How To Make Sure Your Business Is Shipping Sustainably

Julie Starr • January 17, 2022



Online sales were on a growth path long before COVID19 struck the world down. After seeing the effects of the pandemic, businesses have even more reason to develop a strong online presence . For many businesses, that is going to mean shipping physical goods to customers. With that in mind, here are six tips on how to make sure that your shipping is sustainable.

Minimize customer returns

Customer returns are a huge issue for online retailers. Getting to grips with them will improve your margins as well as make you more sustainable. The good news is that getting to grips with returns is more about thoroughness and attention to detail than it is about your budget.

What you need to understand is that the majority of customers who return goods do so because the goods didn’t meet their expectations. There is a very small percentage of customers who use the returns system as a way to scam retailers. If, however, you’re running effective anti-fraud measures you should be able to catch most if not all of these.

Stopping customers from making genuine returns essentially boils down to making sure that they have all the information they need to make an informed decision before they buy. More specifically, it means ensuring that they have that information at their fingertips rather than having to search for it.

In general, the easiest way to achieve this is to implement a chatbot system. That way, you can keep your web pages clean and attractive but still give customers all the information they need. Additionally, it’s a good idea to provide lots of photos and/or videos. In some cases, you might even want to create an app to allow customers to visualize the product in their real life.

Keep on top of your inventory

Keeping on top of your inventory will minimize your chances of having to send goods by air to compensate for delays in getting new stock. It will also minimize your chances of having goods returned purely because they arrived too late.

Prior to COVID19, it was fairly common practice for businesses to operate just-in-time shipping processes. They also tended to ship from central distribution hubs, often in China. Before the pandemic, these tended to work fairly well most of the time. Even then, however, there were noticeable problems with the system.

Post COVID19 it could be well worth considering having a bank of inventory to protect you against shipping delays. If you routinely ship internationally, it could also be worth considering keeping stock in hubs near your main customer bases. You could have a partner ship them out to your end customers from there.

This approach is often a win for customer service as well as sustainability. It means that goods can be transported most of the way using slower transport options. They can then go to the last leg by air if necessary. If, however, the goods are closer to the customers, you may be able to make more frequent use of slower and more sustainable transport options.

Take packaging seriously

If you’re packaging your own products then make a commitment to review your packaging on a regular basis. That means at least once a year. This will allow you to adapt your packaging quickly to reflect the changes that inevitably come with time.  

For example, people may discover more sustainable ways of packing either using new materials or using existing materials in a new way. Alternatively, stakeholders such as governments may update rules/taxes relating to the use of packaging materials. These changes generally favor more sustainable options.

Both developments in packaging and regulatory changes tend to be flagged well in advance of going mainstream/being implemented. It’s therefore highly advisable to pay attention to relevant news sources so you always stay on top of the latest news and can respond quickly.

No matter what packaging you use, err on the side of excess when it comes to protective materials. Slightly overpacking an item is less of a sustainability hazard than slightly underpacking it. This is because it minimizes the chances of the goods being damaged and hence being returned and/or discarded.

Make sure you know shipping rules

 

If you break shipping rules, even by accident, then you’re setting yourself up for trouble. You may get away with it on the odd occasion but the chances are you won’t. This is particularly true if you’re sending goods by air.  

The aviation industry takes customer security extremely seriously. This means that air cargo is scanned very thoroughly before it gets put on the plane. If there is anything wrong at all, the package will generally be either held or returned. Generally, it will be held if there is an issue with documentation and returned if the package cannot be transported for some other reason.

Both holds and returns are an inconvenience. From a sustainability perspective, returns are far worse. As with customer returns, they are a largely avoidable drain on resources, including and especially carbon.

Have a robust shipping process

You need a documented shipping process to ensure that everyone gets everything they ordered sent where they want it sent with minimal delay. This process should cover literally every step in the order-dispatch process. That includes prior actions such as ordering packaging, and the kind of shipping containers your logistics partner is able to provide..

An effective shipping process will allow you to use the most sustainable and cost-effective methods for sending your items. For example, it will allow you to see when it’s better to send items in one package and when it’s better to send items in multiple packages.

