5 Ways How Your Commercial Business Can Help The Planet

Julie Starr • October 15, 2021



Commercial businesses can make their property more eco-friendly by installing various types of green technologies. Whether it is renewable energy, metal roofing, lighting, rainwater collection systems, or electronic technology, green technologies are beneficial to the environment and helpful to potential customers.

Here Are 5 Ways How Commercial Businesses Can Help The Planet:

Metal Roofing

Metal roofing is an efficient way to reduce the carbon footprint of commercial businesses. Metal roofs are made up of recycled aluminum, steel, or copper materials that would otherwise be landfilled.  U sing metal roofing for commercial buildings can reduce greenhouse emissions by as much as fourteen metric tons per 100 square meters of roofing. The reduction in emissions reduces the demand for fossil fuels and contributes to cleaner air and water. This has several benefits for business owners who want to make their properties more environmentally friendly:

  • These types of roofs also have excellent insulation, so buildings require less energy for heating.
  • The reflective metal panels collect less heat for the establishment, cooling it naturally during hot days.
  • Roofs are easier to maintain without requiring regular re-painting.

Renewable Energy

Another way commercial businesses can make their property more eco-friendly is by using renewable energy sources such as solar or wind power.  In addition, with today’s easy access to information, anyone can research new green technology which has been made available to consumers.

For example, many people may not know that photovoltaic (PV) panels are available that allow homes and businesses to produce their own electricity, thus creating minimal dependency on traditional utility companies while also having lower electric bills. 

These types of technologies will only become more popular in the near future because they help build a more sustainable world, which is beneficial to everyone.

Lighting

Businesses can protect the environment by using energy-efficient lighting. LED light bulbs are becoming popular because they use less electricity than traditional light bulbs and last much longer.  They also heat up slowly, so they don’t burn out as fast . Rather than changing a bulb every year or two, an LED bulb could last between 10 – 20 years before it needs replacing. This reduces the number of materials needed for production, shipping, and disposal while saving the company money in long-term costs.  In addition, green technology helps businesses create eco-friendly buildings that are beneficial to both employees and customers alike.

Electronic Technology

There are many electronic devices that are made without toxic components, which are harmful to our health and the environment.  The best way to lessen your carbon footprint is by recycling cell phones, computers, TVs, and other electronic devices instead of throwing them away when you upgrade. Many people don’t know that it’s possible to sell old electronics for cash or trade-in.

Rainwater Collection

If businesses want to make their property more eco-friendly, they could invest in a rainwater collection system. These types of systems can collect up to 100 gallons of water per inch of rainfall; this means one inch of rain could fill up 1000 gallons of storage space!

If businesses rely on normal tap water for their needs, these stored waters could be used for landscaping purposes like irrigation or exterior cleaning windows (which would require less soap). Not only would this save money on tap water bills, but it would also decrease plastic water bottle usage, which is harmful to the environment. 

In Conclusion

By taking the initiative and building green , businesses are making their property more eco-friendly which is beneficial for their business as well as the future of the planet!

