With Earth Day just around the corner on April 22, it’s a good time to think about the importance of Earth-friendly and sustainable products, both to the environment—and our shoppers.
More and more consumers are interested in local fruits and vegetables, paper goods made from recycled materials and other environmentally-friendly products. And according to a recent Harris poll, 79 percent of Americans seek out so-called “green” products and 31 percent are willing to pay extra for them. With a little detective work, you can take advantage of this to not only make the Earth a healthier place—but also to increase your sales.
Start by making an effort to scan labels to see where a product is made. Is it local to your state? Or even a nearby town? Let the customer know about it. For example, say “This jam not only tastes great—it’s made right here in [Pennsylvania/Pittsburg, Arizona/Mesa, etc.].” The less distance products have to be shipped, the less impact they have on the environment.
Also check labels for buzzwords like “organic,” “non-GMO,” “fair trade” and “hormone-free.” All of these indicate the item is more likely to be produced and/or sourced in a way that’s better for the environment. For example, “organic farming systems reduce pollution, protect our waterways, and make the Earth a cleaner place,” says Diane Welland, Registered Dietitian and author of The Complete Idiot’s Guide to Eating Clean, in an article for Today’s Dietitian.
Highlight products that have eco-friendly ways of preparation, too. For example, cooking foods in the microwave or toaster oven uses much less energy than a stovetop or regular oven. And that brings up an important point—going green doesn’t always have to mean paying more. Remind shoppers that taking just a little more time to choose the right products can have big impact on the environment, but not their wallets.