Correlational Analysis on the Profile and Greening Practices of Small Manufacturing Enterprises in Nueva Ecija

This study, anchored on the Green Business Theory, is aimed at determining the greening practices of small manufacturing enterprises in Nueva Ecija, assessing the benefits and challenges in adopting such practices, and exploring the relationship of the respondents’ profiles with their greening practices. This research centers on the seven greening hotspots of the Department of Trade and Industry’s (DTI) Green Economic Development (GED) initiative, namely the management of natural resources, energy efficiency, wastewater, solid and toxic waste, transport, local supplies, and raw materials.  The study employed a quantitative research design utilizing a researcher-developed questionnaire composed of survey items and open-ended questions. Data collection was facilitated with the assistance of Negosyo Center Business Counselors. Using statistical tools such as frequency, percentage, mean, weighted mean, and Spearman’s rho, the responses of 78 small manufacturers were analyzed to determine patterns, relationships, and levels of significance. It was found that small manufacturers in Nueva Ecija generally engage in greening initiatives. Variations in perceptions and practices were evident across key demographic and organizational variables, including the sex of the owner, type of ownership, number of employees, and years in operation. Greening efforts were perceived to enhance regulatory compliance, stakeholder well-being, and corporate and product image. However, small manufacturers face constraints such as a lack of budget, low employee awareness, and weak implementation. These challenges, particularly low awareness and poor implementation, were closely linked to budget limitations, as effective training and sustained implementation require sufficient funding.