Greenpreneurship: An Initiative towards a Sustainable Economy

By, Ainan Nur ‘Iffah

Hey! Do you love to go shopping? If so, what do you usually shop for—clothes, accessories, shoes? Have you ever considered what happens to these items once they reach the end of their life cycle? They often end up as waste, contributing to environmental pollution. But fear not, as green businesses are on the rise, providing sustainable alternatives to the everyday products we use. As climate change continues to impact our planet, companies are stepping up with innovative solutions to promote sustainability. These businesses focus on every step of production—from manufacturing and packaging to distribution and waste management. In this article, I’ll share the benefits of supporting green businesses, address common misconceptions, and offer guidance on how you can start your very own green business. By supporting these businesses, we can work together to create a more sustainable future for all.

In Malaysia, greenhouse gas emissions are primarily driven by electricity usage, which accounts for 80 percent of the country’s emissions. The economy, particularly the manufacturing sector, plays a significant role in this environmental issue. This is why some forward-thinking companies have adopted greener practices in their operations to reduce emissions and minimize their environmental footprint. Notable examples include The Green Factory, which specializes in creating furniture and home decorations from sustainable wood products, Kapten Batik, a brand that produces handmade batik clothing while supporting local artisans, and UNPLUG, a department store offering eco-conscious products ranging from apparel to home items. These companies demonstrate that business success can be achieved while prioritizing sustainability, proving that innovation and environmental responsibility can go hand-in-hand.

Taken from website of UNPLUG

Supporting green businesses not only helps reduce environmental harm but also brings multiple benefits to consumers. First and foremost, supporting sustainable businesses contributes to the well-being of the planet, which ultimately leads to the betterment of our own lives. When businesses prioritize eco-friendly practices, they help reduce harmful chemicals and toxins in products, leading to cleaner air, water, and soil for everyone. Moreover, as the demand for green products grows, it creates more job opportunities in industries related to sustainability, helping to foster a greener economy. Additionally, sustainable products tend to last longer, allowing consumers to reduce their spending over time while benefiting from high-quality, durable goods.

Despite the clear advantages, there are several misconceptions about green businesses that may deter potential supporters. One common myth is that sustainable products are far more expensive than conventional alternatives due to their production process. However, when you examine the facts, you will find that many sustainable products are priced similarly to their non-sustainable counterparts. Even when sustainable products are slightly more expensive, they often last much longer, making them a more cost-effective choice in the long run. Another misconception is that green businesses have little to no impact on the environment. While it is true that the individual impact of one business may seem minimal, the collective effort of numerous green businesses and their consumers can create significant environmental change. For example, Zus Coffee, a popular Malaysian coffee chain, promotes sustainability by offering biodegradable straws made from rice. With so many people drinking coffee daily, this seemingly small initiative can greatly reduce plastic waste in landfills. This demonstrates that every action, no matter how small it may seem, contributes to the bigger picture.

So, how can we find more green businesses to support? Better yet, why not start one ourselves? Launching a green business is not only rewarding but also necessary in today’s world. To begin, identify a niche that aligns with your passion and the needs of the community. Whether it’s producing eco-friendly products, offering sustainable services, or reducing waste, there are countless opportunities to create a business with a positive environmental impact. Start small, focus on ethical sourcing, and ensure that sustainability is embedded in every aspect of your operations—from production to packaging and distribution. It’s also crucial to educate your customers about the benefits of sustainable living, helping them make informed decisions that support a greener future.

The growth of green businesses is essential for a sustainable future, and it is up to all of us to support and encourage their expansion. By choosing to purchase from sustainable businesses, we contribute to a cleaner, healthier environment while helping to create jobs and stimulate the green economy. Furthermore, we can all play a part in supporting these businesses and, even better, starting our own. Together, we can foster a more sustainable world for future generations. Let’s make the conscious choice to support green businesses and make a lasting impact on the planet.***