Want to support women entrepreneurs? Try these eco-friendly ideas - The Augusta Chronicle

October 10, 2026 Malcolm Knoll Business

13 Eco-Friendly Ways to Celebrate Women’s Small Business Month

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Want to support women entrepreneurs? Try these eco-friendly ideas

Erica Van Buren

Augusta Chronicle

October marks National Women’s Small Business Month, a time to recognize and support women entrepreneurs across the nation. According to the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA), women-owned businesses play a significant role in the U.S. economy.

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) emphasizes that source reduction – preventing waste before it’s created – is the most environmentally responsible approach. It conserves natural resources, saves energy, reduces pollution and greenhouse gas emissions, and can lower costs for consumers and businesses.

Here are 13 eco-friendly ways to celebrate Women’s Small Business Month, drawn from the SBA, EPA, and other sustainability organizations:

  • Shop at women-owned local businesses: Support your community by buying from local women-owned businesses. This reduces transportation emissions and keeps money circulating locally.

  • Support women-owned farms and food producers: Visit local farms, farmers markets, bakeries, and food businesses owned by women. Locally sourced food typically travels shorter distances, minimizing transportation impacts.

  • Create gift baskets with Georgia-made products: Instead of mass-produced gifts, assemble baskets with products made by Georgia women entrepreneurs, like local honey, jams, candles, soaps, coffee, or handmade crafts.

  • Bring reusable shopping bags: When shopping at women-owned retailers, bring your own reusable bags and decline unnecessary packaging to reduce waste.

  • Support businesses with sustainable practices: Look for women-owned companies committed to sustainability through recycled materials, waste reduction, water conservation, and energy efficiency.

  • Give sustainable gifts: Purchase reusable, locally sourced, handmade, upcycled, or environmentally friendly products from women-owned businesses.

  • Use low-carbon transportation: Attend events during October using walking, biking, or public transit to reduce your carbon footprint.

  • Share women-owned businesses on social media: A simple online recommendation can raise awareness without consuming physical resources.

  • Participate in virtual workshops: Instead of traveling, join online training sessions or webinars focused on women entrepreneurs offered by the SBA and other organizations.

  • Mentor aspiring entrepreneurs: Share your expertise and mentor future business owners virtually or in-person, making a lasting impact with minimal resources.

  • Host a zero-waste networking event: If organizing an event, use reusable dishes, digi-invites, and minimize waste.

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