Greener Shipping Alternatives for Fashion Brands
Fashion brands face a big challenge: shipping goods sustainably. Here's why it matters and how they can make a difference:
- Shipping's Impact: The fashion industry contributes 10% of global greenhouse gas emissions. Air freight is 10x worse than sea shipping and 50x more carbon-intensive than maritime shipping.
- Consumer Demand: 66% of consumers prioritize sustainability, and 2/3 are willing to pay more for eco-friendly brands.
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Solutions:
- Ocean Freight with Biofuels: Cuts CO₂ emissions by up to 80%.
- Rail Transport: 75% fewer emissions than trucks.
- Electric Last-Mile Delivery: Reduces emissions by 55%.
- Eco-Friendly Packaging: Paper, starch-based, and reusable systems lower waste and emissions.
- Supply Chain Optimization: Local sourcing, order consolidation, and longer lead times reduce emissions and costs.
Is Shopping Online Unsustainable? The Impact of Shipping
Clean Shipping Methods
Fashion brands can cut shipping emissions while maintaining reliable delivery services. These approaches not only help the environment but also bring cost savings and operational efficiency.
Ocean Freight with Low-Emission Biofuels
Ocean freight already generates far fewer emissions than air transport, and using low-emission biofuels takes it a step further. For instance, B20 biofuel blends can lower CO₂ emissions by 15–20% (and up to 25% under ideal conditions), while B100 reduces emissions by as much as 80% compared to traditional marine fuels. Switching to biodiesel also slashes sulfur oxide emissions by 90%, improving air quality around ports and supporting marine ecosystems. In fact, areas adopting biodiesel have reported a 10–15% boost in local biodiversity. Plus, algae-based biodiesel absorbs up to 70% of CO₂ during production, adding to its environmental benefits [4].
The best part? Biodiesel works seamlessly with existing marine equipment and storage systems, so brands can make the switch without overhauling their supply chains. For long-distance land shipments, rail and intermodal transport offer another eco-friendly solution.
Rail and Intermodal Transport
Rail transport stands out as one of the greenest options for long-distance domestic shipping. It’s 3–4 times more fuel-efficient than trucks, cutting greenhouse gas emissions by an impressive 75% on average [5]. A single intermodal train can carry the same load as about 280 trucks, with each ton of cargo traveling roughly 473 miles on just one gallon of fuel [7]. For shipments over 1,000 miles, intermodal transport uses about 65% less fuel and emits significantly less CO₂ than road transport. To put it in perspective, moving 40,000 lbs. of freight over 3,000 miles by truck produces 17.4 tons of carbon emissions, while the same shipment via intermodal transport generates only 7.0 tons [9].
Real-world examples highlight these advantages. In 2023, the Girteka Group saved nearly 17 million kilograms of CO₂ by incorporating intermodal rail services. Similarly, Norfolk Southern trains can haul a ton of freight over 400 miles on just a gallon of fuel, making rail transport up to seven times more fuel-efficient than trucking [8][6].
While rail transport may require slightly longer lead times, its environmental and cost benefits make it an excellent option for non-urgent deliveries between major hubs. For urban delivery, electric and hybrid vehicles are taking the lead.
Electric and Hybrid Last-Mile Delivery
The last mile of delivery, often the most emissions-intensive, presents a major opportunity for improvement. In urban areas, last-mile delivery can account for up to 25% of total CO₂ emissions [10].
Leading companies are already making changes. In the UK, DPD has deployed over 1,500 electric vehicles for urban deliveries, significantly cutting emissions. FedEx, meanwhile, has committed to converting its entire pickup and delivery fleet to electric vehicles by 2040 [10][11]. Innovative solutions like electric cargo bikes are also gaining momentum. For example, Absolutely Couriers won the Institute of Couriers' Clean Air Award in 2021 for creating London’s largest zero-emissions electric cargo bike fleet, enabling fast, same-day deliveries without congestion charges.
