October is National Women's Small Business Month, a time to recognize women entrepreneurs and support women-owned businesses.
The U.S. Small Business Administration says women-owned businesses continue to be a major force in the U.S. economy and encourages communities to celebrate and support them throughout October.
Source reduction, or preventing waste before it is created, is the most environmentally preferred strategy because it conserves natural resources, saves energy, reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and can lower costs for consumers and businesses, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
Here are 13 eco-friendly ways to celebrate
Women's Small Business Month, based on information from the U.S. Small Business Administration, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and other sustainability organizations.
Shop at women-owned local businesses
Buying from women-owned businesses in your community can reduce transportation emissions associated with long-distance shipping while keeping more money circulating in the local economy. Local businesses also tend to reinvest more in their communities.
Support women-owned farms and food producers
Visit women-owned farms, farmers markets, bakeries and food businesses in your area. Locally produced food often travels shorter distances than products shipped across the country, helping reduce transportation impacts while supporting small businesses.
Build a gift basket with Georgia-made products
Instead of purchasing mass-produced gifts, create a basket filled with products made by Georgia women entrepreneurs, such as local honey, jams, candles, soaps, coffee or handmade crafts.
Bring reusable shopping bags
When supporting women-owned retailers, bring reusable bags and decline unnecessary packaging. The Environmental Protection Agency encourages reuse as a way to reduce waste and limit the use of single-use products.
Support businesses with sustainable practices
Look for women-owned companies that use recycled materials, reduce waste, conserve water or prioritize energy efficiency. These practices can help lower environmental impacts while promoting long-term sustainability.
Give sustainable gifts
Purchase reusable, locally sourced, handmade, upcycled or environmentally friendly products from women-owned businesses. Doing so celebrates women entrepreneurs while supporting more sustainable purchasing choices.
Walk, bike or use public transit to events
Many communities host networking events, vendor fairs and small-business showcases during October. Choosing low-carbon transportation can further reduce your environmental footprint.
Share women-owned businesses on social media
A social media recommendation can help raise awareness without consuming physical resources. Consider spotlighting a local entrepreneur, sharing her story or recommending a favorite product or service.
Participate in virtual workshops
Instead of traveling to an event, consider attending online training sessions or educational webinars focused on women entrepreneurs. The SBA and related organizations regularly offer business training and counseling opportunities.
Mentor aspiring entrepreneurs
Sharing professional expertise and mentoring future business owners can have a lasting impact while requiring few physical resources. Women's Business Centers provide training, counseling and support for entrepreneurs across the country.
Host a zero-waste networking event
If your organization is celebrating Women's Small Business Month, consider using reusable dishes, digital invitations, refillable water stations, and clearly marked recycling or composting stations to reduce waste.
Support environmentally certified businesses
Seek out women-owned businesses that participate in programs such as ENERGY STAR or other sustainability initiatives. These programs help businesses reduce energy use, lower utility costs and minimize environmental impacts.
This reporting content is supported by a partnership with Journalism Funding Partners.
Erica Van Buren is the climate change reporter for The Augusta Chronicle, part of the USA TODAY Network. Connect with her at EVanBuren@usatodayco.com or on X: @EricaVanBuren32.
This article originally appeared on Augusta Chronicle: Want to support women entrepreneurs? Try these eco-friendly ideas
