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Oct 3, 2008 3:30 pm US/Eastern
Green Businesses Sprout Despite Downturn
BERWYN, Pa. (CBS 3) ―
Small green businesses are sprouting all over the Lehigh Valley,
but starting a small business is tough in an economic downturn. As CBS 3's Liz
Keptner shows us, they're hoping that green gives them an edge.
Karen Parsons opened Main Line Green Home in Berwyn in September. She sells natural lotions, tables and stools
made from wine barrels, purses made from recycled inner tubes, and more
products for people who think globally.
"They want to be green, but they still want to shop
for their beautiful things," said Parsons.
At Big Green Earth Store in Center City Philadelphia,
which opened three months ago, you can recycle your own batteries, buy
recyclable plastic plates, even refill your own cleaner bottles, said co-owner
Tony Fisher.
"Our refilling station is by far the most popular
product. Very close to that is our
stainless steel water bottles," said Fisher.
Both of these green stores opened in an economic slowdown.
"The last couple of days have been really slow,
partly because of the weather and also the news," said Parsons.
"We've pulled out our retirement accounts and done
everything to try to survive through this," said Fisher.
But being green might help. A study by TNS in May showed that 53% of
Americans are willing to pay more for an item if it's green.
Both Tony Fisher and Karen Parsons stress fair trade and
good stewardship. They hope customers
see value beyond the price tag.
"I don't want to buy anything that has been made on
the misery of another human being," said Parsons.
"We're trying to show people that you don't have to
be a superhero to save the planet, but you sure will feel like one when you
do," said Fisher.
RELATED LINKS:
VIDEO TOUR OF THESE
Main Line Green Home in Berwyn,
PA
http://mainlinegreenhome.com/
Big Green Earth Store in Center
City, PA
http://biggreenearthstore.com/
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