Climate change is one of the most immediate global concerns. Scientists warned the world about rising temperatures, increasing sea levels and more frequent weather events for decades. Now people are experiencing these extreme changes in full force, and they want to do something to save the planet.
Although many people reduce their carbon footprint through lifestyle changes, they realize they can make the most difference by supporting eco-friendly companies. Their money can sway corporations to minimize their environmental impact. Subsequently, consumers say they want more sustainable products in all industries.
These are the top business sectors adapting to meet their consumers’ needs. Other companies can do the same to increase revenue while gaining the trust of more customers.
Forget One-Use Plastics
Businesses relied on one-use plastics for many years because they are budget-friendly and maximize profits. They’re also more convenient for customers on the go. Some examples of these plastic products include:
– Straws
– Water bottles
– Grocery bags
– Plastic cutlery
– Six-pack rings
As more people became aware of widespread plastic pollution, it became clear that these products weren’t worth their money. Many of these items float out into the ocean and kill 1 million seabirds each year, along with other marine life. Plastic also produces microplastics that accumulate polychlorinated biphenyl compounds in water systems. These compounds cause side effects like weakened immune systems, various types of cancer and reproductive problems.
It will take time to phase out these products altogether, but 67% of Americans support these elimination efforts because they will improve the environment.
Support Sustainable Design
Living a green lifestyle doesn’t end when people leave their homes in the morning. They also want sustainability integrated into their workspaces. Manufacturers in architecture and construction can support sustainable design by looking into green blueprints for office buildings, schools and other public spaces.
There are many ways to make commercial buildings sustainable, starting with construction materials. Concrete is a widely used material with long-lasting effects on the planet. If the concrete industry became a country, it would rank third in the world for its 2.8 billion annual metric tonnes of CO2 emissions during production. It also doesn’t break down after demolition. Recycled steel or plant-based polyurethane foam are greener and equally effective solutions.
Rethink Home Remodeling
Home remodeling presents a new opportunity for sustainable residential areas. Even though homeowners may live in a house built before climate change was a pressing concern, they can renovate their homes to meet their needs.
When their floors warp or their cabinets age, consumers don’t need to purchase new wood that destroys forests. Instead, they can look into reclaimed wood. The production processes required to produce traditional lumber employ 11 to 13 times more energy than making reclaimed wood products. Less energy usage guarantees fewer carbon emissions from manufacturing plants.
Some people may worry that sustainable products won’t have enough inventory for their intended projects. Demolished buildings produce 1 billion feet of lumber each year, leading to a constant supply of eco-friendly materials such as reclaimed wood. Green products are easy to access and widely available for consumers who want to help the planet.
Analyze Culinary Options
The hospitality industry is one of many that adapts to consumer demands. As hoteliers upgrade their properties, they can analyze culinary options to eliminate pollution. The farm-to-table trend promotes local suppliers and eliminates long-haul transportation emissions. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) found that transportation produces 28% of national greenhouse gas emissions, directly fueling the warming climate.
Local farms use fewer fossil fuels to ship their products to nearby hotels. They also don’t have to follow corporate rules to maintain their farmland. Instead of using industrial chemical treatments, small farmers follow organic best-practices that invest in sustainable growing methods. Supporting these farms helps prevent chemical runoff from entering local waterways and preserves the environment.
Listen to Consumers
People want to spend their money with companies that support their green lifestyles. It’s up to businesses to adapt to the increasing crowds of consumers who want more sustainable products. Looking into available local options, reassessing building materials and avoiding one-use plastics are just a few ways for any business to prove it is committed to a greener future.
