How To Make Your Logistics More Sustainable

Julie Starr • August 16, 2021



Climate change has been affecting the planet at an increasingly alarming rate. While countless factors are driving that, part of it is how companies operate. The logistics behind these firms can be wasteful and generate a lot of carbon dioxide.

While you might think that that’s the cost of doing business, it doesn’t have to be. You could take advantage of sustainable logistics. If this is an unfamiliar term to you, then you’ll want to know what it is and how it can benefit you.

Coupled with that, you should find out how to make your logistics more sustainable. Though you could choose certain fuel sources, such as Tri Gas & Oil , there are multiple other things that you can do.

But first, it’s worth looking at what sustainable logistics actually is.

What Is Sustainable Logistics?

It’s been estimated that the world’s population will grow significantly in the next few decades. That’ll lead to a steady, if not sharp, increase in demand for goods and services. That will have just as much of an increase on the environment, thanks to the logistics of many companies.

Unless supply chains are made more sustainable, this rise will lead to a larger impact on the environment. With that, climate change will affect people much more than it is now. Companies need to adapt their supply chains to minimize that impact on the environment.

The process of achieving that goal is what’s known as sustainable logistics.

Why Is It Important?

You might be wondering why sustainable logistics is important. A lot of this could be related to e-commerce, which has boomed over the past few years. More people ordering online has led to more deliveries being made.

That’s resulted in more of an environmental impact than ever, with changes showing no signs of slowing down. Making your logistics more sustainable dampens – if not outright removes – the impact that your company will have.

There are several other reasons why many companies, especially e-commerce ones, are trying to make their logistics more sustainable . The largest of these are:

  • Customers focus more on a product’s or service’s sustainability before buying;
  • More governmental mandates are coming in focusing on the issue;
  • More employees are demanding that their employers are environmentally friendly.

With those in mind, it might be mandatory to reduce the environmental impact your company has. If it isn’t, then it might be in the years to come.

Tips For Making Your Logistics More Sustainable

Make Use Of Your Data

There’s a lot involved in logistics and the supply chain, meaning there’s a lot to manage. There’s also a lot of information being taken in, even if you’re not doing so intentionally. Drivers can tell you, for example, what times people are unlikely to be home for deliveries.

Factors like these, which require multiple trips for one delivery, affect your company’s carbon footprint. Using the data that comes in means that you can optimize your operations. That means putting in reporting and tracking tools, although that’s something many firms should do anyway.

With these, you can determine the best time to arrange deliveries, optimize routes, and much more. These will make your logistics network more sustainable. You can also optimize for profitability at the same time, should this match up with your sustainability goals.

Get Closer To Your Customers

If you’re based close to your customers, then you won’t need to travel too far to deliver to them. While that isn’t always an option, you could consider pop-up warehouses. These specifically target last-mile deliveries, which can often be the least environmentally friendly aspect of a delivery.

Pop-up warehouses minimize this, as you can make multiple local deliveries from the same warehouse. Not only does this make deliveries more sustainable, but customers don’t have to wait too long for a delivery. You can also be more flexible with your delivery schedule.

That makes it a win-win for everybody involved.

Optimize Your Sites

If your business has multiple sites, then it could have a large environmental impact. If you need to deliver between them regularly, then that will make the issue worse. Optimizing your workplaces and any deliveries between them should be a priority.

There are multiple areas that you can focus on, depending on your industry. Analyzing routes and delivery times should be your first step, as you can optimize for fuel consumption and other factors.

You should also look at the equipment you use. Could this be upgraded to make it more fuel-efficient? Will making changes streamline the production and delivery process? Are there any areas where you can cut down on carbon emissions?

Answering these questions and implementing potential solutions should be your first step in making your logistics more sustainable. You should see this as an ongoing process, as you can find more areas to improve the more you look.

Add IoT Devices For Minor Improvements

The Internet of Things (IoT) has made doing business much easier across multiple industries. That’s only when properly utilized, however. Depending on what industry you’re in, these can vary. There are several areas that the IoT can help you make your logistics more sustainable.

Many of these revolve around reducing fuel consumption. If a vehicle averages 80km per hour, for example, it could save on 10% of fuel. Making sure your tire pressure is optimal can also have an impact on your fuel consumption.

How to optimize these can vary depending on exact circumstances. Utilizing the IoT will help you track and analyze different areas, letting you optimize for sustainability. You should also save on money with these, especially when it comes to fuel costs.

Wrapping Up

There are multiple reasons why you should make your logistics more sustainable. These can revolve around increased sales and revenue, as potential customers will be more attracted to your company. The same can be said for potential employees, giving you greater access to a wider talent pool.

That’s without mentioning the environmental benefits that it will offer. While you might have to put an upfront investment to accomplish this, it’ll be worth it in the long term. Once you know how to make your logistics more sustainable.

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.