News Discussion #1: New Ebay site has social, environmental aim

http://news.yahoo.com/s/ap/20080903/ap_on_hi_te/ebay_green_site

Ebay has developed a new Web site called WorldofGood.com, which will sell items that were produced with social and environmental goals.  With the “Go Green” theme that has started to take over the United States, this seems like a smart venture.  I think the Web site is a good idea because it appeals to a growing market.  According to the article, the U.S. market for goods that emphasize social and environmental awareness was $209 billion in 2005 and is projected to grow to $420 billion in 2010.  Ebay is already a very popular Web site, and I think many people will really be excited about their new site’s values. The new Web site also will be able to use the popularity of Ebay to gain publicity, which could help them find success, especially with young people.  The article said that the site will sell things that have some positive effect on people and the planet at a fixed price to help shoppers align their “social values with their shopping decisions.”  With the rise of environmental and human rights awareness, I think that Ebay has chosen the right time to launch this new site, which may be used by many college students.