Success as a Green Business

By R Michael Richmond

As we enter a new era of environmental awareness, the ability to claim Green business status is not as simple as slapping on a fresh coat of green paint. There are far too many companies claiming to be a Green business without earning the status of a certified Green business. The concept of an authentically Green business requires that the business earn its credential through a program that has standards and honest compliance rather than an online Green business logo purchase.

To gain a proper perspective on the environmental issues before us, it is now well understand that we are a world in trouble. Our resources are at risk of depletion. Our air, water, and soil has been badly abused. And, we are facing the largest population in history that will soon swell to 9 billion people worldwide. With these facts threatening to destroy us and the generations to follow, making Green claims for your business should be more than token efforts and marketing hype that conceal the true nature of your company.

The Green Business League has set an industry standard when it comes to Green business, and their 100 point system allows everyone to participate. Moreover, the process is all-inclusive. you need not own the building or offer a product to get involved. You need only make a commitment to installing basic Green practices in your daily operation.

One of the big mistakes to avoid is the attempt to Greenwash your business or product by making claims of environmental compliance that are not honest or part of your business operation. Like trying to pretend that you are a chess master as a chess tournament, those who understand Green will eventually learn that you are mocking an issue that is very serious to the rest of us. This is the kind of mistake that will cost businesses heavily. The best advice is to be authentically Green, but do not Greenwash.

To be an authentically Green business, the changes need to be internal as well as showing only externally. It goes back to the saying, "If you are going to Talk the Talk, then you should Walk the Walk." This seems to be self-evident except when it comes to marketing efforts. At that level, the truth is a common casualty because the business must survive and grow. Essentially, it has been acceptable to sacrifice Green on the altar of business opportunity.

In case anyone might be ignorant of the meaning of Green practices, this concept refers to walking the walk in ways not necessarily seen by the public. Green practices are the foundation on which credible Green promotions can be built. Greenwashing, as you might guess, is superficial and basic misrepresentation. Once you scratch off the latest layer, you will find that it is still the same old ideas with a new twist. It is highly suggested that a business seek out the assistance of a certified Green consultant. These professionals will do more than assist in the Greening process, they will show any business how to save a great deal of money every year.

Authentically Green is not only the intelligent way to Go Green, it is also the best marketing option available to any business. It will attract those that are environmentally loyal because they will travel the extra mile and spend the extra dollar because they believe in the cause. To attract more customers and keep them coming, it pays to be an authentically Green business.

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