MAKING SUSTAINABILITY SUSTAINABLE: How Gnarlywood Tackles Waste in a Packaging-DEPENDant Industry

In e-commerce and logistics, packaging is both a necessity and a problem. Every product shipped requires materials—boxes, tape, dunnage, labels—and for many businesses, that translates into massive amounts of single-use waste. It’s the cost of doing business. But at Gnarlywood, we believe it doesn’t have to be that way.

The Packaging Paradox

The rise of online shopping has led to an explosion in packaging waste. It’s not just the volume—it’s the speed. Fulfillment centers process thousands of packages daily, and the pace often outweighs any consideration for reuse or recycling.

Yet businesses and consumers alike are becoming more environmentally conscious. Sustainability is no longer a buzzword—it’s a brand value. So how do you reconcile the fast-moving nature of e-commerce logistics with a need for environmental responsibility?

Our Commitment: Over 100 Tons of Cardboard Recycled Annually

At Gnarlywood, we’ve made sustainability a part of our operational DNA.

Every year, we recycle over 100 tons of cardboard from our fulfillment operations. That’s not just a feel-good statistic—it’s a real, measurable impact that reflects our belief that third-party logistics can (and should) be part of the solution, not just the problem.

And as surfers, this mission hits close to home. The ocean is where we reset and reconnect—it’s a huge part of who we are. The last thing we want is more trash washing up on our beaches because of avoidable waste in our own industry.

Beyond the Box: Practical Sustainability in 3PL

Our approach to eco-conscious logistics goes beyond recycling:

  • Right-sizing packaging to reduce material waste and shipping volume.

  • Exploring sustainable packaging options with clients when feasible.

  • Keeping our operations lean and efficient to minimize energy use.

We know we’re operating in an industry that depends on packaging—but that doesn’t mean we can’t be responsible stewards of our resources.

Why It Matters to Our Clients

Our clients are entrepreneurs and brands that care about more than just profits. They’re people who want to grow responsibly—who care about the impact they leave behind.

Partnering with Gnarlywood means more than outsourcing fulfillment. It means aligning with a logistics provider who shares your values and puts them into practice.

Final Thoughts

Sustainability in logistics isn’t easy—but it’s necessary. At Gnarlywood, we’re not perfect, but we’re committed. By recycling over 100 tons of cardboard each year and continuously exploring better practices, we’re proving that even in a packaging-heavy industry, greener choices are possible.

Want to work with a fulfillment partner who takes sustainability seriously? Contact us today to learn how we can support your business—and the planet—together.

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