Sustainability
At Online Distribution, sustainability is more than a responsibility – it’s a commitment to building a better future for our people, clients, and communities. We believe that by embedding sustainability into our operations, we can drive long-term success while improving outcomes for our people & community, our environment and our business.
“Online Distribution has set a remarkable standard in the logistics industry with its genuine commitment to sustainability. Their focus on reducing environmental impact is evident in every aspect of their operations, from optimising supply chain efficiencies to minimising waste. What truly sets them apart is their proactive approach — investing in sustainable packaging solutions, reducing carbon emissions, and supporting local community initiatives. It’s refreshing to see a company that not only talks about sustainability but actively integrates it into their business model”
Allan Birch, Director, Tadpole ESG Consulting
Download our FY25 Sustainability Update Here
Our Sustainability Framework
Our approach to sustainability is guided by a structured framework that ensures our initiatives are measurable, impactful, and aligned with our values. This framework is built around three key pillars:
- Our People & Community – Prioritising employee well-being, engagement, diversity, and community involvement.
- Our Planet – Reducing our carbon footprint, improving supply chain sustainability, and minimising waste.
- Our Business – Enhancing operational efficiency, improving client & customer experiences, and maintaining ethical business practices.
Each pillar consists of specific goals that we actively track and work towards achieving.
Our Progress and Achievements
We are proud of the progress we have made, with several key milestones already achieved:
- Carbon Emissions Reduction: Achieved a 40% reduction in Scope 1 & 2 GHG emissions since FY20.
- Sustainable Packaging: 96.48% of our packaging is now recycled, recyclable, reusable, or compostable.
- Client Satisfaction: Maintained an NPS score above 50, with the latest at 68.9.
- Employee Training & Well-being: Employees complete an average of 13.38 hours of training annually, and our wellness score exceeds 72.
- Community Commitment: Over $55,000 donated to charities and local initiatives.
For a full breakdown of our sustainability progress, refer to our latest Sustainability Report
Ongoing & Future Initiatives
We continue to push forward with new sustainability initiatives, including:
- Reducing Waste to Landfill: Targeting a 75% reduction by FY26.
- Enhancing Freight Efficiency: Expanding our freight aggregation model to reduce carbon-intensive airfreight.
- Supplier Responsibility: Implementing a Supplier Code of Conduct to ensure ethical sourcing and sustainability.
- Employee Engagement: Strengthening our internal sustainability culture with ongoing training and participation.
Our Community Engagement
Big Brothers Big Sisters
Big Brothers Big Sisters is a mentorship program that connects young people with caring adult role models to provide guidance, support, and encouragement. Through one-on-one mentoring relationships, the organisation helps children build confidence, develop life skills, and achieve their full potential.
As a Defender of Potential, Online Distribution has proudly supported the Christchurch chapter of Big Brothers Big Sisters since 2009. Our commitment includes providing a professional yet welcoming space where mentors and “Mentees” can connect, build relationships, and embark on their journeys of support.
For more information about this great casue or to get involved, visit www.bigbrothersbigsisters.org.nz
General Manager of Commercial Guy Evans with Faye Higgins – Programme Manager BBBS
The Mental Health Foundation
The Mental Health Foundation of New Zealand promotes well-being by providing resources, advocacy, and support to help individuals and communities foster positive mental health and resilience
As an official supporter, Online Distribution and its employees contribute vital funding through the various campaigns run by the Mental Health Foundation, helping to promote mental well-being across New Zealand.
Our Christchurch Office team getting into Pink Shirt Day (2025)
The Morgans Valley Bird and Bush Regeneration Project
With support from Online Distribution and dedicated community volunteers, a group of local residents began planting the red zone rockfall area in Morgans Valley, Canterbury, in 2020. Thousands of native plants have since taken root, revitalising the landscape and attracting local birdlife. This ongoing project is transforming the area on the east side of Heathcote Valley into a thriving environmental asset for the region, fostering biodiversity and sustainability for years to come.
“The first planting day was fantastic. We could not have asked for better weather and we had a group of about 20-25 volunteers and overall we got the 350 plants all in the ground. We could not have done this without the support of Online Distribution and their kind sponsorship of this project.”
General Managers of Commercial (Guy Evans) & Business Development (Sam Stokes) planting in Morgan’s Valley (2025)
Lincoln University
Online Distribution and Lincoln University have enjoyed a strong relationship for nearly two decades. We’re proud to partner with Lincoln University to deliver guest lectures, review course material, offer industry insights, and support clear pathways to employment for Lincoln University graduates.
General Manager of Commercial (Guy Evans) & Project Manager (Johnathon Hardegger) reviewing academic material at Lincoln University (2024)
180 Degree Trust
180 Degrees Trust is a charity that supports at-risk youth by providing mentoring, education, and outdoor programs to help them build confidence, resilience, and life skills. Their goal is to empower young people to overcome challenges and create positive futures.
Online Distribution is proud to support 180 Degrees Trust in their mission to empower at-risk youth, contributing to their vital programs that help young people build resilience and create brighter futures. You can learn more by visiting https://180degrees.org.nz
University of Canterbury
We’ve developed a strong relationship with the University of Canterbury – giving guest lectures and hosting interns through their PACE internship programme.
At Online Distribution, we’re passionate about logistics and committed to nurturing the next generation of supply chain professionals. It’s one of the ways we can contribute to the long-term success of our business and the wider New Zealand economy.
General Manager of Commercial Guy Evans giving a speech at the University of Canterbury (2024)
Building Better Futures Together
We invite our clients, suppliers, and the community to join us in our journey towards a more sustainable future.
For inquiries or collaboration opportunities, please get in touch.