Posted on December, 11 2014

How to start an eco-friendly small-scale business

We all want to see the world develop in a desirable and sustainable way. Many people need to improve their standard of living. The distribution of resources between people must be changed. It is also necessary to adapt our consumption patterns to match the carrying capacity of nature.

Lifestyles that result in the depletion of natural resources, biodiversity loss and climate change are not sustainable. Much has to be changed. We need dedicated politicians prepared to take responsible decisions. We need a large number of individuals acting consciously to contribute to a better world – however this by itself is not enough. We all want to make a good living.

If we are able to provide services and products that are needed in the market this will enable us support a healthy and secure lifestyle. This can also be a good way of contributing to an eco-friendly and sustainable development of the local community. A small-scale business initiative can be a tool to provide desirable development of local society.

This is what this handbook is all about. It sets forth a structure for the development of economically profi table, socially responsible and eco-friendly small-scale business initiatives. The handbook focuses upon students in formal and non-formal education, but since it builds upon a methodology for the development of small-scale business in the local community it can also be used for groups of adults. You can learn about small-scale business by examining the development of a business idea in the light of the methodology described in this book.

An even better option is to develop a real business initiative as part of your schoolwork. Starting an eco-friendly and desirable business activity, either by yourself or together with others, is both challenging and rewarding. Of course your initiative should be profi table, but it is just as important to gain valuable knowledge by practising what you learn. Learning by doing will give you entrepreneurial experience you can use throughout your entire life!

Original report dated: 11.06.2014