How Can You Improve Your Office Sustainability and Productivity?

Julie Starr • September 25, 2021



A modern-day workplace is a busy place. With all the extra work and responsibilities that you must balance, it can be challenging to maintain a sustainable and productive
office. 

It may not be a pressing issue because the business doesn’t produce any pollutants or create any waste. But many people in today’s world face this dilemma daily. So how do you find time for your sustainability efforts while still getting everything else done?

Power Savings

It refers to reducing your energy usage in the office. Not only will this save you money, but it’s also better for the environment. Some ways to achieve this goal is by turning off lights and equipment when they are not needed (such as at night or during lunch). Also, ensure that all computers go into sleep mode after a set amount of time without activity, and even try powering down devices like printers if you are not using them.

Reducing Pollutants

This act reduces emissions from products such as paper towels, printer ink cartridges, and batteries. You can start with replacing items like duster sprayers with more eco-friendly options; microfiber cloths work just as well. Other easy steps include using recycled paper trays instead of buying new ones and replacing disposable batteries with alkaline varieties.

Pollutants can be harmful to the environment, but they can also cause health problems for employees. You can use air purification devices from Design Mechanical, Inc to keep your environment clean and healthy for everyone. 

Cleanliness and Hygiene

It would help if you had a clean, healthy environment that doesn’t negatively affect the people working there and those around them. Some easy steps you can take include increasing your indoor air quality by using more eco-friendly cleaning supplies, taking out the trash regularly instead of overfilling it, and even reusing items like coffee mugs.

Good hygiene in the work area also helps achieve this goal. For example, using antibacterial spray to kill germs and microorganisms in the office can reduce illnesses like flu or colds that cause employees to miss work.

Cleanliness and hygiene are things that most people overlook in the office, but having a clean space can improve employee morale and productivity.

Use Eco-friendly Products

You need to use products that are more environmentally friendly . For example, buying recycled paper is a great way to reduce trees cut down to produce new office material. Other options include replacing traditional light bulbs with CFL ones and even switching out printers for models that use less ink or toner, so you don’t have to replace them as often.

Incorporate Natural Products and Supplies

Using more “green” alternatives that don’t rely on chemicals or unnatural ingredients to get the job done will positively impact your sustainability goals. It includes items like a bamboo pencil holder for your desk (instead of plastic), a plant-based soap dispenser instead of one with harsh chemicals inside it, and even something as simple as an all-natural hand sanitizer.

Conclusion

And lastly, there is one crucial thing that many business owners don’t think about when discussing sustainability: their employees. If you want an office environment where everyone feels comfortable with what they’re doing for an environmental cause, then make sure workers are involved in the process. It will make them feel more like they are contributing instead of just being told what to do, and they will put more effort into the activity.

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.
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.