Did you know that 50 billion plastic bottles were made from new plastic in 2004? Those plastic bottles are made from PET. PET is a plastic made from fossil fuels, and is used to make everything from plastic containers to the majority of synthetic fabrics. Not only are the bottles hazardous to the environment, but the cost of transporting those bottles has a huge impact on the carbon footprint of the manufacturer and the end consumer. So bottled water is a big industry, but as environmental impact becomes a global concern, producers know that the bottled water business' days are numbered.

The clever entrepreneur will look for ways to maximize profits from those looking to minimize their carbon footprints. This can mean more customers will be using existing businesses built on an eco-friendly model, but also that there are new opportunities out there.

Existing Business Opportunities 

Look into green tech. Making paper involves cutting down forests and loads of toxic chemicals. Helping clients with their networks can mean more than the latest zero trust security. Everyone thought that there would be a paperless economy by this point; it hasn't happened because some don't know how. Look for clients running businesses where they may lack the knowledge to go paper-free. Many construction, catering and other trade-based businesses still need help streamlining their businesses.

Another technology opportunity is developing environmental software. Most large manufacturing and storage facilities have EPA and OSHA requirements to be met for safety and environmental cleanliness. Developing software that will help them more easily meet their requirements is a burgeoning field.

If you're more interested in goods than providing a service, classic businesses like used bookstores and bicycle shops are experiencing a resurgence, but nearly any existing service can go green. Car detailing, house cleaning and lawn maintenance, to aestheticians and stylists, are all businesses that rely on products heavy in chemicals that can damage the environment. By providing those same services with less harsh ingredients that won't damage the waterways, land and animals you can create a niche market that is only going to expand.

Up and Coming Business Opportunities

Classic businesses are ones where you can do the research, see what's worked in the past and where the gaps are. Newer environmental businesses may offer a higher risk as you create your own market, sometimes for a product or service no one knew they needed before, but the rewards are commensurate with the risk.

Consider sustainable construction. Solar power for new and existing construction is a rapidly expanding field requiring companies that sell and install the newest environmentally-friendly materials. America's infrastructure is aging and as it is replaced, new sustainable materials made from recycled plastic are replacing concrete and steel. As electric cars become more pervasive, there are more places to charge cars, but not always where they are needed. One of the continuing shortcomings of electric vehicles is their inability to go further than 250 or so miles. A pay-for-use charging station along a major interstate, or even a series of well-placed stations could give you a corner on the market.

On a less industrial level and requiring less up-front investment, consider a business selling handmade and eco-friendly products. Just like the water bottles, most of our clothes are now made from PET, which is clogging up the waterways with every load of laundry. Etsy and farmers' markets are great places to sell organic and all-natural goods like soaps and skin products, as well as clothing or other textiles made from organic and sustainable fabrics.

As more people turn to buying local, reducing carbon emissions from transporting goods, local and natural are going to be the name of the game. With a large or small investment, a green business can keep you in the black.