Can Your Team Go Green? Killer Strategies For Hitting Sustainability Goals In Your Business

Julie Starr • January 25, 2022



With environmental awareness on the rise, an increasing number of firms are adjusting their practices in order to become more ecologically friendly and reduce their overall carbon footprint. In addition to being beneficial to the environment, taking an environmentally conscious strategy can assist in attracting new customers who are also interested in being environmentally conscientious. Consumers are no longer happy for businesses to be using green-washing techniques; they want to see actual concrete action being taken to reduce the impact that the business has on the environment. 

It takes time and effort to establish sustainable behaviors, and it does not happen immediately or by chance. It requires a thorough plan of action as well as a detailed methodology for how the company expects to attain its objectives. Unlike smaller organizations, which may find it easier to adapt their policies to the new reality, larger corporations will likely require more time and resources to do so. However, the increased public acceptance that comes with environmentally friendly activities makes the work worthwhile.

Here, we explore how organizations may work toward and achieve the objective of establishing sustainable, “green” practices throughout the organization from the very top to the very bottom.

Involve all of the stakeholders in the business and harness the collective wisdom

In their stakeholders, companies have a wealth of collective intelligence to draw upon. Engage those in your immediate vicinity, including clients, coworkers, and suppliers, and solicit their suggestions for ways to become greener and more environmentally conscious.

If you feel like you can’t do much in your own business, look at how you can help others

As a business, you may not always be able to develop an environmentally friendly product or practice but you may contribute to the efforts of groups who are doing just that. Encourage your teams to get engaged with non-profit organizations that are working to promote environmentally responsible behavior. This is a terrific way to begin a collaborative endeavor with your team, fostering camaraderie and fostering an authentic approach to making the world a better place in which to live.

Small steps lead to a big impact

Implementing tiny, but significant improvements can result in more environmentally friendly behaviors. Install water filters in place of bottled water for events, and ask staff to bring in their own reusable utensils and straws to use in the corporate cafeteria to reduce the use of plastic in the workplace. Create standard operating procedures to reduce the amount of paper used, as well as the amount of printing and recycling. Employees must be educated on the benefits of these changes in order to support them.

Audit your energy uses

To begin, look for ways to minimize expenditures while simultaneously increasing your sustainability. An energy audit is a good starting step since it appeals to both your environmentally concerned employees and your budget-conscious employees. The results of an energy audit often include recommendations for lighting efficiency improvements that result in cost savings over the long run. Inform your clientele about your sustainability efforts as well—it is excellent public relations!

Encourage stewardship

Business executives and CEOs should view themselves as stewards of the company rather than as owners of the company. When a leader perceives themselves as a steward, they will make decisions with the future in mind, rather than the present. The long-term decisions of a corporation will be prioritized over short-term decisions if the entire organization is focused on stewardship of the environment.

Turn off the lights!

This is pretty standard and obvious stuff, yet it is important to keep in mind. According to the research, when a business only turns the lights on when they are required to do so, the power savings not only collectively cut demand for energy and dramatically lower their carbon footprint, but they also enhance their bottom line as a result. Use artificial intelligence (AI) or human intelligence to turn off lights and screens when they are not needed.

Implement sustainable travel practices

The damage that travel can do to the environment can not be underestimated.  Every company can make changes to its policies to encourage environmentally-friendly travel practices such as taking nonstop flights, paying carbon tax to fund environmental restoration projects, using reusable packing supplies instead of single-use disposables, and most importantly, increasing the use of video conferencing.

Go digital

Businesses should make the transition to digital operations. Businesses will benefit from the adoption of digital ordering, invoicing, inventory management, and supply chain platforms since it will reduce the amount of paper that is exchanged and thus lower operational costs. A few of the inventive choices for a business to go green include the use of solar electricity, the installation of smart equipment that monitors temperature, light, moisture, and movement, and the prohibition of single-use plastics in the workplace.

Ask for ideas

Inviting all workers and vendors to contribute their thoughts on any missing opportunities for the company to become more environmentally conscious. Consider having a diverse employee team or a consultant review the crowdsourced ideas and determine whether or not they are feasible. Make a selection of the most potential and influential candidates. Once you have put them into action, make sure to follow up with your stakeholders to let them know how things are doing. 

Outsource

Outsourcing some of your processes, particularly business IT support services, to an eco-friendly partner can have a positive impact. The staffing is there when you need it rather than having people come in, adding to the pressure on the roads and using additional resources while not being needed. An outsourcing partner will generally work with multiple clients so will have the technologies and equipment that they need already, so you do not have to buy more and potentially create even more waste.

Integrate it into your workplace culture

It is not sufficient to just establish a “green program.” Organizations must commit to it as a corporate priority and modify policies, procedures, technologies, and other aspects of their operations to achieve this. After that, gather ideas from a variety of stakeholders (customers, employees, and suppliers) in order to gain ownership. When people commit to regular green behaviors and share their commitment with their coworkers, change occurs. This involves serving as a green role model for their employees.

Have a B-Corp mindset

When an organization is certified as having a good impact on its employees, community, customers, and the environment,  it is referred to as a “B corporation” Even if your company does not wish to pursue B corporation accreditation, simply examining the application might help you determine where your organization stands in relation to others. Additionally, free resources can assist you in identifying areas for improvement. 

Recycle, recycle, recycle

Recycling is essential for long-term sustainability. Our natural resources will run out eventually if we continue to consume at our current rates, and it is only through recycling and reuse that we will be able to salvage what is left.

By adopting an effective recycling program, you can reduce your trash costs as well as the amount of waste you send to landfills. A composting system can help you reduce food waste to a bare minimum. To collect wasted paper, place a recycling box next to each desk in your office. Products and materials that can be reused should be sought after. Look out for environmentally acceptable methods of disposing of your old electronic equipment. Donate unused equipment to help decrease office waste and maybe qualify for a tax benefit.

Final thoughts

Make a list of goals and focus on long-term ambitions. Decide which goals will be most helpful in achieving your vision, which will have the greatest influence on the environment, and which will make the most sense for your company. Take into account the costs and rewards.

Progress in sustainability should be measured on a regular basis to determine whether or not tactics are effective and what needs to be changed. Because sustainability is a lifelong commitment to the environment and the next generation, it is important to develop ways to keep your objectives current.

The term “sustainability” refers to a lot more than just preserving and developing operations and earnings in today’s business world. Green initiatives are being implemented on a worldwide scale now, and businesses must be accountable enough in their operations to serve the greater good. That a company’s sustainability initiatives not only benefit the environment and the next generation but also provide a considerable return on investment in the form of improved brand recognition and cost savings, is a positive thing.

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.