The term ?ecopreneur? has been trademarked by Ecopreneur, LLC, and is a blend of the words ecological and entrepreneur. According to Wise Geek, ?an Ecoprenuer? is an entrepreneur who is focused on ecologically-friendly issues and causes, attempting to do business in a way which benefits the environment.? This term encompasses a whole host of individuals, but perhaps no one is a better example than the independent business owner. The network marketing industry (encompassing multi-level marketing and direct selling) has plenty of opportunities available for those wanting ?go green? while making the green. The personal care industry is a popular one, dominated by two giants: Shaklee Corporation and Melaleuca Inc. Founded in 1956 by Dr. Forrest C. Shaklee, Shaklee Corporation is an network marketing company with over 750,000 members. Shaklee both produces and sells environmentally-friendly nutritional supplements, skin care products, and cleaning supplies. As early as the 1960's Shaklee produced one of the first-ever biodegradable household cleaners, and was the first company in the world to obtain Climate Neutral certification and totally offset their CO2 emissions. Melaleuca is a $780 million dollar nutritional, cosmetics, and personal care company. They were founded in 1984 and have enjoyed twenty-three years of consecutive growth since then. This eco-friendly company promotes a healthy lifestyle through its products?many that still boast benefits from the melaleuca plant extract and numerous that are certified organic. If you are looking for a green MLM business opportunity outside the personal care industry you might consider focusing your energy on, well, energy. Energy is a trillion dollar industry, and some notable companies are capitalizing on a resource that everyone needs: Citizenre has launched its REnU program that promotes renewable energy by offering solar power to consumers via rentable solar panels. The Citizen Corporation owns and operates the equipment, and will install and maintain it at no charge. A customer simply pays a flat rental fee per month, locked in at a long-term rate. Associates receive bonuses for customers that sign long-term contracts and residual income from the monthly rent payments. In deregulated states like Texas, New York and Illinois, customers have a choice in their energy provider. Ambit Energy's goal is to be ?the finest and most respected residential energy provider in the United States.? The company's Ambit Certified Green plans are certified by the Green-e Program to reduce the environmental impact of the energy used by Ambit Energy customers. In addition to providing low-cost energy, Ambit has a substantial rewards program. Independent consultants can create a significant income by increasing Ambit's customer base. Being an ecopreneur is rewarding in many ways. Top Ambit leader Brian McClure says, ?I have not only achieved financial independence as an Ambit consultant, but the tremendous satisfaction of knowing I work for a company that offers consumers a lower energy bill and contributes to the environment in a positive way.? Whatever your interest, there are some great opportunities out there for the eco-friendly entrepreneur. From skin care to solar power, there are multiple network marketing companies that allow you to make a difference while making a living.