Becoming the ‘Green Link’ in the Supply Chain

Julie Starr • May 28, 2021



When it comes to running a business, every small business owner and manager knows that it takes an awful lot of work and collaborating with other businesses in order to make things work effectively. 

The supply chain is an essential part of running a business, but we are all aware of the environmental impact working alongside so many other businesses can have.
The good news is that no matter how small or large your business, every company can do what they can to create a better world to live in. 

So whether you’re in the game of bookkeeping or you make goods to sell to people’s homes, there’s always the potential to make things a little greener throughout your supply chain. Here are some ideas as to where you can start.

Use ‘Green’ Suppliers 

You may have considered changing suppliers previously and noticed a higher price in what they do compared to other companies. The reason they tend to charge more is due to the fact that greener suppliers have a huge effect on the carbon implications of bringing new products onto the market. 

Collaborate with green businesses, and that will have a direct impact on your own carbon footprint, as well as giving you the opportunity to learn best practices from them about how you can improve in the future. 

Taking the time to assess these alternative supplies should uncover several potential benefits of changing. One of the biggest being appealing to a range of customers, coming second to lowering your own carbon footprint.

Use Less Packing and Consolidate Shipments  

We have access to a range of materials that are designed to help companies to make their packages smaller and lighter. Not only does this reduce the overall cost of shipping but it also allows shipping containers to carry more products in a load. Using recycled or recyclable materials helps to eliminate excess packing materials that would otherwise go into landfills. 

Another thing you could do is to encourage your customers to consolidate all of their orders. Larger companies are able to offer their customers to pay less for shipping and have them all sent at once in less packaging. At the end of the day, your customers are going to enjoy the prospect of being able to save money easily. It also helps you as a business to reduce your carbon emissions. 

Try to Stay Local 

Shipping goods and services for long distances is possible and is a sure way of being able to reach a wider target audience, however, shipping long distances can have disastrous implications on the environment. If you also retrieve goods from far distances then your carbon footprint will increase tenfold. 

Try sourcing some of your products that are closer by or are closer by to major markets and watch your energy use reduce significantly. 

Using local couriers will also help you to be able to plan smarter routes that can help to further reduce carbon emissions. 

Reuse where you can 

For owners of small business premises, it may be tempting to buy everything brand new when you need to refit. However, you don’t have to spend more money than necessary making changes. Some gently used, pre-loved fittings, fixtures, and furniture can be all you need. Take a browse around local flea markets and online for some truly unique pieces that will make all the difference. 

Or if it’s just a small facelift that you’re after, head to your local hardware store to pick up some sandpaper and paint materials to upcycle your existing furniture. Not only will you then have unique-looking stuff, doing this will help you to get a unique aesthetic with a limited impact on the environment. It will help your small business, but will also have a domino effect on the supply chain on the whole. 

Start Now 

Buyers are placing an increasing amount of importance on eliminating waste and excess pollution from small businesses. Making progress and showing customers how you are doing that will enforce the positive impression of your brand to customers and employees. 

Focus on the things you can control within your own business and then prepare to advise other businesses throughout the supply chain and beyond each  and every company has the potential to begin its journey towards becoming more environmentally sustainable . It is important to start sooner rather than later, knowing that even the smallest of changes can make the world of difference to their carbon footprint.

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.