Carbon neutral shipping is a practice of transporting goods where the net carbon dioxide output is as close to zero as possible. It is achieved through both emission reduction and offsetting the carbon that is produced. Carbon neutral shipping abides by the values of net-zero emissions, which means that it strives to achieve net-zero emissions for the shipping of all packages. Companies can achieve carbon-neutral shipping by seeking carbon-friendly transportation, such as electric vehicles, or offsetting the carbon emissions produced throughout the shipping and handling process. Carbon-neutral shipping is important because shipping and handling processes are imperative for worldwide industries, and they contribute to carbon emissions.
Carbon-neutral shipping is not a perfect solution, as it cannot prevent the emissions created from the travel required for packages to reach their final destination. However, it is still beneficial to the environment, as it can help provide a net-zero effect on the carbon emissions produced from activities associated with shipping a package. Carbon-neutral shipping can also benefit businesses by reducing shipping costs and fulfilling new customer demands.
To achieve carbon-neutral shipping, businesses can calculate their carbon footprint, collaborate with their supply chain, and consider options that make shipping faster and carbon-free. They can also purchase carbon offsets to compensate for carbon emitted through operations and transportation. Fulfillment providers like ShipBob provide carbon-neutral shipping solutions for online brands, including an integration and partnership with Ecocart.