The survey of more than 500 internet shoppers,  conducted by logistics firm Dotcom Distribution, found widespread support for environmentally-friendly packaging and green supply chain practices.

Around 61% of respondents considered green packaging in their shopping choices with 57% saying it is important to them.

“Today’s consumers are environmentally aware, and making changes to become more environmentally friendly is one of the best things you can do as a brand,” said of Dotcom Distribution CEO Maria Haggerty.

“Brands that are not able to make sustainable changes themselves should look to third-party logistics providers that can help implement these changes in a cost-effective way.”

Business footprint

Survey respondents were also concerned about individual retailers’ carbon footprints, with 55% considering this impact. 64% claimed they considered supply chain practices when deciding between brands.

Haggerty pointed to the examples of major online retailers like Amazon, which has committed to 100% renewable energy, and waged a ‘war on waste’

However she added that smaller companies don’t need vast resources to improve their sustainability credentials:

“Green packaging comes in many forms, and retailers can consider various different factors like inks, source materials and recyclability when deciding to make environmentally friendly changes,” said Haggerty.

“For brands looking to reduce their carbon footprints but lack the resources to do so, implementing one or two small, cost-effective changes will still make a big difference.” 

Tech giant Apple has also been actively improving its green credentials over the past year, purchasing renewable energy agreements, and 36,000 acres of American forests.

UK online fashion store ASOS has also burnished its green reputation, pledging to end suppply chain deforestation.

Brad Allen

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