How startups can connect with the eco-friendly consumer

As startups, we are trying to define the niche space that will set us apart from the others in a hyper-competitive market. Some startups focus on creating big valuations, making the big bucks, and becoming another Flipkart or Snapdeal – this would define their success. However, there are other startups that are bootstrapping and looking for innovative ways to stand apart from others by helping the environment and making a social impact.

Today’s consumers are becoming increasingly aware and conscious about how their purchasing decisions impact the environment. As a result, a new market for eco-friendly “green” products has opened up for e-tailers and the new generation of entrepreneurs who truly do care about the environment! A number of players are connecting with customers by offering products that are safe, pure and eco-friendly. Being earth friendly or eco-friendly has become a necessity in today’s world of global warming. It requires deliberate steps from people of all walks to reduce environmental damage.Here are some of the ways how.

Emphasis on technology and new avenues

With a focus on innovation and technology, an increasing number of startups is addressing environmental issues and making a significant contribution to society. For instance, there are several players in the clothing industry that now offer 100% pure cotton and organic materials at affordable rates. In comparison to the synthetic laden clothes available in the market, which cause rashes and irritability with heat, organic cotton and breathable fabrics are safer for the skin and environmentally friendly too. In addition, some startups aspire to empower destitute women by providing opportunities for them to earn a respectable livelihood and create a name for themselves in the society.

Entrepreneurship and social responsibility

An increasing number of entrepreneurs are using materials that are eco-friendly and good for the world! For example, a growing number of retailers now use bags made from recycled paper and cloth instead of plastic. This not only adds an earthly touch to the shopping experience but also helps to protect the environment from unnecessary waste and pollution.

There was a time when we took great comfort in the clothes that were hand-stitched by our grandmothers, but in today’s busy lives we don’t have time to stitch clothes ourselves – rather most of us are not even equipped to stitch or embroider. With NeedyBee, we are bringing that back to the world by creating a line of hand-embroidered, block printed, crocheted clothing for the little ones that would love to wear such clothes.

Proliferation of organic industry

Organic grocery delivery is another example of India going health conscious. Going ‘green’ at the dinner table often means choosing to eat organic foods. On the contrary, not everyone has easy access to organic foods and that's where organic delivery services come in handy.

Eco-friendly restaurateurs know that sustainable, organic menu items are better for both their customers' health and the environment. Happily, there is a growing number of restaurants serving vegan and organic foods coming up in all cities.

Reusable food storage is now a big trend

Plastic household products, especially food storage containers, make up a huge portion of landfill waste. A lot of stores now sell reusable stainless-steel food containers that can replace the typical disposable products that many families use when packing meals to go. Glass containers and bottles are starting to come back onto our shelves. Many people are also realizing that plastic is a massive hazard for the environment and this is motivating them to revert to the traditional ways of storing food.

Nontoxic paint to sustainable wood

Now we find retailers selling eco-friendly items ranging from nontoxic paint to cutting boards made from sustainably grown wood. I recently went to a boutique hotel that had clay tiles for flooring. They were simple, organic and good for the environment.

It is clear that many entrepreneurs and creative heads realize that customers have a high degree of awareness about the environment and society. They are ready to pay an extra dime if they find products that are environmentally friendly. Not only that, a lot of people will go out of their way and consciously buy eco-friendly products to help the entrepreneurs who are going against the tide and working hard to ensure that this world becomes a safer and better place to live.

(Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of YourStory)