Does Green Cost More?
How You Know It's Green | Why Go Green? | Does Green Cost More? | Green Glossary
Although almost no one can deny the benefits of sustainability, many consumers question why sustainable or green supplies cost more. Fact is, they don't always. Hundreds of GSB's green products actually cost less than their non-green alternatives. But some products do cost a little more. Why?
Although in a perfect world, products that endanger and pollute should cost more and green products should cost less, sustainable products are subject to the same market forces as anything else. Because green products are often manufactured in smaller quantities by smaller companies that compete against multi-national corporations whose mass-produced products are made cheaply overseas, they may cost more initially.
However, with increased demand, more competition will arise, which will result in lower prices. Also, as companies such as GSB continue to purchase in higher volume, we leverage more buying power and gain greater discount potential.
By buying green, you not only help your businesses and the environment, you also help bring prices down for the future, further protecting people, the planet, and our communities.
Finally, though it may seem that for some items the initial price may be higher for green, consider that the products may actually, in the long run, save time and money, because:
- Green products may be more durable and longer lasting.
- Green products may be more concentrated, or in the case of some eco paints and sealants, have higher coverage rates so less product is used.
- Green products may be easier to use because they don’t need expensive protective equipment.
- Green products may save time and money because they don’t have special clean-up requirements.
- Green products may be easier to re-use and recycle.
