From the use of raw materials, energy, and greenhouse gases to the transportation impact of supply chains and the handling of harsh chemicals and solid waste, the retail industry’s carbon footprint continues to harm the environment. As things like climate change, low air quality, pollution, and the depletion of natural resources become more apparent, companies large and small have taken steps to make positive changes.
By implementing more sustainable practices, many brands have dramatically reduced their carbon footprint. Not only do these efforts help the environment, but they save money while attracting eco-conscious consumers and boosting sales. Here’s a closer look at some of the eco-friendly solutions they used.
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Digital Products
Offering digital products has allowed businesses to reduce waste from manufacturing and shipping dramatically. Through eCommerce sites, customers can purchase products ranging from eBooks and software to music and online services and gain access instantly. It’s better for the planet, convenient for consumers, and saves businesses thousands of dollars on operational expenses.
Local Suppliers
From clothes and shoes to food and electronics, the transportation of goods to brick and mortar locations causes air pollution. Local sourcing for nearby manufacturers, shippers, and suppliers offer a practical solution. Since the distance to transport goods is shortened, it lowers fuel emissions, significantly preserving the environment. As a bonus, using local vendors saves businesses money while also stimulating the local economy.
Eco-Friendly Fleets
Another way brands have reduced fuel emission is by investing in electric vehicles. Companies have traded in their older model, gas-guzzling, high emission cars, trucks, and vans for more fuel-efficient options. These changes have improved air quality and saved money on gas without compromising the quality of service.
Charging Stations
Business execs aren’t the only ones purchasing electric vehicles. As auto manufacturers develop trendy, convenient, and affordable eco-friendly products, more consumers are making the switch. Wanting to accommodate their target customers’ needs while doing their part to save the planet, retailers have installed electric car chargers in their brick and mortar locations.
Customers can simply search to find a dc fast charger and be routed to your place of business. While waiting for their vehicles to charge, customers can conveniently shop and often purchase things they need saving them time. These stations also help businesses to save on fueling their own company cars and fleets.
Water and Energy-Efficient Products
Brands interested in improving the in-store experience for their eco-conscious customer base decided to take things a step further by installing conservation devices. Cutting back on energy consumption was resolved with products like LED lights, programmable thermostats, energy-efficient appliances. Installing hands-free faucets and motion sensor air dryers in the bathrooms have also proven beneficial.
Farm to Table Dining
Restaurants have gotten creative with helping to preserve the environment while improving the wellbeing of their customers. While some opted to purchase produce and poultry from local farmers and butchers, other restaurants have started growing their own organic fruits and vegetables. Known as farm-to-table dining, this sustainable solution gives customers healthier cuisine while saving restaurants the cost of having them shipped from long-distance vendors.
Reusable Shopping Bags
Allowing customers to choose paper bags or recycle their plastic bags at bins located on the premises is a significant first step for businesses looking to do more for the environment. Some companies, however, have taken it a step further by offering customers reusable shopping bags. Customers can purchase uniquely designed bags made from recyclable materials to be used every time they shop. As most of these reusable shopping bags have the company’s name and logo printed on them, they also serve as great branding tools.
The global environment is in grave danger. If people don’t start working together to change, humanity’s future may cease to exist. As more people become aware of these facts, businesses have gone the extra mile to address the problem. By investing in sustainable solutions like those listed above, brands large and small have reduced their carbon footprint, helped the environment, lower company costs, expand their reach, and boost sales.