Electric and hybrid vehicles not only reduce emissions but also lower operating costs and avoid urban congestion fees and restrictions. By adopting these solutions, fashion brands can meet sustainability goals while cutting supply chain expenses and improving efficiency.
DorsaLi incorporates these eco-friendly shipping methods to align with our sustainability commitment and meet the expectations of environmentally conscious consumers.
Eco-Friendly Packaging Solutions
Packaging plays a major role in reducing emissions and waste. The fashion industry alone uses about 180 billion plastic bags annually, with packaging accounting for 26% of global plastic production each year [13]. Alarmingly, only 1% of flexible plastic packaging gets recycled [13]. The good news? Alternatives that are better for the environment are becoming more widely available and affordable.
Plastic-Free and Recycled Packaging
Just like clean shipping helps cut emissions, eco-conscious packaging reduces waste and lessens environmental harm. Paper packaging is a standout option - it’s compostable, biodegradable, recyclable, and reusable [12]. In Europe, the recycling rate for paper hit 71.4% in 2022 [12], making it a dependable choice for brands aiming to embrace circular economy practices.
Another option is starch-based packaging, made from renewable materials like wheat, corn, or potato starch. This type of packaging is fully compostable and biodegradable [12]. For instance, switching to biodegradable starch-based packing peanuts could slash waste by up to 70% [12]. Plus, it’s lighter, which means lower shipping emissions. While it might cost more upfront, the environmental trade-offs make it worth considering.
Mushroom packaging is another creative alternative. Made from mycelium, this biodegradable material is not only lightweight but also stronger than foam and water-resistant [12]. It’s a versatile replacement for traditional foam and bubble wrap.
For example, in 2019, the womenswear brand Apiece Apart made a major shift by replacing 133,825 conventional plastic bags with compostable polybags certified by TIPA. They also used hangtags made from 80% post-consumer content printed with soy-based ink, FSC-certified compostable tissue paper, and boxes crafted from recycled and recyclable materials [12].
Packaging Optimization
Thoughtful packaging design can dramatically cut both shipping emissions and costs. Right-sizing packaging - designing it to minimize empty space - allows more products to fit into each container, reducing the need for void fill materials [15][17]. Amazon, for instance, has reduced its per-shipment packaging weight by an average of 41% since 2015 through smarter design. Similarly, UPS engineers revamped transportation packaging to better utilize space, avoiding oversize charges and fitting more packages per container [15]. These efforts can lead to significant savings: optimized packaging can cut container counts by 12%, saving $1.2 million in just one year [17].
Using lightweight materials like thinner plastic films or lightweight paperboard further reduces material use, waste, and transportation emissions [14]. The goal is simple: create packaging that protects products during transit without excess bulk.
Reusable and Returnable Packaging Systems
Taking things a step further, reusable packaging systems not only cut waste but also streamline operations. Compared to single-use options, reusable packaging can lower carbon emissions by 39–82% and reduce plastic waste by 87% by weight [16]. Consumer preferences back this shift - over 60% of Gen Z buyers see packaging as a reflection of a brand’s values, and 70% of fashion consumers are willing to pay extra for sustainable packaging [18].
Several companies have already seen success with returnable packaging systems. Plaine Products, for example, processed 18,000 orders with about 70% of the packaging returned [19]. FuturumShop tested reusable packaging for 400 shipments in a pilot program [19]. Outpace’s Carrierpac system saves roughly £1 million annually while cutting over 1,000 tons of cardboard waste [19].
Adopting reusable systems isn’t without hurdles. High return rates and efficient logistics can be challenging, and eco-friendly materials can cost up to 30% more than their conventional counterparts [18]. Brands can ease into the transition by starting small - using paper tags, recycled boxes, or biodegradable polybags - and gradually educating customers while building the necessary return infrastructure.
