Sustainability is no longer just a trend but has become a fundamental pillar of international trade. We talked about it in this blog when we started to sketch the international trade trends for 2024. As the years go by, this reality is unstoppable and companies know it: if they want to remain relevant, their reputation and competitiveness are closely linked to their commitment to the environment.
According to McKinsey & Company, up to 90% of a company’s environmental impact is concentrated in its supply chain. But far from being a problem, this represents an opportunity: adopting sustainable practices can reduce operating costs by 16% and improve profitability by up to 47%.
Moving towards more responsible importing is not just an ethical decision: it’s a smart move. Because a sustainable supply chain not only protects the planet, it also optimises resources, improves brand perception and connects with a consumer who increasingly demands consistency and commitment (especially when it comes to selling exclusive products).
Why is it crucial to talk about sustainability in importing?
International trade, by its very nature, has a direct impact on the environment. From the transport of goods, which generates a significant share of greenhouse gas emissions, to the consumption of resources in production, the ecological footprint is considerable.
However, these challenges also open the door to great opportunities. Companies that lead the transition to responsible practices not only differentiate themselves from the competition, but also reap tangible benefits:
- Improved reputation: A brand that is committed to the environment builds trust and loyalty.
- Reduced costs: Optimising resources, such as more efficient packaging, translates into significant savings on your imports.
- Attracting talent and investment: Professionals and investors increasingly prefer to be linked to companies with sustainable values.
Strategies for a greener supply chain
Reducing the carbon footprint of your imports is more feasible than it seems, even when production takes place as far away as China or other Asian countries. It is a matter of implementing a series of strategic actions that, combined, make a big difference.
Optimising packaging: less is more
We have talked a lot about packaging in this blog. Not only because of its impact on the brand, but also because of the many materials that can be used to create unique packaging for our imported products.
But it’s not just about finding alternative materials to plastic: using the right volume and weight for each product is more environmentally friendly and also more economical. This can be achieved through techniques such as customised packaging and product consolidation to avoid unnecessary boxes. In addition, opting for recycled or biodegradable materials sends a powerful message to your customers.
Grouping shipments: efficiency and ecology go hand in hand
Consolidating multiple orders into a single shipment is a key tactic; in fact, many companies even choose to import as a group for economic reasons, but it also means less environmental impact. By reducing the frequency of transport, it drastically reduces the CO₂ emissions associated with logistics. This practice not only benefits the planet, but also optimises transport costs and improves operational efficiency.
And, as transport is important when it comes to caring for the environment, we cannot forget to mention reverse logistics either. In fact, this practice of optimising returns promotes the circular economy while contributing to waste reduction.
The choice of suppliers: the cornerstone of your sustainable strategy
The sustainability of the supply chain is clearly conditioned by the business partners you choose. Therefore, the selection of suppliers is perhaps the most important step. It is essential to evaluate manufacturers based on clear criteria that go beyond price:
- Environmental certifications: Seals such as ISO 14001 or FSC guarantee that the (good) supplier follows recognised standards.
- Regulatory compliance: Ensuring that they comply with local and international environmental legislation is crucial to avoid risks.
- Transparency and commitment: A sustainable supplier must be transparent about their processes and demonstrate a real commitment to continuous improvement.
Focus on your sustainable strategy; we take care of the import
As we have seen, building a responsible supply chain is a strategic process that requires analysis, verification and in-depth knowledge of the production market. Selecting the right suppliers is at the heart of it all, but it is a time-consuming and resource-intensive task.
Precisely because your company needs to focus on communicating its commitment and offering valuable products, we, as your sourcing partner, take care of the entire import process. We identify and evaluate suppliers that not only meet your quality standards, but also rigorous sustainability criteria. We negotiate the best conditions, implement controls at every stage and help you manage optimised logistics so that your products arrive efficiently and responsibly.
So you can focus on growing your business and communicating your value proposition, safe in the knowledge that your supply chain is in expert hands and aligned with a greener future.