A while ago, I was told I should start to use environment friendly or green practices in my jewelry making. The topic is quite hot and it would be good for marketing my shop. Besides, the number of people searching for "green" or "eco-friendly" tags is growing, so it would get me more exposure.
My first reaction was "What makes you think I don't take environmentally conscious decisions?". The second was, "Should we only act responsibly because it brings in good marketing?".
As a matter of fact, I do think all my process through and make it as environmentally responsible as I can. Strictly speaking, I must say that producing a luxury product will never be 100% environmentally friendly (I am sure that the metal would be better in the earth and the energy to refine it and, eventually, recycle it, unspent). But I make sure I recycle every last scrap of metal, I group projects in order to minimize energy waste, I avoid harsh chemicals and use proper disposal procedures.
Now, why don't I mention this in my listings, shop description, etc? Because I see this as a necessary part of doing business, like paying taxes, using responsible sources and not cheating anyone. Those would hardly be interesting tags, would they? "100% of taxes paid on this item!". I don't respect the environment to make a buck, but because it is part of being a responsible and sustainable business.
Wonderful. When everyone looks at living this way, that's when we'll see the change we so desire! When green living becomes habit instead of trend. Great post. :)
ReplyDeleteSpot on Beatriz! I also struggle with this. When we buy silver from suppliers a lot of it is recycled silver, but some jewelry sellers will use that to get more buyers, while others try to do the best they can and not boast about it.
ReplyDeleteI totally agree with you. I think the same way. I wash my clothes with green detergent, use green shampoo and conditioner, cleaning agents, etc and try to use green plastic (biodegradable plastic) when packaging food and stuff. To me thats just a way of life. But I suppose I should point out to my buyers that I use recycled metals etc, because if I were buying from me, I'd want to know that....
ReplyDeleteEven though it would be lovely if it were commonplace, the fact is that we're not quite there yet! I definitely think you should point it out to buyers, I always look for that and appreciate a shop that makes the extra effort. (They often get my repeat business too!) Maybe seeing it will encourage another to do the same. :)
ReplyDeleteThat's an interesting point. It's easy to get caught up in saying what will sell. On the other hand, I don't think you're necessarily doing something wrong by letting buyers know about your practices, because some truly are looking for confirmation before they buy, for good reasons, if that makes sense.
ReplyDeleteHey Beatriz, Thanks for your comment on my blog. When I tried to publish it it disappeared!
ReplyDeleteBut thank you...Hans