Growth & Jobs | Eco Smart promoting sustainable living

AS THE awareness for eco-conscious living increases, businesses are rising to the challenge of meeting the demand for sustainable products. Among those championing the cause is Kerry-Ann Willis, co-founder of Eco Smart, providers of innovative and eco-friendly products designed for everyday use.

“I wanted to create products that were safe, sustainable, and made from natural ingredients, while addressing the growing need for eco-conscious solutions,” shared Willis.

Willis’ journey into eco-conscious entrepreneurship was sparked by a deep-rooted passion for creating products that prioritise human safety, while addressing the pressing issues of pollution and excessive waste. Her academic background, including a bachelor of science in geography from The University of the West Indies, further fuelled her commitment to environmental conservation and solidified her mission to champion sustainable living through innovative solutions.

Eco Smart, an online store accessible on Instagram @ecosmart_natural_deodorant, offers a range of eco-friendly products, including natural deodorants, tongue scrapers, recyclable drinking straws and burlap shopping bags. Beyond these offerings, Willis has authored children’s books, Ziggy, the Island Superhero that help to raise environmental awareness, and I Am I,which encourages children to live purposefully and abundantly.

“These books are designed to inspire children, schools, and families to become better stewards of the environment by raising awareness about sustainability, conservation, and climate action in fun and engaging ways.”

Willis’ commitment to environmental conservation extends beyond her professional endeavours, as she makes deliberate choices in her daily experiences to protect the environment.

“I practise waste reduction by using reusable products, minimising single-use plastics, recycling and making sustainable choices in my daily life. Additionally, I educate others and integrate eco-conscious practices into every aspect of my lifestyle,” she said.

Her stewardship of the environment has also had a major influence on her children, Jahmani, Shakir and Charissa, ages 17, 15 and 10, respectively, who actively participate in the business.

“They play a significant role by managing the coordination of events, from planning to execution, ensuring everything runs smoothly. They contribute creative ideas for the business. Their involvement reminds me of the importance of leaving behind a better planet for their generation.”

Eco Smart was one of nearly 50 small and microenterprises featured at the recent JN Mall Pop-up shopping experience, held in the parking lot of JN Bank’s chief office in Half-Way Tree, St Andrew. The event aimed to showcase the talent and ingenuity of entrepreneurs. The Jamaica National Group has hosted the event for two consecutive years, providing a valuable platform for small businesses to connect with wider audiences. The organisation’s long-standing commitment to small enterprises includes providing loans and other financial solutions for over two decades.

Willis, who was participating in the JN Mall Pop-up shopping experience for the first time, found that the opportunity not only provided added exposure to her business, but also helped to stimulate awareness of protecting the environment.

The environmental advocate pointed out that operating a sustainability focused business is not without its hurdles.

“The challenges include educating customers about the benefits of eco-friendly products, competing with mass-produced items, and sourcing sustainable materials at affordable prices. However, the rewards of seeing positive customer feedback and making a difference outweigh the obstacles,” she said.

Despite these challenges, Willis is optimistic about the future of eco-friendly products, considering that the growing global emphasis on sustainability is gradually influencing local attitudes and practices.

“The demand is poised to grow as more consumers become environmentally aware and seek alternatives to conventional products. People are increasingly valuing sustainability, and I believe eco-friendly products will become the standard rather than the exception,” she explained.