The need to clean up the environment creates a ready and steady supply of raw materials for some cottage industries. Small-scale industries that deal in scrap metal are some of the advantaged businesses. They collect or buy scrap metal as waste products from larger organizations, then sell the scrap to other industries that use waste metals as raw materials for their products.
The startup cost of small-scale businesses can overwhelm budding entrepreneurs. Environmental laws can prove too expensive to adhere to for small-scale businesses, which often lack the proper waste disposal channels due to financial constraints. Blacksmiths and welders often lack the proper safety gear such as ear protection and protective goggles. Blacksmithing is a noisy trade, therefore workers are required to have ear protection as would any factory worker. The light from welding torches poses a vision risk, so welders are required to wear safety goggles tinted to shield their eyes. Failure to meet these requirements may lead to these businesses being denied operating permits.
Changes in weather may hinder the delivery of services and goods in some small-scale businesses, especially in the agricultural sector. A delay in rainy seasons can have adverse effects on the local vegetable vendor's income. Excessive rain, conversely, retards or reduces yields of vegetables such as tomatoes, creating a shortage of the commodity. The purchasing price goes up and consequently the selling price does too. Customers may seek cheaper alternatives. Lack of sustained sunshine can also disrupt the growing season, causing a shortage of goods in the market and inhibiting customers' tendency to buy at the resulting higher price.
More and more people are becoming environmentally conscious with each passing day. Every detail about the products they use is scrutinized for its eco-impact. Product packaging is one such aspect. Unlike large-scale businesses, small-scale businesses may lack the resources to offer their products in biodegradable packages such as recycled paper. Purchases from small-scale businesses such as local shops are often packed into plastic bags as they are affordable and easy to come by. Green-minded customers may therefore opt to shop in a chain supermarket, which bags groceries in recycled paper.