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The business of ‘sustainability’

December 4, 2009  By Dave Harrison


EDITOR'S BLOG

The business of 'sustainability'

The issue of sustainability is continuing to evolve, and the
greenhouse industry will be challenged to keep up with consumer expectations.


Dec. 4, 2009 – The issue of sustainability is continuing to evolve, and the
greenhouse industry will be challenged to keep up with consumer expectations.

Or will it?

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We’re about as green as any other industry, and that’s a huge
consideration at retail.

Lifestyles of Health and Sustainability (LOHAS) is an
organization that describes an estimated $209 billion U.S. marketplace for
sustainable goods and services. “The consumers attracted to this market
represent a sizable group in this country,” notes the web site (www.lohas.com).
“Approximately 19 per cent of the adults in the U.S., or 41 million people, are
currently considered LOHAS Consumers.”

Walmart recently announced its Sustainability Index. The
company says its customers “want to know the product’s entire lifecycle. They
want to know the materials in the product are safe, that it is made well and is
produced in a responsible way.”

When Walmart talks, consumers listen. Competitors, too.

• Compared to five years ago, are you incorporating more
“sustainability” measures into your operations, into your marketing, and into
your lifestyle?

• If
not, are you planning a New Year’s resolution to boost your “green”
initiatives? Do you think it really is good for business … or is it only media
hype?


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