DorsaLi is one example of a company integrating sustainable packaging to reduce shipping impacts and improve customer experience. By exploring these solutions, fashion brands can lower their environmental footprint, save money in the long run, and build stronger connections with their customers.
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Supply Chain Optimization
In addition to adopting cleaner shipping methods, refining supply chain strategies can make a big dent in reducing emissions. Shipping alone contributes 3.5–4% of global climate emissions [2]. For instance, in 2021, transportation made up a staggering 83.6% of Stella McCartney's carbon footprint [2]. The silver lining? Smarter supply chain practices can help cut these emissions significantly.
Order Consolidation and Route Optimization
Combining shipments and refining delivery routes can dramatically lower fuel use and emissions. By maximizing vehicle capacity, companies can reduce the carbon footprint of each product shipped [2].
Chris McGuire, Transportation Operations Manager at GEODIS in Americas, explains it best:
"If we have 10 suppliers all shipping to a big box retailer via LTL, we combine those 10 orders into a single TL shipment and make one delivery, versus 10 to the retail distribution center or store." [20]
Switching from less-than-truckload (LTL) to full truckload (TL) deliveries minimizes stops, cutting down on fuel consumption. Retailers employing consolidation programs - like pooling or cross-docking services - can reduce carbon emissions by an average of 10.3% [20]. For example, CVS’s backhaul program eliminated 500,000 empty miles in 2020 alone [20].
Fashion brands can adopt similar strategies by focusing on energy-efficient delivery routes, fine-tuning manufacturing schedules to reduce reliance on air transport, and collaborating with suppliers to streamline order consolidation [2][20]. Shared logistics, where multiple brands use the same warehouses, distribution hubs, and transport networks, also supports more efficient and environmentally friendly shipping [2].
These methods work hand-in-hand with other supply chain improvements.
Local Sourcing and Manufacturing
Producing goods closer to consumers offers a dual advantage: cutting emissions and streamlining operations. Local sourcing lowers transportation costs, shortens lead times, and reduces carbon output while providing better access to fresher, higher-quality materials [21].
The trend toward local sourcing has grown in North America, delivering measurable benefits. As Maersk puts it:
"Local sourcing reduces the GHG emissions footprint of transportation and long-distance shipping, promoting the decarbonisation of your supply chain." [24]
Beyond lowering emissions, local sourcing boosts community development by creating jobs, supporting local economies, and improving quality control due to proximity to suppliers [21][22]. It also makes supply chains more reliable by minimizing disruption risks and enabling faster responses to issues [22]. Fashion brands can explore local sourcing by identifying suppliers closer to their main markets and building this into their marketing narratives [23][25]. While local suppliers might not always provide as much variety as global ones, the environmental and operational advantages often outweigh these challenges [22].
Longer Lead Times for Eco-Friendly Shipping
Extending lead times allows brands to use cleaner shipping modes, like ocean freight instead of air transport, which dramatically reduces emissions without compromising product quality. Freight transport is responsible for 30% of all fuel-related CO₂ emissions globally [1], underscoring the importance of choosing the right shipping method. Ocean freight, while slower, generates far fewer emissions per unit than air freight, making it a greener choice with proper planning.
Clear communication and advanced tracking systems can help brands manage customer expectations around slower shipping. Fashion companies can explain their commitment to sustainability and even offer incentives - like discounts - for choosing slower delivery options [1]. Modern tracking tools ensure accurate delivery estimates, keeping customers informed and satisfied. Additionally, route optimization can help streamline logistics, cutting transit times while keeping emissions low [1]. Consumer attitudes are increasingly aligned with these efforts, with 66% of shoppers prioritizing sustainability in their purchasing decisions [1].
Everlane serves as a great example of how long-term planning can work. Nikki Player, Everlane's Raw Materials Research and Development Manager, explains:
"We are really trying to make sure that we understand who we're buying from and what they place importance on to set a baseline, and then work together to set growth plans, both for us as a brand and then with the mills that we work with." [26]
When paired with route optimization, longer lead times can lower shipping costs by 20% or more while significantly reducing environmental impact [1].
