How & Why Sustainable Energy Should Power Your Business

Julie Starr • June 16, 2021



We have an incredible shift in the consumer culture of our countries. Lately, the wave of eco-consciousness has overtaken every part of our society. It’s been a long time coming and finally, governments and regulators are paying attention to how consumers are changing. Customers nowadays will be happy to pay more for sustainable natural products rather than cheap and polluting products. The eco-friendly movement has swept into the corporate side of the business too. One of the main focuses is to power businesses, using green energy instead of the methods of old. Here are some of the ways which are gathering pace.

Old but new

Crude oil and natural gas are the two most popular energy types for businesses. Although they are going to be made obsolete by electric methods, they are still very much needed. For one thing, they are cheap and their pollution can be controlled. Modern sustainable oil and gas energy services seem to have cracked the code. This company produces oil and gas using greener methods, which has helped them to stay ahead of the competition. They now supply 5 billion cubic feet a day, to over 700 industrial clients. If you need oil for your business assets such as cargo ships or other types of freight, make sure it’s sourced sustainably. This will allow you to market your business in a more eco-friendly light, which could help to retain customers. 

 

Manufacturing and solar energy

It will come as no surprise to you that manufacturing uses a lot of energy. The main power for manufacturing plants is electricity. However, this electricity is made by oil and gas plants. Rather than wait for other companies to become eco-friendly, you should try to install a hybrid energy approach. Solar PV panels on the roof of your manufacturing plant could help to cut costs, and make your business far more sustainable. By the end of 2016 , solar power officially became the cheapest energy source in the world. In fact, Tesla’s new gigafactory will be powered completely by solar power , such has the technology advanced so quickly. Nowadays, there is no excuse why large flat surfaces on industrial facilities do not have solar panels.

Wind power

If your business is located in rural parts of the country, wind power is never far away. Wind power is a very common energy source for many rural business types, such as those in agriculture, manufacturing, warehouses, and product test sites. You should find out if wind power is being offered near your premises by checking the renewable energy map of your country. It’s quite common for wind power to be one of the first energy options offered to businesses in rural parts, because of its location. Wind power may be stored for city use and may not be used as readily as gas or oil. So as a business, you get priority of wind energy supply.

You need to invest

There’s no other way to get eco-friendly energy off the floor and around the world unless businesses that need energy invest in it. Businesses cannot expect to wait around and hope the government will get their act together and fund green energy projects. This is why Tesla and other major companies are taking on the challenge by themselves. This way, they get multiple advantages such as:

  • They own the IP of new sustainable energy. If you create a brilliant new solar panel to power your business, other businesses will want that tech. Why not sell it to them while owning the rights to the tech itself? This is a great return on investment.
  • You also avoid penalties that governments will impose on polluting businesses. Not to mention, since you are not asking the public purse to be opened for your energy needs, you also get a favorable seat at the government’s table. 
  • The bottom line is, if your business becomes energy self-sufficient, you protect yourself from all sorts of harm. Volatile market prices in oil and gas won’t affect you. You will not have to rely on another energy business to power your business. You’re less likely to be at the mercy of power cuts, etc.

There is no excuse why you cannot utilize green energy for your business needs. Whether you’re in manufacturing or just have offices, you should seek to find out what type of eco-friendly power options you have. The sooner you invest in green energy, the sooner you can make the transition from ‘old’ unclean power to future-proof energy.

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.