Economy Makes It Tough To Be Green
Becoming More Green:
Given the perception that fewer customers value being environmentally friendly in the current economy, it is not surprising that fewer owners (37%) are taking steps to show their customers they are environmentally friendly than was the case in 2007 (47%).
Still Making an Effort to Be Green:
Although small-business owners perceive less demand for “green” goods, about half say their companies are doing as much as possible (18%) or everything that can be justified by cost (33%) to help the environment.
Small-business owners’ perceptions that their customers are less willing to pay more for environmentally friendly products and services are most likely correct. Current economic conditions seemed to have changed consumer views of the economic growth versus environmental preservation trade-off.
Source: Gallop. Dennis Jacobe, Chief Economist