How to Make Sustainable Investments on the Stock Market

Julie Starr • March 3, 2022



Investing your money is a great way to secure your future and build your wealth, as an individual , or an organization. While considering companies with a good market cap , you should also consider green investing. If you are trying to lead a more sustainable life, it is important to consider where you are making your investments. By investing in green stocks, you can put your money to good use and support companies that have a favorable impact on the environment by committing to certain acts, such as pollution reduction, conservation of natural resources, and other environmentally friendly practices. 

Here is some more information to help you get started with green investments. 

How to find sustainable investments

Unfortunately, there is no one definition of the term “green” or “sustainable”, but there are many different factors that can qualify an investment as environmentally friendly and are often open to interpretation. 

Look for certifications

Firstly, many companies with green practices tend to get the relevant certifications that provide proof. This is a great factor to look out for. There are also investments that are grouped together under the umbrella of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) and socially responsible investing (SRI) which set out criteria that businesses need to meet. This can be helpful to help you get started. 

Research company practices and investments

Alternatively, if you have the time, you can research a variety of companies to see what kind of initiatives they are involved in. Their business may not sell a sustainable solution, but many companies seek to improve the environment by engaging in eco-friendly research, energy-saving technology, developing sustainable alternatives to materials such as plastics, reducing pollution, and much more. 

There are also a variety of businesses and start-ups that are created with the intention of developing alternative solutions themselves, such as materials and energies. These companies with strong environmental commitments are easy to spot and are a great investment to make.

Bonds 

There is a range of green bonds available on the market, which represent loans to help finance green projects that are created to benefit the environment, typically run by companies or the government. These are typically made attractive with added tax incentives for the investors. 

Mutual funds

Mutual funds, such as the TIAA-CREF Social Choice Equity Fund (TICRX) are a great way to spread your investment across a range of different projects that are designed to help and benefit the environment. This increases your exposure and ensures your investments are put to good use. Some of these projects include innovative renewable energy and other technologies, which is a great way to increase your potential earning profit. 

Just with any investment on the market, you are taking a risk when you invest your money in a green business. With the growth of the eco-friendly market and innovative technology, businesses have been known to return a good profit to investors. 

Green investments are growing to new heights, as they become more important with the rise in natural disasters, government mandates and the awareness of the current climate crisis. Whether you invest as an individual, or as a business, you can make a difference by choosing to support green initiatives. 

 

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.