Green Business: 20 Ideas on How to Make Money on the Environment

Modern business is focused on environmental friendliness. Relevance, high demand, profitability and development prospects are the reasons why it is worth thinking about opening an eco-business or reorienting the existing business to the "eco" format.

The environmental issue is one of the most important in the world. In the wake of the popularity of the eco-movement, "green" entrepreneurship appeared, bringing not only profit, but also benefits the environment, society, and the planet. For many countries, the environmental direction has long become the norm, but is just beginning to develop. In this article, we will look at how to launch your own eco-business and choose the right direction.

Why eco-business is relevant

Attention to the environment is increasing every year. Sustainability has become a new trend, and businesses have quickly turned it into a marketing ploy. Over the past five years, store shelves have been filled with goods with the prefixes "eco" and "bio". A study by New York University has proven that eco-friendly products sell better. The eco-trend is developing especially actively, as in the rest of the world. The goal of the environmental business is not only to make a profit, but also to make the planet healthier.

Within the framework of eco-entrepreneurship, you can engage in various activities:

• resource-saving technologies;

• environmental improvement, eco-design, etc.;

• the use of secondary raw materials;

• organization of recreation;

• environmental education;

• production and sale of eco-products;

• Provision of environmental services.

Green business can be seen as a profitable idea, as its benefits are obvious:

• environmental friendliness is a global trend;

• is in high demand among consumers; demand is expected to grow;

• weak competition in certain niches;

• supported by the public and the state;

• opportunities for the manifestation of creative ideas;

• eco-technologies often allow you to reduce the cost of your business;

• There are different formats of work: from a small shop with eco-products to a large company producing organic products. A business of any scale can bring a stable income to an entrepreneur.

Eco-business includes entrepreneurial activities that ensure the prevention of pollution, resource- and nature-saving technologies, the use of biotechnologies that implement measures to improve the environment, recycling, green energy, the production of "healthy" food, clean water, construction goods, the construction of eco-parks, waste disposal, tourism, infrastructure, crop and animal breeding.

How to choose an idea and make money on the environment

Eco-business is quite a young direction, so there are many niches and niche projects that can be occupied and successfully implemented. It is advisable to start with what you understand and are competent. Most areas are easy to reorient towards environmental friendliness. For example, working in the market of cleaning services, you can offer an eco-cleaning service. The assortment of the grocery store will be replaced with farm products, and the tourist base with barbecues will be turned into an eco-hotel that organizes "green" recreation. 

Also, when choosing an idea, you should take into account the business conditions in your region. Assess the demand for a product or product, the presence of a target audience, and other conditions. And finally, analyze your options as an investor, organizer, and specialist. In this article, we have collected 20 eco-business ideas with different budgets and focus.

1. Organic Grocery Store

Trade in environmentally friendly goods is one of the most dynamic industries in the country. The demand for such products is constantly growing, despite high prices. As a rule, organic products are 50%-100% more expensive than conventional ones. Accordingly, the profit here is slightly higher than in regular grocery stores. Therefore, you can open a profitable business selling eco-products. .

The essence of the idea is simple: you open an eco-market and sell the goods that are supplied to you by farms. To start, you will need a small investment - for 20 thousand Dollars you can open an eco-shop. Difficulties may arise at the stage of selection of suppliers and promotion. The store must have a stable supply and high-quality products - it takes a lot of time to establish this system. In addition, you will need to carefully consider the storage and sale of products. After all, healthy food (without additives and preservatives) has a short shelf life. To avoid losses, the entrepreneur must find a balance in supply and sales volumes.

2. Eco bags

A profitable business can be built on the manufacture and sale of ecological products. One of the options is to open a production for sewing eco-bags. This will require a minimum of investment - almost the entire amount will be spent on the purchase of equipment and consumables. And the production is easy to place at home.

Eco-bags support the idea of rejecting plastic bags that pollute the environment. Buyers of such bags are young people aged 16-35 years. It is this age range that the manufacturer should focus on when choosing the design of bags and promotion channels. The most profitable option is to open your online store through social networks.

3. Production of eco-firewood

One of the pressing environmental issues is the use of safe fuel. Despite the spread of gas and electric heating, the demand for firewood is consistently high. They are used for fireplaces, greenhouses, baths, wood-burning boilers or stove heating. Not so long ago, an idea appeared on the market to produce fuel briquettes (pellets) from pressed leaves. By adding wax for gluing, manufacturers get an ecopole: 1 kg of such fuel emits about 30 megajoules of energy. This is enough to keep the fire burning in the fireplace or cook food on the grill.