DorsaLi’s approach to sustainability doesn’t stop at materials - it also extends to responsible shipping and logistics. By adopting these supply chain strategies, fashion brands can shrink their environmental impact while building stronger, more efficient operations.
Shipping Methods Comparison
After discussing clean shipping methods and eco-friendly packaging, let's dive into the numbers to see how these choices impact the environment. Understanding the environmental footprint of various shipping methods is crucial for fashion brands aiming to align with their sustainability goals. Some shipping options, shockingly, can produce up to 47 times more emissions than others.
Shipping Methods and Their Environmental Impact
The shipping method a brand chooses can make or break its environmental performance. While air freight is unbeatable for speed, its carbon footprint is enormous - something fashion brands can no longer overlook. Here's a breakdown of how different methods stack up in terms of emissions, cost, and practicality:
| Shipping Method | CO₂ Emissions (per metric ton per km) | Relative Cost | Transit Time | Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Ocean Freight | 10–40 grams | Lowest | 2–6 weeks | Bulk shipments, seasonal collections |
| Rail Transport | 20–80 grams | Low–Medium | 1–3 weeks | Continental shipping, heavy items |
| Road/Truck | 60–200 grams | Medium | 1–7 days | Regional distribution, flexible routing |
| Air Freight | 500 grams | Highest | 1–3 days | Emergency shipments only |
| Electric Last-Mile | 55% lower than diesel | Medium–High | Same day | Urban delivery, customer orders |
Ocean and rail freight shine as the most eco-conscious options. Ocean freight, for instance, emits up to 47 times less CO₂ per ton-mile compared to air freight, making it the go-to choice for sustainability-focused brands [27].
Air freight, while fast, releases pollutants directly into the upper atmosphere, intensifying its environmental harm compared to ground-level emissions [27]. On the other hand, rail transport offers a cleaner alternative to road shipping, combining lower emissions with reasonable transit times for cross-continental deliveries [28].
Electric vehicles are reshaping last-mile delivery. By slashing emissions by 55% compared to diesel vans, they allow brands to reduce their environmental footprint right at the customer's doorstep [30]. Leading companies like H&M are already embracing this shift, using electric trucks and two-wheelers for deliveries in cities like Paris [2].
From a cost perspective, the trends align with environmental impact. Ocean freight is not only the most eco-friendly but also the most affordable. Road freight, while less sustainable than rail or ocean shipping, still produces just a fraction of the emissions of air freight, making it a reasonable alternative when speed is a concern [29].
For fashion brands committed to sustainability, prioritizing ocean and rail shipping for most deliveries is a no-brainer. Air freight should be reserved strictly for emergencies. As regulations tighten and consumers demand greener practices, brands that adopt cleaner shipping methods now will be well-positioned for the future.
Conclusion: Steps Toward Cleaner Shipping
The fashion industry is grappling with significant logistics emissions, but adopting cleaner shipping practices can bring both environmental and business rewards. These steps build on the strategies and methods discussed earlier.
Key Takeaways for Fashion Brands
For fashion brands committed to sustainability, addressing shipping emissions is non-negotiable. The most effective approach combines three main strategies: transitioning to cleaner transportation, improving packaging, and rethinking supply chain structures. Together, these methods can deliver meaningful results.
Transportation offers the biggest opportunity for impact. Take Mammut, for instance - they successfully reduced upstream transportation emissions and earned an A+ rating for their efforts [3]. Industry leaders consistently emphasize that decarbonizing transportation is essential for long-term success [33].
The last-mile delivery phase is another critical area. Companies like Walmart and Kering have pledged to use zero-emission delivery providers by 2030 [3]. Similarly, DHL Express plans to deploy 80,000 electric vehicles for last-mile deliveries by the same year, aiming for 60% of their fleet to run on electric power [33].
