Green business models allow for the opportunity of recycling and reusing materials repeatedly. The other assets of profits and people come together to shape the business model for sustainable practices too.

There is a special type of model that allows for sustainability. In contract to the ‘take, make and waste’ approach or linear economy model that mines raw materials and processes this into a product with the product eventually discarded, the circular economy model changes the way in which production impacts the environment. The perspectives of these two concepts are complete opposites. The linear economy model is short term, from sales to purchase. The circular economy model is more long term, and is centred around three principles that reduce negative impacts:

• Design out waste and pollution. The negative impacts from the use of resources is minimized, including toxic chemicals, greenhouse gases, and any other air, water and land pollution.
• Keep products and materials in use. The reuse of products is maximized so materials keep circulating in the system.
• Regenerate natural systems. Renewable resources are used as opposed to nonrenewable resources, and raw materials are recycled too.

With these steps, some materials can safely re-enter the natural world, while some must go through the cycle because they cannot re-enter the environment. Included in this second category are plastics and metals. Using this circular economy method will allow metal from jewellery to cycle through to be reused repeatedly.

Here are additional ways for sustainability in your business model that are separated into the three pillars.

Planet

• Your key manufacturing partners should be powered efficiently. This includes any in-house production and/or any outsourcing during the production process. Invest in using energy-efficient practices, like renewable energy or LED lighting for power, reducing waste and emissions, and reusing materials.
  
  
• Making custom jewellery pieces a part of your business model can allow for sustainability. Compared to mass-produced pieces, custom pieces are usually one-of-a-kind so you will be able to manage the environmental impact more easily.
  
  
• Look into your distribution channels. With an online jewellery business, your primary way to distribute products is through the mail. One of the simplest tasks is minimizing packaging materials and offering lightweight, biodegradable or compostable packaging. Consider purchasing jewellery boxes or bags made from recycled materials. It may not seem like a huge project to switch to these materials, but it can make a big difference in the long run.
  
  
• Turn your marketing green. Share your company’s sustainability efforts with your audience. Avoid green washing, which is marketing environmentalism without partaking in any efforts. As a result of sustainability, there may be higher prices and customers will want to stay informed through marketing. You can find multiple creative ways to highlight your company’s efforts.
  
  
• Work with suppliers that are transparent about their practices and select raw materials that are sustainable. By sourcing materials wisely, you can change your business model for the better to minimize unethical labor and damaging extraction methods. Check out THESE ARTICLES to learn more about these topics.
  
  
• Inform customers of ways they can help reduce environmental impact. In addition to helping the environment, you will be able to build a stronger relationship with customers. Encourage recycling or reusing of packaging for other purposes. Cleaning jewellery is essential to retain the lasting shine, but some jewellery cleaners can be full of mysterious, harmful chemicals that can be toxic to the environment. Recommend eco-friendly brands or ingredients that will get the job done and even consider selling some to bring in additional revenue. Some natural ingredients include baking soda, vinegar, natural dish soap and a dry cloth are safe and effective. On a side note, it is essential to list in detail how to clean jewellery with these products and what materials can withstand it to reduce the risk of damage. For example, select gemstones are delicate to certain materials and are absorbent to liquids.

Profit

• Invest profit in sustainability projects. The inclusion of this pillar makes it possible for corporations to come on board with sustainability strategies. This ensures your business is making a profit to while also not causing any environmental or social issues.

People

• Look in the working conditions of businesses that are linked with your company. This relates to suppliers, manufactures, and distributors. Is child labor used for the mining of your raw materials? Are workers paid fairly? How are the working conditions? These are some questions to consider because you do not want your business associated with a company that does not follow ethical practices. Low costs may be associated with these companies, but sustainability is not and eliminating these practices will put your business one step closer toward sustainability.
  
  
• Equality and diversity are not just fundamental human rights. They are critical ingredients for sustainability. Enforce diversity by being respectful of gender, racial, and ethnicity differences. Fair employee treatment and community building leads to increased productivity in the long run and will allow for a welcoming workplace. Whether it’s skills training or women empowerment, the people pillar is an important component.

Switching to a sustainable model can do good for your jewellery company with profit opportunities, greater security of supply chain, increased product demand, and greater customer loyalty. Replacing any unsustainable practices will make your jewellery business more feasible in the long run. When first beginning the transition, taking small steps is fine before immediately jumping on the train.