The amount of initial investment depends on the scale of production to be planned. For full-fledged production, you will need about  100 thousand Dollars, and for a home business or mini-production, 2-5 thousand Dollars will be enough. You will need to purchase a briquetting press and a complex for drying the finished product. It is also desirable to provide a production room that can be equipped in your own yard.

It is not difficult to master the production process. There are many videos on the Internet that tell the intricacies of making briquettes from leaves. You can also find tips on how to make your own equipment. The main difficulties are related to the search for raw materials (you need a lot of them for production) and sales. This category of goods is quite complex: in order to make money on sales, you need to clearly understand your target audience. It is worth opening your own production of fuel briquettes only if you are able to establish the supply of raw materials and distribution channels.

4. Eco-design, eco-construction

Construction and design with the prefix "eco" is a modern trend that is gaining more and more popularity. The idea involves an eco-friendly lifestyle in the field of housing construction. This includes:

• various "natural" designs, such as phytowalls or landscaping;

• eco-repairs and construction using environmentally friendly materials;

• construction of eco-houses, which are provided with all the necessary resources only at the expense of environmentally friendly energy sources (alternative, renewable).

Knowledge in this area can be gained through practical seminars on green building, training workshops, etc.

5. Organization of eco-tours

Recently, ecotourism has been gaining popularity. City dwellers are happy to spend outdoor activities. Entrepreneurs quickly picked up the idea and maintained interest. Today, you can find many offers of tours and excursions in this direction. Ecotourism involves spending the night in tents, eating healthy, swimming in the river, fishing, hiking... For those who love comfort, the market offers accommodation in eco-glamp houses, excursions, a sauna and other entertainment. One of the areas that is in demand among the townspeople is the opportunity to live a village life in an agricultural estate: chop wood, harvest crops, look at domestic animals, take a steam bath, drink tea from a samovar. 

The amount of investment depends on the idea itself. To create an author's tour, you will need a minimum of money investment and a maximum of organizational skills. But you will have to spend a significant amount of money on the construction of a town with eco-houses. You can start with a small range of services and invest profits to expand your business. Start by organizing fishing, boating, cycling, themed excursions, etc. There are many options for how to make money on ecotourism. The main thing in this business is your entrepreneurship.

6. Production and sale of eco-friendly pouches

Continuing the theme of eco-bags, you can go a more original way and engage in the production of eco-friendly fabric storage systems. String bags, bags for storing fruits, vegetables and cereals, canvas bags, jute bags, reusable shoe covers, wax napkins for products, etc. Such products will be in demand, but many of them are not yet as popular as the same eco-bags or string bags. So the main task is to come up with an original product and reach out to your customers.

You can also organize such a business at home. A minimum of money will be required for this. But creativity is important here, since you will have to come up with the design and sew the products yourself. Of course, you can hire a master, but then the cost of business will increase.

7. Unpackaged Goods Store

The best-selling product in domestic supermarkets is plastic bags. Every year, 80 billion pieces are sold – and they all end up in landfills. The paper bags that are used in the packaging are also not eco-friendly. Many products are sold in polypropylene or cardboard packaging. The solution to this problem is not to use packaging at all. 

This is the basis of the idea of a store without packaging. The business works as follows: an entrepreneur buys goods in large quantities from a supplier and sells them by weight. The customer comes to the store with his container. By the way, you can also sell eco-friendly packaging in the store - bags, storage bags, etc. 

To date, stores of goods without packaging are popular in Europe, and the niche is vacant. In large cities, such stores are just beginning to appear. The complexity of the business lies in the fact that many buyers are not ready to give up convenient packaging. Therefore, you will have to invest in the promotion of the store to spread your idea.

8. Production of edible tableware

Edible tableware is a new trend that is actively used in many countries. Single-use plastics are being replaced by edible tableware, such as starch-based tableware. Many cafes and restaurants are eager to acquire such a novelty. Fashion has already taken over the U.S. and Europe. In our country, a very small number of companies use edible tableware. And even fewer of those who produce it. Therefore, you can occupy a vacant and very promising niche. It is fashionable, original, convenient and eco-friendly. 

It is possible to open the production of edible tableware at home, without complex equipment and large amounts. After all, edible dishes can be different. For example, you can easily make coffee waffle mugs, rice, bread and cheese plates, jelly cups, dried fruit cups, etc.