Transparency also plays a vital role in building trust and driving progress. In 2025, only 9 out of 42 companies disclosed details about their transportation modes [3]. Brands that share clear, detailed emissions data - broken down by air, rail, land, and sea - can strengthen consumer trust and loyalty.
Sustainable logistics also make financial sense. According to McKinsey, businesses that adopt Green Supply Chain Management practices often see a positive impact on their bottom line [33]. Streamlined processes and reduced waste are just some of the added benefits [33].
Getting Consumer Support for Cleaner Shipping
Operational improvements are only part of the equation - engaging consumers is equally important. Educating customers about sustainable shipping options can drive adoption. Research shows that most consumers already support eco-friendly shipping, which increases their loyalty and willingness to invest in sustainable products [32][33][31].
The key is to make sustainability both easy to understand and actionable. For example, brands can explain how choosing standard shipping over expedited options significantly reduces emissions. Clear, accessible information helps consumers make informed choices.
Transparency in green shipping practices also strengthens customer relationships. When brands communicate their sustainability efforts effectively, they build trust and loyalty. Etsy provides a great example: in 2023, they committed to offsetting 100% of carbon emissions from shipping and packaging, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2030 [32]. Such measurable goals give consumers confidence in their purchasing decisions.
Presenting sustainability as an inspiring and straightforward choice can energize both employees and customers. By involving them in the conversation about environmentally friendly initiatives, brands can turn supporters into active participants in the journey toward cleaner shipping.
By combining operational improvements with consumer education, brands can achieve a clear edge. Not only do they reduce their environmental footprint, but they also strengthen customer loyalty and safeguard their reputation in an era of increasing scrutiny around sustainability.
At dorsaLi (https://dorsali.com), sustainability is at the heart of everything we do - from eco-conscious designs to responsible shipping practices. We believe that adopting greener shipping methods is a crucial step toward building a sustainable future for the fashion industry.
FAQs
How can fashion brands reduce their shipping emissions effectively?
Fashion brands have a real opportunity to cut down on shipping emissions by switching to low-emission transportation methods. For long-distance shipping, maritime transport is a smart option, while hybrid or electric vehicles can handle last-mile deliveries more efficiently. Another practical approach is consolidating shipments and fine-tuning logistics to avoid unnecessary trips and save on fuel.
Brands can also explore biofuel-powered shipping solutions and adopt eco-conscious packaging to shrink their carbon footprint even further. Taking these steps not only helps reduce environmental impact but also moves the industry closer to more sustainable shipping practices.
How do biofuels make ocean shipping more sustainable?
Switching to biofuels for ocean shipping offers a meaningful way to cut down on harmful emissions. Biofuels can reduce greenhouse gas emissions by over 70% compared to traditional fossil fuels. They’re also biodegradable and release fewer harmful pollutants, such as sulfur dioxide and particulate matter, which helps protect both air and water quality.
For fashion brands, adopting biofuels in their shipping practices means slashing their carbon footprint and embracing cleaner global logistics. It’s a step toward a greener future that aligns with environmentally conscious values.
What are the pros and cons of using reusable and returnable packaging in the fashion industry?
Switching to reusable and returnable packaging brings several important advantages for fashion brands. It cuts down on waste, reduces carbon emissions, and demonstrates a clear dedication to environmentally responsible practices. These efforts not only help the planet but can also boost brand image and strengthen customer loyalty, especially as more consumers look for eco-friendly options.
That said, there are some hurdles to keep in mind. Implementing these systems often demands a significant upfront investment and can create logistical challenges, such as handling the return process. Success also hinges on consumer participation and awareness, which can be tricky to achieve. Additionally, building the infrastructure to make reuse systems work can be a complex task. While these challenges are real, addressing them can pave the way for meaningful progress in sustainability and a greener future for the fashion industry.
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