Game-Changing Ways Entrepreneurs Can Go Green Entrepreneurs are essential to developing real solutions to climate change. While we can't stop global warming overnight, businesses that reduce their environmental impact, both spark innovation and drive the global green economy.

By Shooka Bidarian Edited by Patricia Cullen

Opinions expressed by Entrepreneur contributors are their own.

You're reading Entrepreneur United Kingdom, an international franchise of Entrepreneur Media.

Shutterstock
Bidarian has worked with some of the top organisations in the world, including Sony Pictures, Change Now, University College London, and she was trained in environmental issues by former Vice President of the United States, Al Gore

The good news is the global economy is shifting, with over $ 10 trillion spent every year on the green economy and over $30 trillion now invested in companies that prioritise both profit and planet. This means that sustainability is no longer just an ethical stance—it gives you a competitive edge. Green entrepreneurs aren't just protecting the environment; they're tapping into new markets, attracting investors, and future-proofing their businesses for long-term success. So, how can entrepreneurs go green—and thrive while doing it? Here are five powerful ways to lead the charge.

1- Set Realistic Targets To Cut Emissions
You can't reduce what you don't measure. The first step is to count your carbon—not just within your company but across your entire value chain, where emissions are often over 11 times greater than operational emissions. By making emissions visible, you can identify where the biggest reductions can happen and set clear, reasonable, science- backed targets using frameworks like the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi). But don't stop there. Publish an annual environmental audit to the highest international
standards and push beyond carbon neutrality. Set bigger goals. Strive to be carbon negative, removing more emissions than you produce. The businesses leading the way aren't just cutting carbon—they're redefining what's possible.

2- Energy Matters!
How entrepreneurs source and use energy directly impacts both their carbon footprint and their bottom line. A quick energy review can reveal easy wins, like switching off unused electronics or replacing outdated lighting with LEDs. Small changes add up fast. For bigger impacts, switch to renewable energy through green energy suppliers or power purchase agreements (PPAs). Where possible, generate on-site renewable
energy—like solar or wind—to cut emissions and costs. This not only reduces your footprint and costs but also strengthens your green credentials, boosting your reputation as a sustainable business. Even better, green businesses are attracting more investors. The rise of impact investing means venture capitalists and angel investors are backing companies that prioritise profit and planet.

3- Revolutionise Your Supply and Value Chain
Your supply chain is one of your greatest business risks and sustainability opportunities. In fact, supply chains can be responsible for up to four times your company's own operational emissions and as much as 90% of your total environmental impact. A well-optimised sustainable supply chain not only lowers emissions but also strengthens financial performance, increases operational resilience and reduces company risk.

Start by scrutinising every stage of your supply chain: where materials come from, how products are made, transported and distributed. Make sustainability a priority when choosing suppliers, ensuring their practices align with your environmental commitments. Collaboration is key. Work closely with vendors to implement greener solutions, such as reducing packaging waste and switching to lower-carbon transport options. To monitor progress, conduct annual audits that assess performance against sustainability KPIs and carbon reduction targets. Additionally, introducing a responsible procurement policy that prioritises eco-friendly products and services will further reinforce your commitment to sustainability.

4- Uplift Your Workforce - They Are Your Heroes
Your employees are your secret weapon as they want to drive the company's sustainability agenda - so empower them. Employees need to understand the company's carbon footprint and how they can help reduce it. Providing clear leadership and direction from the top ensures employees feel motivated and equipped to take action. These initiatives can be reinforced through internal communications,
engagement programs, and dedicated training sessions. Creating spaces for employees to share ideas, exchange knowledge, and connect with senior management fosters innovation. To build on this, recognising and rewarding employees who contribute to sustainability efforts helps embed these initiatives into the
company culture. Incentives such as awards and bonuses shift sustainability from a standalone project to an essential, integrated function of the business. All of this makes it easier for your company to attract and retain the best talent - which of course drives your business forward.

5- Vision and Ambition Fuel Bigger Profits
When shaping your company from the ground up, embed long-term sustainability goals into your core values. Define a clear vision, set priorities, and map out tangible actions to achieve them.
Businesses that think ahead don't just survive—they thrive. Climate leadership is directly linked to superior financial performance, proving that sustainability isn't a cost but a key driver of profitability. Companies that integrate sustainability into their strategy foster stronger, more resilient growth. Corporations that actively address climate risks see 67% higher returns than those that fail to act. A clear sustainability vision doesn't just mitigate risk—it unlocks innovation, improves efficiency, increases investment and helps attract and retain the best employees.

Businesses prioritising sustainability are also more likely to tap into new revenue streams, from green products and low-carbon supply chains to regulatory incentives that reward responsible practices. The world is accelerating towards a net zero emission future and entrepreneurs that can accelerate this transition will be creating the businesses that make our future.

Shooka Bidarian

Environment, sustainability and climate change expert

Shooka has worked with some of the top organisations in the world, including Sony Pictures, Change Now, University College London, and she was trained in environmental issues by former Vice President of the United States, Al Gore.  Shooka is an activist, and educator at heart, and she has presented and produced a number of hard hitting, informative documentaries that have been shown worldwide.  Shooka is bilingual, and her documentaries and content reflects this.  She is a passionate climate activist and believes that taking care of the environment is the responsibility of every individual on Earth. It is everyone's responsibility to provide a habitable place for future generations and to act upon the critical climate crisis. Shooka recently undertook an MSc in Sustainable Development at Sussex University (currently ranked number one in the world for this subject). This degree not only delved into development challenges at local and global levels but also provided a comprehensive introduction to ESG and cutting-edge solutions to environmental issues and the politics of the net zero transition.

Making a Change

Learn 14 Languages for Life with Babbel

Thanks to this StackSocial exclusive, you pay $129.99 just once, no subscription.

Leadership

How to Create a Winning Strategic Plan for 2025

When preparing for 2025 and all the unknowns the future inevitably holds, a thorough strategic plan is critical to driving meaningful outcomes for any business.

Business News

Are You Leaving Work Before 5 P.M.? You're Not Alone, the Workday Is Actually Getting Shorter, According to a New Report.

ActivTrak's newly released 2025 "State of the Workplace" report found that the average American workday is ending at around 4:39 p.m.

Business News

'No One Is Paying What They Used to': Job Hopping Isn't As Lucrative As It Used to Be, According to New Data

The data shows that switching jobs yields only slightly more salary growth than staying put.

Money & Finance

How Golden Visas and Second Passports Are Transforming Wealth Strategies

As financial strategies evolve, golden visas and second passports have emerged as essential tools for safeguarding wealth, optimizing tax exposure and ensuring personal freedom.

Business News

'A Game Changer': Klarna Becomes Walmart's Exclusive Buy-Now-Pay-Later Provider

A Klarna loan option through One Pay will soon be available when checking out at Walmart.