It will eliminate the need to send items separately purely because the packer forgot (or didn’t know) to add them to the main order. It can also help to minimize returns since it should eliminate issues with goods arriving after they are needed.

Proactively manage your customers’ behavior

Try to encourage your customers to use more sustainable shipping options whenever possible. For example, offer free shipping by land and sea but charge a premium for air. You might also want to consider implementing a reward scheme and offering extra points for choosing more sustainable shipping options.

Eco-Friendly Garden Prep: Summer Tips for a Greener Business Space

By Julie Starr • June 5, 2025
If you're lucky enough to have a garden as part of your business, taking some time to set it up for summer is a great investment of your energy. Not only will it be ready for your customers to spend time in, but you can also incorporate some eco-friendly elements into it. Many people just think about the property and what eco-friendly updates they can make , but there are plenty that you can implement in your garden. This gives you the best of both worlds. You own a sacred and beautiful place for your customers to spend their summer, and at the same time, you can do your part for a better planet. If this is the route you want to take, then you also need to consider how to do this with the different seasons. To help you on your journey, here are some top tips for preparing your garden for summer. Plant trees and flowers Planting trees and flowers in your garden is a must. It will make a beautiful scene of nature for everyone to enjoy. Trees will provide people and animals with shade, as well as provide a habitat for wildlife. More trees are needed in the world because they purify the air that we breathe. Flowers, especially if you plant with pollinators in mind, can be an excellent way to attract bees and butterflies, which contribute largely to the earth. Use natural pest control When preparing your garden for summer, you can do this more sustainably and kindly by using natural pest control. Simply by planting trees and flowers, you are likely to attract lots of different wildlife, some of which may destroy your efforts. While all wildlife should be considered, you may need to take measures. Some better and more eco-friendly ways you can do this, as opposed to spraying toxic chemicals onto your plants and into the air, you can implement companion planting, using protective nets over your crops, choosing resilient plants, using natural repellents, and encouraging natural predators so nature can do its thing. Maintain your garden Maintaining your garden in itself can make it more eco-friendly. Composting your garden waste regularly, and kitchen waste can help you to reduce overall waste and create nutrient-rich soil. This is a great cycle of sustainability. You can also keep on top of things that need cleaning and replacing, so you can recycle the materials for other garden structures and projects, and repurpose things around your garden before they become waste. If you have features in your garden like a swimming pool, then a regular pool maintenance service is going to be vital in keeping your water consumption to a minimum, as when it is cleaned and maintained, it will need to be drained and refilled less as well as using less energy. You could also consider how you can use natural purification methods to reduce chemical usage and support biodiversity right in your backyard. Your garden is just an eco-friendly project waiting to be built. Use these top tips to help you get started.

