy disposable packaging materials. Businesses that use sustainable packaging include cosmetic or personal care shops, clothing brands, and even grocery stores.
Some of the popular eco-friendly packaging alternatives include biodegradable air peanuts, inflatable air pillows made from recycled materials, corrugated bubble wrap, and cornstarch and mushroom packaging.
2. Zero waste
Over the past decades, recycling has become a requirement for many businesses or brands, which is considered a huge step towards the zero waste trend. The policies and practices covered by zero waste aim to eliminate the systematic production of toxic materials and waste used by companies. The primary goal of businesses promoting zero waste is to reuse or conserve their resources for sustainable growth.
This trend basically cuts down problems related to the regulatory release of harmful emissions and costs of taxes and waste disposal. Just like other sustainability business trends, zero waste activities play a huge role in marketing campaigns. Brands that are part of the movement focuses on the three ‘Rs’, reduce, reuse, and recycle. And while this doesn’t entirely make a business zero waste instantly, it makes the goal achievable.
3. Green investments
From sustainable fisheries, organic groceries, to power generation, everyone becomes more interested in going green. Nowadays, both businesses and consumers are always looking for ways to ensure their manufacturing practices and purchasing decisions are good for the environment. But there’s one special sustainability trend today that is particularly ideal for investors: green investments.
This investment activity relates to projects designed for environmental preservation, ranging from fossil fuel reduction, alternative energy source generation, and conservation of natural resources. It may also include projects related to waste management and maintenance and cleaning of water and air.
Green investments can be mutual funds, bonds, electronically traded funds, and securities. The funds can be raised by individuals, hedge funds, corporations, and private equity firms. Investing here is perfect for any companies or individual entrepreneurs looking to green up their portfolios.
4. Renewable energy
Aside from corporate organizations, many small to medium-sized businesses are also taking advantage of renewable energy. Renewable energy helps thousands of businesses reduce the consumption of resources such as water and fossil fuels, which also leads to saving on utility bills. Even entertainment establishments with installed bowling alleys, skating centers, and other sports facilities use different renewable energy solutions like solar panels to maintain lower energy bills. Other examples of renewable energy solutions include wind farms using turbines, hydroelectric power utilizing dams’ turbines, biomass that comes from living organisms and plants, and geothermal heat using heated water pumping. Each one can produce electricity with eco-friendlier and safer practices.
It can’t be denied that renewable energy is a perfect element to boost a company’s public image. It makes them more environmentally conscious and socially responsible. This strategic choice and highly beneficial trend can’t just help reduce the use of fossil fuels but also result in a healthy return on investment.
Creating sustainable business practices is not just for the purpose of appealing to the modern consumers’ demand or a simple industry trend. It is more of helping the planet fight off climate change by reducing pollution and promoting sustainable living to everyone. And if there’s any wave in the business industry today that’s worth riding, that is sustainability.
