The world economy already depended on shipping goods all around the world, but now that online shopping has become so prominent, efficient shipping and handling have only risen in demand. While you may be more concerned about moving goods as fast as possible, we must consider the environmental implications. Here are a few ways cargo shipping can be more environmentally friendly.
Greener Packaging
Packaging is always necessary to protect goods and keep them organized. How we package these goods, however, can be improved to ensure the packaging itself doesn’t go to waste. For example, shipping companies should consider the aspects of used shipping containers rather than buying new ones. This simple element of recycling ensures containers see use for their entire lifespan.
For smaller shipping processes, using materials like cardboard boxes, cornstarch packaging, or compostable mailers will ensure the packaging can be recycled or will safely compost and return to the soil after recipients throw it out.
Insulating Warehouses
Another way cargo shipping can be more environmentally friendly is by focusing on the warehouses that store goods. Most warehouses provide the bare minimum of protective shelter and are made of thin sheets of metal. This lack of insulation can be a huge waste of energy, as companies use AC and heating units to compensate. By constructing warehouses with sustainability in mind, climate control will come easier and use a lot less energy to achieve the correct environment.
Shipping in Bulk
Shipping in bulk is already a common practice—it saves time, money, and resources. Still, there is room for improvement. Many packaging types are wasteful because they’re not sized to the product—often wasting space and making the product bulkier to transport. By being more efficient with how we package products, we can ship in bulk, thus reducing the fuel and resources necessary to transport everything.
A good way to solve this issue is with corrugated box-making machines. You can easily construct appropriately sized packaging that stacks neatly with other boxes. This will make organizing goods much easier and more efficient, enabling you to take advantage of your cargo space.
