Simple Steps Towards Business Sustainability

Julie Starr • July 4, 2021



Fortunately, we’re living in a world where science and technology are able to identify the extent of the negative impact human activity is having on the planet we live on. Many of us are shocked by the results and are taking active steps towards leading more environmentally friendly lives and lifestyles. Of course, it’s all good and well implementing these measures into our personal lives. But as a society, we need businesses to follow suit. A huge amount of damage is a result of business operations and if all companies worked together to reduce their carbon footprint and use better business practices, the benefit for the planet could be tremendous! Now, it can often feel difficult to know exactly where to start when it comes to running a business that is less damaging for the planet. But the steps below could help you to get off to the best start possible!

Choose Eco-Friendly Commercial Energy Suppliers

Every business needs energy to run. Whether that’s to run office spaces, machinery, or anything else. Whatever amount of energy you’re using, it’s best if this energy comes from a green supplier. Of course, in a bid to save money, the majority of small businesses opt for the cheapest commercial energy supplier on the market. But if you find that the cheapest option isn’t an eco-friendly one, it can prove more than worth paying a little extra to use more ethical energy. There are countless suppliers out there, so browse the market and see which best suits your business and its needs. If you’re ready and willing to invest in eco friendly energy generators yourself, such as solar panels, you can take an extra step and generate your own green energy. This can cost less in the long run.

Recycle

By now, every workplace should be recycling. This isn’t something that we should solely be doing in our own homes. Invest in color-coded bins that staff can then use to separate their waste. You can then have this collected and recycled!

Add CSR Clauses Into Your Contracts

It’s one thing making your own business more eco-friendly. But it’s going to take many businesses working together to make a huge impact. One way that you can do this? By adding corporate social responsibility (or “CSR”) clauses into your contracts with other businesses you use or work alongside. The majority of small businesses enter into collaborative contracts with other companies, from contracts with businesses who are making your products, businesses collaborating for product collections or marketing campaigns or anything else. You should seriously consider implementing CSR clauses into any contract that you write up with any of these businesses. By implementing these clauses into your contracts, you can ensure that the businesses you’re working with are taking eco-friendly measures as sincerely as you are. This encourages more companies to go above and beyond the minimum legal requirements of ethical practice. Of course, these clauses can focus on any ethical subject from workplace safety training & compliance to fair wage issues. But you can choose to focus on environmental sustainability within your own. This also works well from a PR perspective, as customers will appreciate you using companies and services that align with your business’ values and their values as a consumer.

Reduce Your Paper Consumption

Now, paper is preferable to plastic. But if you are using excess paper, you should do what you can to reduce your paper consumption. This will help to reduce deforestation, save the rainforests and minimize habitat destruction . With technological improvements,  there are now many ways to make the switch from countless paper documents stored in cabinets to online documents. When you think about it, chances are, your business gets through a fair amount of paper on a daily basis. Making this change can reduce waste and minimize deforestation. For documents that do need to be printed for some reason, try to stock up on ethically sourced, recycled options.

Of course, it may take a little time to implement all of these changes into your business and the way that it runs itself. But by taking one step at a time, you can gradually shift your business’ operations and ensure that you’re running a company that can safely say it’s running in a green and fair manner. It’s more than worth the effort and investment – not only now but for the future too!

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.