Overcoming Challenges in Green Consumerism

February 05, 2016

Businesses offering green products are facing challenges at every stage of the product lifecycle. Starting from the production of goods to engaging customers and the disposal of goods, each step brings unique challenges to businesses working to protect the environment.

While the barriers vary by product, industry, and geography, there are some common issues that every business needs to address so as to encourage buyers to choose green products.

Educate Consumers

Consumers are largely unaware of green buying, so educating them about green production can greatly help people know about green consumerism and the significance of their role in green movement. It’s a good idea to expand your efforts beyond your own products to educate them about larger issues of pollution, climate changes, and other environmental problems. Cite examples like the success of Energy Star, a joint initiative launched by the EPA and the U.S. Department of Energy, that has helped individuals and businesses reduce their carbon footprint drastically. Only by letting people know about their social and environmental impact can you encourage them to alter their shopping choices.

Build Better Products

Most consumers believe that ethical products are cheaper in quality than their conventional counterparts. A survey has found that nearly 61 percent consumers are skeptical about the quality and performance of green products. In order to gain widespread acceptance, green manufacturers need to produce goods that are on par and even better than their conventional alternatives. As performance, quality, and durability still outweigh the product’s ecological soundness, ethical businesses need to overcome quality perception issues by outperforming their traditional counterparts.

Be Honest

Verifying the veracity of the company’s claims of being socially and environmentally friendly is no more difficult for consumers. However, it is strongly suggested that you remain honest about your environmental impact as well as inform your consumers about the initiatives you are taking to reduce your footprint. Asking consumers to be environmentally and socially responsible when you are making little or no efforts to improve your practices can only lead to a backlash. So, be mindful of what you are delivering and what you promise about your green initiative.

Offer More

It’s easier for people to switch to ethical products when they know how their choices are making an impact both financially and environmentally. Allow consumers to track their contribution by providing them with information on how your products are being developed and how the profits are being returned to the society. Knowing about how they are contributing to the environment can make consumers feel more confident about their spending.

If you are looking to enter the ethical retailing market, become part of our network to get access to a large number of ethical consumers from all over the world. With our platform offering fair trade clothing and accessories, we allow customers to access global ethical brands with greater ease and convenience. Contact us to start marketing your ethical products today.

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