As climate concerns and environmental awareness continue to grow, sustainability has become a major focus for consumers, investors, and businesses alike. Companies are increasingly expected not only to deliver convenience and innovation, but also to take responsibility for their environmental and social impact. While many businesses have only recently begun prioritizing sustainability, industry leaders such as Amazon and Apple provide insight into how large corporations are responding to these rising expectations, as well as how much room for improvement still exists.
Amazon has become one of the most dominant companies in the world, largely due to its fast delivery speeds and massive selection of products. These competitive advantages have reshaped consumer expectations and changed the way people shop online. As an Amazon Prime member, Amazon is often my first choice when purchasing items quickly or conveniently. This reliability is reflected by how deeply Amazon’s services are embedded in everyday consumer behavior.
Fast delivery remains one of Amazon’s most recognizable strengths. Same-day, one-day and two-day shipping, particularly for Prime members, has set a new standard across the retail industry. This system is largely sustainable due to Amazon’s extensive investments in its logistics network, including fulfillment centers, aircraft, and last-mile delivery partners. In recent years, Amazon has begun incorporating sustainability into its delivery systems by offering low-carbon delivery options and digital rewards for choosing slower, more environmentally friendly shipping methods. These initiatives aim to reduce emissions while maintaining customer convenience.
Amazon is also known for its vast range of products. Through its marketplace model, millions of third-party sellers can list products alongside Amazon’s own offerings, giving consumers access to nearly any item in one place. However, operating at this scale presents environmental and social challenges. Amazon has acknowledged these concerns through initiatives such as “The Climate Pledge,” a commitment to reach net-zero carbon emissions by 2040. The company’s sustainability strategy focuses on five areas: Climate solutions, waste and packaging, natural resources, human rights, and products and services, according to the Amazon website. Efforts such as shipping in manufacturer’s packaging to reduce waste and investing in renewable energy represent progress, though critics argue that the company could take further action given its size and influence.
Apple, another global leader, faces similar expectations. As one of the most valuable companies in the world, Apple holds significant influence over supply chains and consumer behavior. Its sustainability initiative, “Apple 2030,” aims to make the company carbon neutral across its entire global footprint. Apple reports it has reduced emissions by more than 60% compared to its 2015 baseline by increasing renewable energy use, incorporating recycled materials, and adopting lower-carbon transportation, according to its website. Apple’s sustainability strategy spans five key areas: Design and sourcing, manufacturing, packaging and shipping, product use, and recovery. Because Apple maintains tight control over its product ecosystem and supply chain, it has the ability to implement sustainability standards more quickly than many competitors. However, challenges remain. Frequent product updates and limited repairability raise concerns about long-term environmental impact. Expanding right-to-repair options, increasing refurbishment programs, and encouraging longer product use could further reduce waste.
As sustainability becomes more prominent in corporate messaging, it can be difficult for consumers to determine whether companies are genuinely adjusting their business values or engaging in greenwashing. Despite this uncertainty, progress from major corporations can have a broader impact. As companies like Amazon and Apple take steps toward more sustainable practices, there is hope that other businesses will follow their lead. With growing public pressure and increased awareness, sustainability is shifting from a marketing tool to a competitive and ethical necessity.