Innovation

This business is used to sell their products in either plastic and glass containers. The business noticed that with their sales they were also contributing to global warming for the excess use of glass and plastic. So they decided to start an innovation that will encourage people to re-use the containers. So in their tags they advertised that every 4 clean empty containers the clients brought back to the store, they will get a reward from the store, usually another product. This business thought that if they encouraged people to bring back the containers.

Once the business has the containers they put them through a meticulous process of cleaning that will leave the containers ready to use again. They started doing this at five years ago, the director, Victor came with the idea in one of the main stores, when he saw that it was a hit he decided to expand it to the other two stores where it was also a hit.

Inspiration

The inspiration for this innovation was to reduce the glass circulation and production. In the interview the interviewer told us a story of how his father made them wash and re-use the container of glass they used “everyday he would tell us to wash the glass containers so we could use them the next day” he tells us. He also told us that that's where the inspiration came from. So he got inspired by his father, and actions they did on a day a day basis and involved it into the family business. 

“Clients come back more often and like the dynamic” he mentions. This innovation is helping the society as well as the environment because there's less production of glass and reduces the cost of buying the glass to the business.

Overall impact

La Casita de la Miel has made a significant impact by promoting sustainable beekeeping practices, supporting local biodiversity, and educating the community about the importance of bees in the ecosystem.

 By prioritizing ethical honey production, they help maintain healthy bee populations, which are essential for pollination and global food security. Their dedication to sustainability aligns with the United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), particularly in areas of responsible consumption, environmental conservation, and economic growth ( Goals 12, 8, 15, 17, and 13-indirectly).

 Beyond their ecological contributions, the business fosters local economic stability by providing jobs and preserving traditional beekeeping knowledge. Through their work, La Casita de la Miel shows how small businesses can drive positive change while maintaining profitability and sustainability.

Business benefit

This innovation has significantly helped the business by giving it the opportunity to grow by this innovation. They are responsible with their production and their consumption, just like the SDgs number 12. 

With reusing the containers the business have an advantage and can cut their budget for the purchase of the containers, which in the long run it's going to be an advantage for them, as well as that way they bring new customers and old clients will be still encourage to keep buying and bringing the containers back for their “reward”. It will be beneficial economically and environmentally for the company.

Social and environmental benefit

This family business isn’t just about making honey, it’s about making a difference. For generations, they’ve cared for their bees like family, passing down traditions and creating jobs for the local community.

 They believe that protecting bees means protecting the planet, so they use sustainable beekeeping practices to keep these tiny pollinators safe. By educating others about the importance of bees, they’re inspiring people to take better care of the environment. 

Every jar of honey they produce carries a bigger purpose, supporting local families, preserving nature, and ensuring that future generations can enjoy a thriving, balanced world. It’s proof that even a small, family-run business can have a powerful impact.

Interview

Victor Manuel Abarca Pineda, Director