It is easiest to choose those products for the production of which standard equipment of the confectionery department is enough. For example, waffle cups. The main risk in this case is low demand. Unfortunately, not all companies can assess the prospects of this idea. Your first priority will be to find customers among catering establishments. And we need to start with those organizations that already support the topic of environmental friendliness.

9. Eco-Consulting

If you can be considered an expert in eco-technologies, then you can provide consulting services in this niche. The essence of the consultations is to give an environmental assessment of houses and offices, to suggest ways of optimization. For example, how to switch to energy-saving technologies or implement a waste disposal program.

To increase customer confidence, become a certified eco-consultant. To date, you can find many training courses, some of which are available online. The training takes place with experienced specialists in the field of environmental management and environmental safety. Serious training will cost about 2 thousand dollars. To start, you will need an investment of about 3 thousand dollars - almost all the funds will be spent on training and advanced training. Don't forget to also include the costs of promoting your services.

10. Organization of eco-weddings 

The problem of ecology is close to many, so the organization of weddings in an eco-style will be a popular service. The implementation of such an idea is a chance to occupy a vacant niche in the wedding business, where there is fierce competition. Some statistics: traditional weddings leave behind 400-600 tons of garbage and waste every year. Therefore, the idea of an eco-wedding is not only about décor, but about life philosophy. 

To build a business on eco-weddings, you will need to assemble a team of like-minded people who are adherents of eco-style. Such an idea should be implemented by caring people, then it will be possible to achieve success. 

At the heart of this business is the concept of sustainability. To organize such weddings, you will need to find extraordinary solutions and show maximum creativity. All wedding décor should be made only from natural materials. Also, an eco-wedding involves: a special menu (dishes from organic products), simplicity, rejection of cars, fireworks and balloons, etc. In other words, a real eco-wedding denies most of the attributes of a traditional wedding: no limousines, fireworks and even paper invitations. 

Despite the concept of simplicity and economy, you can make good money on organizing eco-weddings, since this trend is now at the peak of popularity in European countries.

11. Recyclable Collection Point

The main task is to think over a system for accepting recyclable materials and further processing. Of course, you will make more profit if you combine the collection, sorting, and recycling of recyclables in your business. However, the implementation of such a large-scale idea will require an impressive start-up capital. It is quite difficult to enter a business: from obtaining permits and registration to a high level of competition. But opening a recycling point is a little easier. You can accept all kinds of recyclables or specialize in individual materials: waste paper, plastic, metal, glass, etc. 

There are different formats for such recyclable items. For example, you can install a vending machine where you can hand over used batteries, plastic bottles, and so on. Such machines are not so common yet. You can hand over recyclables at the base, and to make it easier to transport raw materials, it is advisable to purchase a small press. It is used to press cardboard, plastic, aluminum cans, and waste paper. The equipment will cost at least 10 thousand dollars. It will take about the same amount to open a reception point. 

At the start, it is better to solve the issue of handing over recyclables. In any city, there is a reseller who accepts large batches of recyclables. It is better to conclude a contract and work on a permanent basis to eliminate problems with sales.

12. Mini Garbage Recycling Plant

Waste recycling is a profitable and useful business. The profitability of such an enterprise can be 50% or more. However, getting into a business is not that easy. To organize a complex for the reception and processing of solid waste, you will need to go through a complex registration procedure with obtaining permits and invest a large amount. A basic set of necessary equipment for waste processing will cost at least 200 thousand dollars.

Profitable and popular types of solid waste are paper garbage and plastic. Recycled paper is used to make food packaging and toilet paper, while plastic is used to make containers, furniture, and even clothing. However, these are highly competitive areas, so it is better to choose less popular niches, such as organic waste recycling. 

13. Eco-pencils and other eco-trifles

This idea will appeal to those who like original solutions and thoughtful details. In Europe, eco-pencils appeared, in which capsules with seeds of a plant are placed. When the pencil is ground down, it is "planted" in the ground. In one box there are several pencils, where variations with seeds of vegetables, herbs and other plants are presented. The pencils themselves are made of cedar wood, and instead of a lead rod, there is a mixture of graphite and clay. 

This idea was well received by buyers, so you can try to implement it and . To do this, it is not necessary to open your own production of pencils. You can simply start selling them by opening a store of eco-friendly things. For example, bamboo toothbrushes, wax wipes, silicone storage bags, canvas shopping bags, reusable cups for drinks, etc. You can create your own online store, sell goods through social networks or open a small eco-shop in a shopping center.

