Forums: Discussions for entrepreneurs and small business.

There`s a lot of companies, big and small, claiming they have green products, and practices.

Understandably, consumers are skeptical of the sudden wave of green advertising. According to the Sustainable Futures study, nearly 64% of people viewed these messages as a marketing gimmick. Yet, despite this pessimism, they still want to spend their money with eco-conscious companies.

This tells me that despite the flooded market, there`s still room for authentic, eco-conscious companies to thrive.

My question for people starting, or who own a green focused company, what are you
doing to prove to customers that you really care about the environment?

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Your Complete Source for Retail Packaging
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We send a 124-page chemical analysis and manufacturing report on every item used in our flags and the tools that make those flags to each customer.

The ironic thing is that the flag orders generally weigh only about 12oz. But the Green Report weighs about another pound. So we just pass on the charges for shipping to the customers.


............just kidding.............

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Brendita`s Body Works - Organic Skin & Hair Care Products

 @CraigL Wow, 124 pages! I assume this report is for distributors/wholesalers of your flags? I think a regular consumer might be turned off by a report of that volume.

@Casi I like what you`re doing on your website. More companies need to take a proactive approach in making people aware of, and teaching them how to spot greenwashing.

Besides teaching, what other ways have the businesses on this forum involved customers in their green initiatives?








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Your Complete Source for Retail Packaging
http://www.retailpackaging.com
Tips and Advice for independent retailers and small businesses on our blog http://www.retailpackaging.com/blog
Follow us on Twitter for packaging & business advice @retailpackaging

No, we send it to everyone, whether they want it or not. ;-)

lol @ Craig:  30 Free trees w/every flag..just reverse engineer and presto- instant forest :)

We have a similar situation in which our packaging does not quite jive with our Green message. So to Premier Packaging, can you offer an alternate solution? Our recycled and restored electronics, primarily cell phone batteries, need to stay waterproof, and are currently packaged in a resealable plastic bag (with a tip for re-use of the bag to offset its impact) and a clear plastic label (so as not to obscure the product)

In regards to "Greenwashing", it can be frustrating for companies that are/have been "green to the core" to now be competing with so many "posers" BUT there could be a silver lining here in the respect that 1) As these companies begin to understand that eco-friendly practices such as recycling and conservation are actually quite healthy for their bottom line AND 2)consumer awareness drives transparancy...we could emerge with an army of green comrades bent on reducing their carbon footprints and dumpster loads, and ultimatly achieve the benefits for our planet! (even if they are unwitting/unwilling particpants ;)

Just to continue the thought on packaging...   How many products have you seen encased in thick plastic shell that requires a utility knife to open?  Talk about over-kill.


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Brendita`s Body Works - Organic Skin & Hair Care Products

@ beautifulpetunia We do carry zippit reclosable bags (http://cli.gs/14XWWX) that are recyclable, however these are not made from recycled content or biodegradable materials like some of our other products.  

I also agree with your silver lining theory. In the long run green might not be as powerful a way to set yourself apart as it is now, although I think the companies who solidy demonstrate their commitment now, will have an easier time maintaining that perception compared to those who jump on the bandwagon later.

@Casi I also hate quarter inch plastic packaging, along with the zip ties that usually accompany it. I understand these companies are trying to prevent shoplifting, and keep the product intact but they have to strike a balance by also doing what is good for the environment.

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Your Complete Source for Retail Packaging
http://www.retailpackaging.com
Tips and Advice for independent retailers and small businesses on our blog http://www.retailpackaging.com/blog
Follow us on Twitter for packaging & business advice @retailpackaging