It’s proven that businesses with an eco-friendly outlook are more successful. Not only will marketing your company as sustainable be better for your business, but there are also many financial benefits. These can include tax reductions, sponsorship, and subsidies. Going green is therefore not only good for the environment but good for business as well. In what ways is your company already eco-friendly? Do you have the option to reduce your carbon footprint even further? And more importantly, how are you going to market this? Eco-marketing is how you let the world know more about your sustainable products or services.
What is Eco-marketing exactly?
Eco-marketing is selling products or services based on their environmental benefits. Sustainable production, for example, is a key feature to highlight. Where do your materials come from? Are they locally sourced, or free of toxic chemicals? These are some of the basics questions you need to consider if you aren’t sure how sustainable your business is. Once you’ve analysed your business under sustainability criteria, you can choose which area you would like to focus on using eco-marketing.
How to get started
In order to keep your business sustainable, it’s best to think locally. Stick to local produce and network with other local businesses, and reach out to the local community. Long-distance travel and transportation will only cause your carbon footprint to skyrocket. Choose locally sourced materials for example, and collaborate with the suppliers in order to create an eco-ad campaign that benefits both businesses. Think of creative yet eco-friendly ideas to get your logo out there, try these quirky, custom made badges and pins from Earthfriendlypromos.com.au for instance. They can be sent out to employees or used for events and promotions
Make a Contribution
Get yourself affiliated with environmental initiatives and non-profit organisations. Volunteer for charities that your business aligns with and make sure you publish your efforts. Social media is a great tool. You could set up a special area of your website to talk about your social contribution. Post on Instagram and other platforms, and get employees involved. Always be transparent as well, and keep your followers as in the loop as possible.
Companies that make a large social contribution can qualify to become a registered B Corp. This will do wonders for your reputation, even if it seems a while off yet. If you’re wondering how to become certified, do your research. Find an eco-label in your field and look up the certification requirements, for more information on how to get certified click here.
Focus on the Benefits
Think about all the angles. Communicate to your customers the benefits of buying your eco-friendly products from their point of view, are the natural materials healthier, or longer-lasting? This is particularly important if going sustainable increases your cost of manufacture. Use the environmental benefits as the focal points of your advertising. Appeal to your audience’s sensitive side by linking to human issues as well. In 2020, sustainability is the road to success.
