What Should Do if You Want To Go Paperless (but You Can’t)?

Julie Starr • June 29, 2021



Everybody is trying to make their business sustainable. And this means that when we start to think about how we can do our bit for the environment, it goes way deep into the cultural aspects of our business. But sometimes, we start to overthink matters. Because businesses need to make seismic changes through cultural components, they can easily overlook the smaller factions that can make a significant difference. Case in point: going paperless . Cutting down on the paper you use is a very simple way to help, but what happens if you try to go paperless, but you just can’t? Going digital is easy, but it’s about making sure that the paper doesn’t come back into the business. Let’s show you what you need to do. 

Surround Yourself With Similar Mindsets

The difficulty of dealing with aspects of a supply chain means that you can’t always find people that have the same mindset. But it’s important to not make massive changes right away. If you are trying to change your thinking, the best way to do this is to surround yourself and work with people who are also environmentally conscious. There are times when you may need to print things but when you do this, consider making the purchases that make the least impact. A company like Aura Print focuses on digital cards, but will always work with businesses that embody the same sort of mindset. It’s a very key component to doing business effectively. When you start to work with like-minded people, it provides you with a positive influence to keep pushing forward for constructive change. 

Forget About the Backlog

One of the best ways to consider going paperless is to forget about how much paper you’ve already accumulated. It’s so easy for us to focus on past habits when we should be looking forward. Instead of looking back, adopt a forward-thinking approach. The fact is that if you are trying to go paperless, now is the time for you to make that change. Rather than looking backward and trying to digitize all of your paper files, which can be counterintuitive, instead, make sure that the backlog doesn’t get any bigger. Sign up for digital payments and email statements. If you are a business that still sends checks on a regular basis, you’ve got to make the switch to pay online. Many companies have had digital payments for years, but there are still some who will not accept online payments. When you are dealing with certain suppliers, they may still be stuck in the 1990s, and if you find yourself in this predicament, you’ve got to explain to them that they will get their money quicker if they accept digital payments. Small businesses can accept bank transfers with minimal fees. Sometimes, when we’re working with older suppliers, they are more stubborn. However, it’s just important to remember that sometimes we have to set an example. 

Scanning and Shredding

You can start to digitize your business through a scanner, but if your business is on the small side, you may not be able to invest in an expensive scanner, however, there are plenty of smartphone apps that you can use to scan information. Once you start to scan, put the paper in the shredder. When you dispose of the paper into the shredder, you’ve done everything you can. It can be difficult to follow that habit, especially if you don’t have time, but just take the opportunity to spend five minutes per day scanning from your backlog, to see how smoothly it goes. You can always hire temporary staff to do this for you also. 

Incorporate New Workflows

Scanning and shredding your documents is one approach, but as you get more comfortable with your paperless approach, you may discover you will need more workflows. This could mean that you need to create a new content management system, especially if you need to keep information on clients, such as their business number, contact details, etc. 

It’s also important to remember that you shouldn’t overthink it. When you are facing a difficult predicament as to whether you should go paperless with certain parts of the business, it can be tough. Going paperless should make your life easier. You may feel guilty that you got a few extra pieces of paper floating around, but you need to remember that if you are holding onto pointless papers, get rid of them, but also, you shouldn’t bother digitizing papers that serve no purpose. When in doubt, shred it, and let it go. Going paperless is not always straightforward, because there are different ideologies and attitudes to going completely digital. But when you are in doubt, try a few of these methods to see how it goes.

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.