The Impact of Sustainable Practices on the Food Service Industry

By Julie Starr • June 3, 2025
Sustainability is no longer something that can be considered optional in many businesses, including the food industry. From fast casual to fine dining, businesses face pressure to reduce waste, cut emissions, and use resources responsibly. Customers noticed, so too did regulators. This shift isn't about trends; it's about long-term business health. Operators now rethink everything: ingredients, packaging, equipment, and even furniture. The choices that they make affect cost, reputation, and the environment. Forward-thinking brands see sustainability as a chance to stand out, align with customer values, save money, and future-proof their business. Let's look at how sustainable practices are shaping the future of food service and why furniture choices matter more than ever. Sustainable Sourcing and Supply Chains Restaurants are choosing local, seasonal, and organic ingredients. More often, this reduces transportation emissions and supports nearby farms. It also appeals to customers who want food with a story. Sourcing matters; a restaurant that serves organic produce imported from thousands of miles away loses credibility. Local sourcing, when possible, keeps the supply chain shorter and more resilient. They also build community relationships. Sustainable seafood, fair trade coffee, and certified humane meat are becoming menu standards. But it's not just food; suppliers that use low-impact materials, avoid single-use plastics, or operate zero-waste facilities are getting more attention. Working with responsible vendors reduces environmental impact and strengthens the restaurant's reputation. It also makes it easier to meet sustainability benchmarks and certifications. Reducing Food Waste and Single-Use Plastics Food waste is expensive. Restaurants are responding with better forecasting, smaller portions, and creative ways to repurpose ingredients. Many now donate leftovers or compost scraps. Smart kitchen systems have reduced waste by tracking usage and spoilage. Front of house, more places encourage guests to take home leftovers or offer flexible portion sizes. Single-use plastics are also being phased out; straws, cutlery, and containers are switching to compostable or reusable versions. Many cities now require this, but even without mandates, customers expect it. Small changes make a big difference, such as swapping plastic lids for fiber-based ones or using reusable containers for takeout. In the long run, it also sends a clear message about your brand Energy Efficiency and Equipment Choices Energy use is a major cost for food service businesses. Upgrading to energy-efficient appliances, lighting, and HVAC systems can contribute significantly. Induction cooktops, LED lighting , low-flow faucets, and energy-saving refrigeration reduce the environmental footprint. Some kitchens are even going all-electric to reduce reliance on gas. Smart energy monitoring systems provide real-time insights; this helps operators find waste, track trends, and make better decisions. Beyond the kitchen, some restaurants invest in solar panels or purchase renewable energy. It shows leadership and appeals to customers who care about climate action. Designing with Sustainability in Mind Interior design now plays a role in sustainability. Choosing eco-friendly materials and modular furniture reduces waste and supports the circular economy. Furniture companies that sell food service furniture offer tables, chairs, and booths made from recycled or responsibly sourced wood, metal, and plastics. Their products are durable, stylish, and built to last, reducing the need for frequent replacements. Long-lasting furniture means fewer items in landfills. Plus, some suppliers offer take-back programs or extended product life. The right furniture also supports flexible layouts, which is important for adapting to changing service models like outdoor dining or shared spaces. Aligning with Customer Expectations More diners care about sustainability than ever before. It’s something that is extremely prominent in today’s dining experience. They want to support places that reflect their values. Transparency matters too , diners want to know exactly what businesses are doing to be more sustainable. Posting sourcing details, using certifications, and showing behind-the-scenes efforts builds trust. Sustainability isn't just a back-of-house concern; it should be visible throughout the customer journey. Guests notice packaging, signage, cleaning products, and even furniture. If your chairs are made from reclaimed wood or your tables are built from recycled metal, it becomes part of the story you tell. Employees also want to work for businesses that care; sustainability efforts can boost morale, improve retention, and create a strong workplace culture. Being consistent across all touchpoints helps turn sustainability from a checklist into a core part of your brand identity. Tracking Progress and Measuring Impact To stay on track, businesses need to measure what matters. Sustainability isn't guesswork; it's data-driven. Many restaurants now set goals for waste reduction, water usage, and carbon emissions. Digital dashboards, smart meters, and waste tracking apps provide clear feedback. Certifications like LEED , Green Restaurant Association, or B Corp can help validate progress, but the real value comes from aligning with goals and quickly reporting results. This transparency involves sharing results with staff and customers. This builds trust and shows accountability. Food service brands that track their impact tend to improve faster; they spot problems early and share wins more confidently. A culture of measurement helps maintain steady progress and keeps sustainability top of mind. Collaborating Across the Industry No restaurant can do it alone. Real change happens through partnerships. Food services need ot consider teaming up with local farms, recycling programs, and talking to local councils about any green schemes . This collaboration speeds up progress and helps avoid mistakes. Industry groups and supply networks now host workshops and certifications focused on sustainability. These shared resources help smaller businesses catch up and stay competitive. Technology platforms also make collaboration easier. Apps that connect surplus food with charities or tools for joint purchasing of sustainable goods are helping restaurants work smarter together. By building strong networks, the industry strengthens itself. Working together, sustainability leads to better outcomes and stronger communities. Conclusion: Building a Sustainable Future in Food Service Sustainability touches every part of the food service industry, from menus to materials. The shift toward responsible choices is clear. Restaurants that act now gain a competitive edge; they reduce costs, attract loyal customers, and stay ahead of regulations. The transition doesn't have to be all or nothing; small steps lead to big changes. Choosing eco-friendly furniture, like the options from food service furniture, is one of the smart steps. It shows commitment, supports long-term value, and elevates the dining experience. Sustainability is no longer an add-on; it’s a business essential. For those who embrace it, it can be a source of growth, loyalty, and resilience.