Running a zero-waste business always starts with passion. Passion for the products, passion for ‘being better’ and passion for the planet. In order to ensure that you’re going to have the most impact, you need to consider all elements of your business from manufacturing and supply chain to the packaging that you use. Laetitia Van De Walle is the founder of French-based zero waste lifestyle brand, Lamazuna and here she gives 5 tips on how you can better serve as a zero-waste founder.
Tip 1
Being a zero-waste business founder means continually learning and developing and continually improving all elements of our business to ensure we’re having the biggest impact possible on the people and the planet.
Tip 2
When thinking about setting up a zero-waste business, why not go one better and try to go organic and use locally sourced ingredients too. Be confident that you have a real, engaged eco-minded audience that is waiting for your product. As consumer demand for environmentally-focused businesses increases, people are placing greater importance on the brands and the products they choose to support. Being truly committed to being the best version of yourself is vital in attracting these consumers.
Tip 3
So just how important is passion? Very. Creating an ethical zero-waste business goes against the grain of traditional business. From your investors to your bank, being truly ethical means you’re often pushed to go against business advice and follow your own path. This can sometimes feel scary, but knowing you’re going in the right direction and prioritising people and the planet is always what gets me through. This is where passion comes in. Those businesses that set up ethical companies and have no passion for the world in which we live, will struggle to cut through. Passion is what drives us when times are tough.
Tip 4
Having a passion for people and the planet is also vital for preventing greenwash. As a zero-waste business ensuring that you’re truly committed to the cause is vital, choose your mission based on your heart and not profit.
Tip 5
Remember, it’s not about perfection, it’s about being transparent and striving to be better. You’re not going to make all the right choices straight away, but ensuring you learn from your mistakes is essential. No business is perfect, but getting aligned on your mission for doing better for people and the planet will help your zero-waste business thrive.
