The planet could use some help. The founders in this section agree. They’re building companies focused on sustainability, clean energy, environmental technology, and the idea that business can grow without everything else shrinking.
These interviews cover the full eco-friendly business landscape. Renewable energy. Sustainable consumer products. Waste reduction. Clean tech. Carbon offset platforms. The companies trying to solve environmental problems while also being financially viable. Because the best green business is one that stays in business.
What makes these founders interesting is the pragmatism. They’re idealistic enough to tackle enormous problems and realistic enough to know that good intentions don’t pay the bills. The conversations here balance mission with business model in a way that’s refreshing.
You’ll find insights on sustainable supply chains, green certifications, consumer behavior around eco-friendly products, and the challenge of competing on price when doing things the right way costs more. Also the fundraising landscape for green companies, which has its own dynamics. If you care about building businesses that leave the world a little better, these are your people.
[quote style=”boxed”]“Early to bed, early to rise, work like hell and advertise!” I actually can’t take credit for making that up. Ted Turner and I were sitting next to each…
Meet John Shegerian – CEO of Electronic Recyclers International
[quote style=”boxed”]Do your homework, do as much market research you can effort – keep the customer in mind all the time.[/quote] Award-winning designer, Harald Kanz, founded KANZ Outdoors LLC in…
[quote style=”boxed”]Walk before you run. Early on we spent money on things like advertising that we as a company were simply not ready for. You will get pitched by advertisers, consultants,…
[quote style=”boxed”]I think the bigger challenge is staying focused on the right ideas, and putting the other ideas aside in order to make the right ones happen. Focus is key.[/quote]…
[quote style=”boxed”]I would have immediately sold my house and paid off all my debts in order to reduce my personal burn rate to the absolute minimum.[/quote] By the time his…
[quote style=”boxed”]I bring ideas to life by identifying what I can bring to a tension or challenge, finding the community of people who can support, teach and challenge me about…
[quote]I would say stay curious and push yourself to do something new and different. Take risks. Not only about your business, but about other things you’re passionate about and people…
[quote style=”boxed”]Similar to a stand-up comic, I first test my material with people who are close to me. If they tell me the idea sucks, I’ll ask a bunch of…
[quote style=”boxed”]Start every day by asking yourself, ‘What am I going to do today to improve the business or product/service that I’m selling?’ If you are not happy with yesterday,…
[quote style=”boxed”]With experience, I’ve come to realize it is okay to hear [naysayers] out and then move on. Don’t let them drain you or your energy.[/quote] Brian is a startup…
From at-home mushroom farms to reusable diapers to bamboo bikes, the ideas of the following green entrepreneurs we interviewed are unexpected, effective and earth-friendly. We’d like to take a minute…
[quote style=”boxed”]Be passionate. Be diligent. Have integrity. Provide exceptional service. Show gratitude.[/quote] Vina Lustado is the founder of Sol Haus Design, a firm that specializes in sustainable building. After receiving…