Green Suppliers
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If you are interested in getting involved with or starting a venture that focuses on the environment, see the article on Green Enterprises.
Although many remain convinced that the current emphasis on the environment and global warming is just another short-term fad, there is much evidence to suggest that the concern for a greener society is here to stay. This can be seen most clearly in the business and entrepreneurship communities: green is everywhere. More entrepreneurs are capitalising on the opportunities that exist to both measure and improve environmental sustainability, and greener ventures are seeing greater rewards, in terms of both funding and recognition. This trend is seen at all levels of the supply chain, and in order to be able to claim to be truly green, businesses must also consider environmental sustainability at all levels of the supply chain.
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Why Green Suppliers?
Not every venture needs to centre around a green or environmentally environmentally friendly idea: there are many ways to make existing operations more environmentally sustainable. One of these is by using green suppliers; since going green becomes better and better for business, using green suppliers becomes the smart choice for new ventures and startups,
A report released in November 2008 suggested that the current consumer interest in green products, coupled with the changes in environmental policies, governmental regulations, and the climate itself, will have a large effect on the cost of doing business[1]. The report outlines what the researchers term 'ecoflation', a scenario in which, they state, "policies and constraints on natural resources force firms to add to the cost of doing business the environmental costs previously borne by society"[1], and it makes suggestions for how businesses can approach the emerging environmental risks to their supply chains. While its suggestions are particularly aimed towards large, global companies, the report itself suggests the benefits that can be reaped by using green suppliers, even in smaller ventures [1].
In addition to avoiding a potential increase in environmental costs, using green suppliers can increase customer loyalty and the credibility of your business[2]. Using green suppliers and making simple changes in daily operations to address environmental concerns can also help a venture to differentiate itself from competitors[2]. As your venture grows, your reputation as a green enterprise can help to attract and retain the top talent in the industry. [2]
In an article for Greenbiz.com, Brandi McManus of TAC writes: "the transition from thoughtless and wasteful action to deliberate conservation starts with education, a change in habits and shift in mindset. The upside is that these changes are not difficult nor are they expensive. Smart companies can use environmental strategy to innovate, create wealth and build a competitive advantage" [2]. Using green suppliers, as well as implementing recycling programs, energy saving habits and guidelines, all help to place your venture amongst those who are able to understand and capitalise on the growing interest in sustainability and green enterprise.
Sourcing Green Suppliers
The following list details some green suppliers. If you have a business which offers a green good or service, why not add it to the list below?
- ALocalPrinter.com: Offers flyers, brochures, leaflets, stationary, business cards, and more at competitive prices, and they ensure a combination of quality and the use of green technologies and materials.
- EcoMonkey.com: On-line site offering a range of green products.
- Allwag : On-line site offering Eco-Friendly promotional products for your business made from recycled materias.
- Earthwhile.co.uk: Retailer of solar powered products and energy saving devices.
- Dial Green: A carbon neutral telecommunications provider offering line rental, calls and broadband.
For more green suppliers, have a look at IMEX and Green Global Village's Green Suppliers Directory. (In the U.S., try Green Suppliers Network for a similar directory)
In addition, EcoLiving offers links to green business suppliers in a variety of business supply categories.
References
- ↑ 1.0 1.1 1.2 Rattling Supply Chains: The Effect of Environmental Trends on Input Costs for the Fast-Moving Consumer Goods Industry, World Resources Institute - November 2008 [1]
- ↑ 2.0 2.1 2.2 2.3 2.4 Brandi McManus, Vital to Business Survival: Assessing the Impact of Environmental Pressures, GreenBiz.com - 23 February 2009 [2]
