How To Make Your IT Systems More Environmentally Friendly

Julie Starr • April 27, 2021



As part of being a responsible business owner, you are probably already looking at ways to reduce your company’s impact on the environment. After all, it’s an issue that affects everyone in one way or another. We have to make an effort both in our personal and professional lives to make a difference. 

By assessing different areas of your business, you can find ways to improve your processes and reduce the energy consumption and carbon footprint of your company. This can come from reducing waste and introducing an environmentally friendly supply chain policy. 

One of the areas of your business to look at is your IT usage. Here are some ways in which you can make simple changes to your IT systems. 

Don’t Print Unnecessarily 

Gone are the days when you needed to print and file every document you were sent. Most documents don’t need to be printed at all. Make it policy in your organization to not print unless necessary. Not only will you save paper, but you’ll also save on printer consumables and energy too. You can get advice on leasing printers from your IT support company . They can also help you to set up your systems in the most efficient way possible. 

Switch To Cloud Computing 

Servers require a lot of power and cooling to keep them running efficiently. Rather than house your servers, move your computing to the cloud. By doing this you’ll drastically reduce your energy consumption, as well as avoid the need for buying and eventually disposing of server equipment . 

Set Your Systems To Turn Off

Many employees get into the habit of just leaving their screens on, or pcs in standby mode when they leave the office for the night. Multiply this by a large number of PCs, 5 days per week and you’re looking at a hefty energy bill across the year. You can set your IT network to power down PCs after a certain time in the evening when you know people won’t be in the office. 

Buy Energy Efficient Equipment

Modern IT equipment is far more energy-efficient than some of the older tech. If you’re running multiple pcs, printers, and monitors across the business, this can add up in terms of energy costs. 

Replace your old, electricity-guzzling tech with a newer model. 

Buy Refurbished Equipment 

Keep equipment out of landfill by buying refurbished where possible. Buying second-hand equipment can save you money too. 

The same goes for when you’re getting rid of equipment. If it’s in good working order and you’re just upgrading, then sell or gift your existing equipment so that it can continue to be useful. 

Use Renewable Energy

Businesses have a choice about who they use as their energy provider. There are now energy companies that use entirely renewable energy sources, meaning that you can power your business with less impact on the environment. 

Final Thoughts 

There are many advantages to reducing your carbon footprint. Not only will you be helping the planet, but you’ll also be going a long way towards reducing your business costs.  Using less energy leads to cheaper utility bills and equipment costs.

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.