How To Reduce The Carbon Footprint Of Your School
Julie Starr • June 6, 2022
Education is one of the best defenses against climate change. The more the world knows and understands climate change and how human action, or inaction, can affect the sustainability of the world the better-placed populations will be to help take real measures to improve sustainability and limit the negative effects of climate change. And what better place to start than in schools?
Ensuring eco-friendly measures are taken in schools allows students, from a young age, to not only understand why they are important but it sets an example that they can follow. After all, ‘do as I do’ is a much more effective learning tool than ‘do as I say’. These young pupils should then go on to adopt these practices in all aspects of their life and in turn, a reduced carbon footprint becomes a way of life.
So here are some steps you can take to improve lead by example and improve the carbon footprint of schools.
The school canteen
The school canteen is an excellent place to start as there are so many eco-friendly measures that can be implemented. Measures that will improve the sustainability of the school but that can also be taken home and used in pupils’ and teachers’ day-to-day life.
Meat-free days
Meat carries with it a huge carbon footprint. Reducing the amount of meat eaten can reduce the output of greenhouse gasses considerably. So, consider implementing one day a week where meat is replaced by a plant-based alternative. Also, ensure that vegetarian offerings are included daily on the school menu.
Food waste
Food wastage is another huge contributor to a school’s carbon footprint. Rotting food waste can end up in landfill sites emitting harmful greenhouse gasses. Ensure that every effort is made to avoid food waste.
Use local food
By sourcing your school food locally you will be cutting the associated emissions and help support your local economy.
The school building
Here are some ways you can make your school building more eco-friendly and energy-efficient.
- Install motion sensor lighting so that lights are only in use when needed.
- Insulate the building.
- Use heating and air conditioning units only when absolutely needed. Consider opening windows before switching on the AC.
- Consider alternative energy sources, such as solar power.
- Turn off tech that is not in use. A computer can consume up to 65% of the required energy when it is left on. The energy that is being wasted and not used. Be sure to turn off any gadgets, computers, printers, and tablets if they are not being used.
- Invest in quality items. When it comes to items such as cafeteria tables, desks, and chairs be sure to invest in items that will stand the test of time. These items are essential in schools and will be used every day so you want to ensure that you have chosen quality materials that will not need replacing regularly. This will help your school’s purse strings and keep its carbon footprint in check.
- Consider greener alternatives such as recycled paper and upgrading your technology and appliances to modern energy-efficient models.
- Recycle everything. Ensure that your school is littered with recycling bins for students and teachers to use.
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 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.