ECO-FRIENDLY E-COMMERCE: HOW TO GO GREEN AND SAVE MONEY

Whether you're running a large online operation or just getting started with your Shopify store, it's absolutely possible to cut costs while doing your part for the planet. As a Shopify agency focused on sustainable growth, we’ve worked with brands who care about making conscious choices, and the results speak for themselves.

In this blog, we’ll break down actionable steps to make your e-commerce business greener, leaner, and more cost-effective.

Choose Eco-Aligned Partners From Day One

If sustainability is part of your brand mission, that should extend to everyone you work with, especially marketing agencies, fulfilment providers, and manufacturers. Partnering with like-minded businesses helps you:

1) Stay consistent in your messaging and brand values

2) Avoid misalignment that could damage your reputation

3) Save time and money by avoiding costly partner changes down the line

We recommend vetting vendors early to ensure they share your green goals, this small step can yield big savings in the long run.

Opt for Green Web Hosting

Running your store online is already a more eco-conscious alternative to a physical storefront, but you can take it a step further by choosing a platform that prioritises sustainability. That’s where Shopify shines.

Shopify uses green hosting services to minimise energy consumption and reduce its carbon footprint. Its infrastructure is powered by renewable energy sources like wind and solar, which means your Shopify store runs on clean energy from day one.

By choosing Shopify, you're not just getting a powerful e-commerce platform, you’re also aligning your brand with environmentally responsible practices. This sends a strong message to eco-conscious consumers and helps you build a more sustainable and future-proof business.

Reduce Energy Use in Your Day-to-Day

Going green starts with your own operations. Try these simple, budget-friendly habits:

1) Turn off computers, printers, and lights when not in use

2) Use sleep/energy-saving modes on all devices

3) Choose a renewable energy supplier for your office or workspace

4) Unsubscribe from unnecessary marketing emails (yes, even those take energy to send/store!)

These changes add up, both for your budget and the environment.

Be Smart With Packaging & Returns

Shipping is a major part of any e-commerce business, and it’s also where waste adds up fast.

Eco-friendly packaging tips:

1) Choose biodegradable or recycled materials

2) Reuse shipping boxes and void fill when possible

3) Print shipping labels with low-impact inks

Reduce returns:

1) Write detailed product descriptions

2) Use high-quality, accurate product images

3) Add sizing guides, FAQs, or customer reviews to prevent wrong purchases

Bonus tip: Instead of disposing of returned goods, resell them on marketplaces like eBay or donate them. This saves landfill waste and recoups costs.

Turn Recyclables Into Revenue

Think your cardboard, glass, or plastic waste is just trash? Think again.

Through platforms like The Green Alchemist, businesses can sell their recyclable materials directly to buyers turning waste into revenue.

Here's how it works:

1) Separate your recyclables instead of tossing everything in a single bin

2) List your waste materials on the marketplace

3) Connect with buyers looking for exactly what you're throwing away

Especially for Shopify stores handling lots of shipping supplies, this can become a recurring income stream and reduce your disposal costs.

Final Thoughts

Sustainability doesn’t have to be expensive or complicated. In fact, eco-friendly practices often lead to real savings, and customers love brands that care.

At Why Matters, we help e-commerce businesses build stores and systems that reflect their values, without sacrificing performance or profit.

Want help making your e-commerce brand greener? Let’s talk. We offer store audits and green setup consultations tailored to your goals.