Financial advisors who demonstrate they’re operating their practice in an environmentally responsible manner may have a strategic advantage.

A recent TD Canada Trust Green Business Survey that reveals that 38% of Canadians say that they “want to buy from a business that cares about the environment.” An additional 20 per cent of Canadians are even more passionate and want businesses to know that “if you are not considering the environment, your business may suffer.”

“Our research also shows that more than one quarter of Canadians would consider paying more for goods and services if the company can demonstrate environmentally responsible business practices,” says Karen Clarke-Whistler, TD’s chief environment officer and moderator of the upcoming Going green webinar for small business owners.

The survey also revealed that nearly 40% of Canadians say they seek out environmentally responsible products and services. “No matter how big or small the business, making a few changes could easily reduce a company’s environmental footprint and help them stand out to increasingly environmentally conscious consumers,” says Clarke-Whistler.

Reducing energy and fuel use, saving paper and greening the supply chain are areas where business owners can reduce their environmental impact and save money.

“More and more we’re hearing from customers who are taking steps to green their businesses — they know that environmentally responsible practices are good for both the environment and their businesses,” says Alec Morley, Senior Vice President, Small Business Banking, TD Canada Trust.

“We want small business owners to know they can take simple steps that can green their businesses, save them money, and ultimately attract more customers.”

TD Canada Trust has produced a webinar to explain how an improved environmental performance can benefit small business.

On April 13 at 12:00 ET, business owners are encouraged to participate in the free TD Canada Trust Small Business webinar: Going green can make good business sense.

To participate in the webinar visit: http://www.tdcanadatrust.com/smallbusiness/webinars.jsp.

The TD Canada Trust survey polled adult Canadians from across the country to explore the relationship between consumers and environmentally responsible businesses. The survey was conducted by Angus Reid Public Opinion on March 30, with English and French speaking Canadians 18+. The sample size includes 1,006 men and women.

IE