Search Climate Insights Directory

This research paper by Shamika N. Sirimanne of the International Institute for Sustainable Development examines the environmental footprint of the rapidly growing e-commerce sector. It identifies key drivers of environmental degradation—including warehousing, packaging, and high return rates—and proposes a multi-stakeholder agenda for action involving governments, the private sector, consumers, and international organizations to balance economic growth with sustainability.

This research paper by Shamika N. Sirimanne of UN Trade and Development explores the environmental footprint of the rapidly growing e-commerce sector. It analyzes how logistics, packaging, and consumer behavior contribute to carbon emissions and waste, and proposes a multi-stakeholder framework involving governments, the private sector, and international organizations to transition toward a sustainable digital economy.