GreenViet was a startup 12 years ago. It is a consulting company regarding sustainability concerns in Vietnam, creating certain standards ensuring sustainability in construction and housing. On top of being a startup, the sustainability market was nonexistent at the time. Our presenter, co-founder Mr. Quang, explains that his company’s success stems from simple networking and branding. He explains that a company is nothing if there are no connections and relationships built. His first client was one whom he had worked closely with in the past. He emphasizes that a sense of personal trust is needed in business interactions in order for one to buy your product. Additionally, the company has become successful in ways incidentally through the nature of the international business environment. Vietnam competes with China when it comes to labor-based manufacturing production. Mr. Quang stated that the one child policy in China is reducing the percentage of population entering labor-based jobs, due to a reduced motivation to work caused by children inheriting more of their parents’ money. This consequently caused Chinese factories to close and suffer, inversely allowing Vietnam’s manufacturing to benefit. Also, there is a demand for their services that are not being met through other companies. Mr. Quang explains that clients are willing to spend the extra money because of the importance placed on their services of sustainability, which has allowed them to be especially successful. 

Additionally, other natures of Vietnam allows for GreenViet to be successful. Vietnam is rapidly developing with a GDP that increases exponentially. This allows for foreign investment to be an attractive option. Vietnam also has a young population, which allows for a labor-intensive economy. Vietnamese companies are increasingly looking more attractive to investors and clients.

I believe something that struck me most was the stress he placed on social aspects. GreenViet finds it very important to treat their employees well, in order to produce good work. This is a concept often overlooked, especially in American companies, so I found it very refreshing to see in practice. The company recognizes the three pillars of social, economic, and environmental effects. Mr. Quang explains the necessity for a balance of people, planet, and profit. As a sustainability consulting company, it is interesting to hear him talk about the treatment of employees.