A Greener Supply Chain with Micro Fulfillment

By Julie Starr • May 23, 2025
A sustainable supply chain is made possible with some major shifts and minor changes that you may not consider at first. One of these is micro fulfillment, where strategically placed warehouses provide streamlined services to a smaller area. So, what are some of the benefits of changing your logistics? From consolidated deliveries to minimal eco-impact, here are a few. Closer Customer Proximity There are a few ways that micro fulfillment centers are revolutionizing the courier industry. Reduced emissions, local sourcing, and support for urban stability are just three of the many examples. Compact logistics are quickly becoming a solution for businesses that want to make a difference, and through small warehouse space for rent , as and when needed, environmental footprints are diminishing as companies deliver services and goods to a smaller customer area. Consolidated Delivery Options Efficiency is everything in business, but it is even more critical when a company is looking to reduce the environmental impact of its operations. Through a micro-fulfillment system, a business is able to reduce the overall number of trips that a courier has to make. With consolidated deliveries concentrated in a smaller geographic area, there are many more options available that contribute to a lower impact, including efficient use of fuel for lower emissions. A Greener Supply Chain with Route Efficiency A company can make many changes when becoming the green link in the supply chain for a healthier logistical operation. However, an average home delivery round for a standard courier service is 50 miles, with 0.42 miles between each drop-off, producing 181g of carbon each. Focusing on a smaller area through micro fulfillment reduce the associated issues with couriers: Being closer to delivery routes reduces the need for extra shipping options. Electric delivery vehicles can be used as there is no need to recharge them. Knowledge of the area helps with routes as drivers can avoid congested areas. Lower Environmental Impact Of course, all efforts to go green and become more sustainable through logistics are to reduce the environmental impact that a business has on the area. Micro fulfillment contributes to this in a way that a wider operation cannot. Shorter routes and enhanced inventory management actively reduce waste. There is also much less energy used, as micro fulfillment centers are designed to be energy-efficient, and EVs and less transport contribute to emission reduction. Enhanced Socioeconomic Benefits There is also a social and economic impact of a business. An enhanced and more sustainable business using local micro fulfillment centers instantly creates more jobs, helping to prop up the local economy. Of course, the efficiency of this type of logistical operation also results in happier customers, increasing the chance of repeat business. From a business perspective, you demonstrate a commitment to ongoing sustainability , appealing to eco-conscious customers. Summary Being closer to customers for delivery helps create a greener supply chain when used with micro fulfillment centers. Local couriers and employees also know the area and can avoid congested areas for streamlined operations. However, there are also social and economic benefits such as job creation, improved customer experiences, and enhanced brand reputation.

Sustainability in Ecommerce: 3 Ways to Make Progress Where It Matters

By Julie Starr • May 21, 2025
Sustainability is no longer a nice-to-have—it's essential. That’s true across every industry, and ecommerce is no exception. But let’s be honest: building a more sustainable ecommerce business isn’t always straightforward. From packaging to supply chains to last-mile delivery, the challenges are real—and often feel like they’re outside your control. But here’s the good news: sustainable ecommerce is absolutely possible. And it doesn’t have to be all or nothing. Small, strategic shifts can make a meaningful difference—not just for the planet, but for your customers and your brand’s longevity. Here are three actionable ways you can move the needle toward a more environmentally responsible ecommerce business. Choose Sustainable Packaging That Works for People and Planet Packaging is often one of the most visible and wasteful—aspects of ecommerce. From oversized boxes to plastic fillers, the impact adds up fast. But it doesn’t have to. Thoughtful, sustainable packaging design can dramatically reduce your environmental footprint. Start by right-sizing your shipments to reduce excess material and emissions. Opt for recycled, recyclable, or compostable materials that align with circular economy principles. Better yet, one option is to design custom boxes with sustainable materials, for example. These custom packaging solutions eliminate unnecessary layers while enhancing your brand’s presentation. These aren’t just more sustainable choices, they’re smarter ones. Today’s customers care about where materials come from, and where they end up. Your packaging can reflect your commitment to both. Partner with Purpose: Choose Sustainable Suppliers Your supply chain is an extension of your brand and one of the most powerful levers you have to reduce your environmental impact. You could end up using more than a few suppliers when you’re running an ecommerce company . It’s always worth making sure these are as sustainable as possible . While you may not control every aspect of your suppliers’ operations, you do control who you choose to work with. Prioritize suppliers who share your commitment to sustainability. Look for transparency in sourcing, third-party certifications, and a clear track record of environmental and ethical practices. Ask the right questions: Are their materials responsibly sourced? Do they minimize waste and emissions? How do they treat their workforce? Choosing partners who align with your values not only improves the sustainability of your products—it strengthens your brand’s integrity and resilience. When your supply chain reflects your mission, it creates trust and long-term value across your business. Lead with Impact: Promote Environmental Awareness Sustainability doesn’t stop at your supply chain. As an ecommerce business, you have a unique platform to elevate environmental causes and inspire meaningful change within and beyond your operations. Sometimes, it’s just a matter of highlighting and supporting various sustainable initiatives and causes around the world. One powerful way to do this is by supporting organizations and initiatives that align with your values. Whether it’s donating a portion of your profits, partnering with mission-driven nonprofits, or amplifying important causes across your website and social channels, your advocacy matters. By shining a light on solutions and inviting your customers to participate, you strengthen your brand’s purpose and build a community rooted in shared responsibility. This isn’t just good for the planet; it’s good for business. Sustainable ecommerce is entirely possible. With the right mindset and a few strategic shifts, your business can lead with integrity, reduce its footprint, and become part of a much-needed transformation in the digital economy.