Here’s a thought for you! “What if being eco-friendly wasn’t just good for the planet but also good for your business?”
With World Environmental Health Day on 26 September around the corner, it’s the perfect time to talk about something every business owner should care about… Environmental sustainability in business.
And no, this isn’t about planting trees once a year or putting up a green logo. It’s about building smarter, more sustainable practices that reduce waste, save money, and make your customers proud to choose you.
In this blog, let’s discuss what a sustainable (green) business actually means, why it matters more than ever in 2025, and 11 easy-to-apply strategies (with real examples) you can use to grow your business the sustainable way.
Let’s get started without any delay!
A sustainable business (or green business) is one that makes money while also caring for the environment.
It’s about running your operations in a way that reduces waste, saves energy, and protects natural resources, all while maintaining growth.
As a business coach working with small business owners, I often explain it this way…
In simple terms, a sustainable business looks after profits, people, and the planet… All at the same time.
For MSMEs, the importance of environmental sustainability in business goes far beyond “going green.”
Here’s why it matters!
With challenges like climate change and pollution, every business has a role in protecting the environment.
Simple steps [reducing energy use or recycling] can cut down on operating costs.
Today’s customers prefer environmentally friendly companies and reward them with loyalty.
Sustainable practices open up new markets, partnerships, and even government incentives.
Building a sustainable business culture helps you stay compliant, avoid risks, and secure long-term success.
Do you want long-term success in your business?
Start small… Reuse packaging, cut single-use plastics, or digitise paperwork.
Example: Starbucks reduced plastic straws globally by introducing recyclable lids.
Takeaway – Replace plastic bags with cloth/paper, and move invoices online.
Switch to LED lights, use energy-efficient appliances, or schedule equipment downtime.
Example: Infosys in India runs many of its campuses on renewable energy.
Takeaway – Cut your electricity bill and carbon footprint at the same time.
Set up bins for paper, plastics, and e-waste in your office/store.
Example: ITC launched its “Well-being Out of Waste” initiative to recycle paper and plastic.
Takeaway – Partner with local recyclers to make waste management simpler.
Digital tools can replace paper ads, flyers, and physical forms.
Example: Many banks in India now promote paperless banking through mobile apps.
Takeaway – Use email, WhatsApp, or social media for promotions instead of printed flyers.
Select suppliers that utilise sustainable packaging or eco-friendly raw materials.
Example: Tanishq uses recycled gold and responsibly sourced diamonds.
Takeaway – Even small switches, like biodegradable packaging, signal strong brand values.
This reduces daily commuting, cutting emissions and saving energy in the office.
Example: Tech companies like Wipro and TCS promote hybrid work models.
Takeaway – Offer flexible work-from-home options, even for a few days a week.
Solar panels, even small setups, can reduce long-term costs.
Example: Amul has solar-powered facilities in Gujarat.
Takeaway – Explore rooftop solar if you own office or factory space.
Work with vendors who follow corporate environmental management practices.
Example: Tata Motors focuses on eco-innovation in its supply chain.
Takeaway – Ask suppliers about their sustainability practices before partnering.
Promote your eco-friendly steps in a transparent way (without greenwashing).
Example: Patanjali highlights natural ingredients and eco-friendly processes.
Takeaway – Share your eco-efforts with customers via social media or packaging.
Engage in environmental projects, such as tree plantations, water conservation, or clean-ups.
Example: ITC works with farmers for sustainable agriculture.
Takeaway – Join local NGOs for small CSR activities. It boosts both goodwill and employee pride.
Train employees to switch off unused devices, recycle, and think eco-first.
Example: Google has strong employee-led sustainability programs worldwide.
Takeaway – Make sustainability a daily habit across your team, not just a policy.
You don’t need to implement all 11 at once. Start with 2 or 3 strategies that fit your business best, and build from there.
On this World Environmental Health Day, every business owner should consider building a sustainable business, as it protects their future.
Small steps, such as reducing waste, recycling, and adopting eco-friendly practices, can help cut costs, build trust, and make your brand stand out.
As a business coach, I’ve seen small changes create big impact.
Start today, and let your business be known not just for profits… but for PURPOSE too.
I hope you enjoyed reading this, as you have stayed until the end. Check out my blog page for more business insights, tips, & strategies!
None can destroy iron, but its own rust can! Likewise, none can destroy a person, but their own mindset can.
Former chairperson of the Tata Group
800K+
350K+
300K+
80K+
Be the first to receive any new updates
© Copyright Quantum Leap Learning Solutions Pvt Ltd