14. Production of eco-toys

Wooden toys on the wave of popularity. Eco-friendly, aesthetic handicrafts – in all respects, this is in line with modern trends. Nowadays, wooden toys are not cheap, but at the same time they are great to buy. Parents are willing to pay more for a toy if it meets their requirements. 

You will need to purchase several woodworking machines and various auxiliary tools. Costs at the start are small: about 2 thousand dollars. You can sell products via the Internet, using various resources: social networks, You can earn from 5 thousand dollars of net profit on this. The production of wooden toys is an interesting and promising business. If you come up with an original concept and cope with the initial stage, then you will have every chance to develop a larger production.

15. Wind Generator 

The issue of alternative energy supply is relevant now and will only gain popularity in the future. There are various solutions, from solar panels to wind turbines.

The essence of the business is the installation of wind power plants (wind turbines). This is a very promising direction. Entry into this market is available not only for large businesses, but also for medium and small ones. The amount of investment will depend on the scale of the wind farm. The minimum that is needed for the start is 10 thousand dollars, and a powerful station will require several hundred thousands of dollars. A novice businessman can think about making such a wind generator with his own hands - now on the Internet you can find calculations and drawings for the construction of such a generator. However, it is worth noting that not all areas are suitable for wind energy. Keep this in mind when considering an idea for implementation.

16. Organic Cosmetics

The topic of ecology penetrates into all spheres of life and, of course, touched the beauty industry. Stores that specialize only in organic cosmetics began to appear on the market. Green cosmetics contain at least 95% of natural ingredients. Also, all plants used in cosmetics must be grown in environmentally friendly conditions. Packaging must also comply with the principles of environmental friendliness. The idea of the business is to open an eco-friendly cosmetics store. The assortment can include organic products of various kinds: from soaps to lipsticks. 

17. Disposal of equipment

Many people sort their own recyclables (paper, glass, and plastic), but forget about disposing of broken electronics. You can make money by collecting and disposing of old TVs, broken laptops and mobile phones, batteries, cathode ray lamps, and other electronic waste that is harmful to the environment. 

The problem of e-waste disposal is attracting more and more attention, so it is important to seize the moment and occupy a niche. To open an enterprise for the collection and disposal of electronic waste, a significant amount will be required. But you can organize a business for the provision of intermediary services and deal only with the reception (removal) of decommissioned electronics. Your functions will be to accept the equipment, disassemble it "for spare parts" and sell it to large recycling enterprises, whose production facilities allow you to dispose of electronic waste.

18. Eco Restaurant

An eco-restaurant is a profitable idea that fits perfectly into the modern food culture. Healthy food, healthy products, environmentally friendly furniture and building materials, a well-established waste disposal system, eco-design and the philosophy of the institution as a whole are just some of the advantages that will interest visitors. Moreover, the ecological restaurant will attract a different audience: connoisseurs of cozy establishments, adherents of proper nutrition, eco-activists. 

It is better to open such an institution in a large city. But keep in mind that this idea can get you quite a bit of trouble. The fact is that you have to fully adhere to the concept of the establishment. In an eco-restaurant, everything must match: from building materials to the menu. There are a lot of details to consider. Therefore, it is recommended to open such an institution for those who are "in the know".

19. Sale and Installation of Solar Panels

Another option for alternative sources of electricity is solar panels. In foreign markets, such products have long been used by ordinary people.

As a rule, solar batteries are used in three areas: heating greenhouses and various utility rooms, heating residential buildings and heating water in swimming pools, outdoor showers, etc.

You can engage in both the production of solar panels and their installation. The easiest option is to start a solar panel assembly business. To do this, you will have to invest about 30 thousand dollars. A full-fledged enterprise requires an investment of 500-600 thousand dollars and the involvement of serious specialists.

20. Eco-cleaning

Environmental friendliness extends to all spheres of life, including the proper arrangement and maintenance of one's own home. Recently, eco-cleaning services have become popular in the market. Eco-friendliness means that organic, safe cleaning products based on herbs and essential oils are used in the cleaning process. 

Also, eco-friendly equipment is used in eco-cleaning: washing vacuum cleaners, steam generators, etc. The purpose of such cleaning is not only to achieve cleanliness, but also to create safe conditions for health. Eco-cleaning services are actively used by families with small children, allergy sufferers, and pet owners. The scheme of starting a business does not differ from ordinary cleaning. The only question is the selection of environmentally friendly equipment and cleaning products.

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