Sustainability Ideas for Your Business

Julie Starr • June 11, 2021



In the past cost reduction was all that mattered to businesses that wanted to turn a profit and grow, but these days the motivations and practices need to be more sustainable and progressive to achieve the same results. This is largely due to changes in consumer demand, culture, and government policies. 

So how can you make your business more sustainable? You can start by reading the ideas in this article and taking steps to implement them in your business. If you’re not thinking about sustainable packaging and ethical distribution channels today, you will be in the near future. 

Change you packaging 

The days of cheap plastic packaging are all but over, even companies that still use it will admit that it’s less viable due to the changes in customer expectations. Additionally, sustainable packaging can also be cheap and it provides an effective marketing tool. 

If your business is using cheaply produced plastic it’s an excellent area to look at to grow your business and make it more progressive. Sustainable packaging can be FSC cardboard or biodegradable plastic. 

Redesign your distribution 

Making your business more sustainable is about looking at your processes and materials and making decisions based on environmental and marketing criteria. When it comes to your distribution channels there is likely to be room for improvement. 

Initially, businesses are set up to be as cost-effective as possible, but that isn’t always the most sustainable methodology. Today’s savvy consumers are well aware of distribution channels and can see how a company performs on sustainability. 

Take sustainable payments

The world of payment processing is changing and becoming more sustainable as a result. Digital wallets and online money might not be in the mainstream just yet but with more platforms and systems emerging, like card scanners , it’s only a matter of time. 

So how is this way of taking payments more sustainable? In the first instance, there is no paper money, instead, there are ——, so there is a smaller carbon footprint as a result. Unlike cash, digital payments only use a fraction of the energy to produce and distribute. 

Chemical-free cleaning 

If you want to make your business more sustainable you need to target the big stuff like your distribution channels and your packaging, but equally, you need to think about how your company is running internally and whether you need to introduce more eco-friendly products. 

Chemical-free cleaning is easier than ever with more brands and products catering to this practice. Chemical-free cleaning is often as effective as products using bleach and other chemicals that are damaging to the water supply.

Energy efficiency 

As with Chemical-free cleaning within your business you need to look at the energy efficiency of your building to see if you can make any reductions and savings. Considering your business energy efficiency is both sustainable and cost-effective. 

Some ideas include investing in eco-friendly appliances like eco kettles and smaller computers and laptops with a variety of standby features. You might also optimize your office for energy efficiency and install a smart meter to track energy usage.

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.