How Does AIT Worldwide Logistics Cut Packaging Waste?

Online shopping returns are a significant challenge for retailers, with supply chain implications that extend far beyond simple logistics.

According to IMRG, 25% of all consumers send back between 5% and 15% of the items they buy online.

The scale of returns has created a capacity crisis for many retailers, who lack the infrastructure to handle this volume effectively.

This often results in products being discarded rather than being resold or recycled, creating both environmental and economic waste within the supply chain.

AIT Worldwide Logistics has kept more than 3,000 tonnes of waste out of landfills in 2025, thanks to its packaging recycling programme.

AIT's recycling solution has been used by multiple cloud and AI infrastructure providers, helping them progress towards their zero waste goals and reduce their environmental impact.

The global technology customers were looking for a way to manage the volume of packaging waste generated from data centre deliveries, such as wood pallets, cardboard, metal and mixed plastics.

AIT provides data tracking and regular reporting, giving companies real-time accountability which allows for continuous improvement across their operations.

This programme also aligns with AIT's sustainability goals, by prioritising reuse and recycling over landfill or incineration.

In the company's 2025 Sustainability Report, Vaughn Moore, Chairman and CEO at AIT Worldwide Logistics said: "We continue to make progress towards integrating sustainability into our operations while understanding its vital role in the company's long-term success in addition to the wellbeing of the communities we serve."

He added: "As a global logistics provider, we recognise our unique position to drive meaningful change across our supply chains.

"Over the last year, AIT made significant progress towards our sustainability goals by completing additional purchases of sustainable fuels, expanding our EV network and rolling out new industry partnerships."

Chelsea Lamar, AIT Worldwide Logistics’s VP, Global Sustainability, will be speaking at Sustainability LIVE: The US Summit, co-located with Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE in April 2026.

Secure your ticket now to join us in Chicago on 21-22 April 2026.

Supply chain sustainability leadership

Chelsea Lamar serves as Vice President of Global Sustainability at AIT Worldwide Logistics, where she spearheads the company's environmental initiatives across its supply chain operations.

She helps the company work towards its net zero emissions goals through collaborations with diverse customers and stakeholders.

Her work involves implementing logistics transportation solutions including electric semi-tractors, sustainable aviation and marine fuels, and route optimisation technologies.

Chelsea aims to take a collaborative, results-oriented approach across the supply chain to create meaningful environmental impact while bringing tangible business value.

She has a degree in Environmental Engineering from Iowa State University and has worked in climate, energy and sustainability for 15 years.

Chelsea says on LinkedIn: "At AIT, we believe collaboration across industries is essential to drive meaningful change.

"By partnering with global networks and sharing best practices, we aim to accelerate progress towards a more sustainable future for all."

Secure your tickets to hear from Chelsea at Sustainability LIVE: The US Summit in Chicago.

Decarbonising global supply chains

Chelsea will be speaking on the Global Decarbonisation Strategies panel at Sustainability LIVE: The US Summit, co-located with Procurement & Supply Chain LIVE.

The panel will explore pathways across energy, transport, manufacturing and finance, with a focus on scaling clean technologies, advancing regulation and enabling cross-sector collaboration.

Chelsea will share insights on how global alignment and decisive action can reduce emissions while supporting sustainable growth across supply chains.

The discussion could provide valuable perspectives for organisations looking to integrate sustainability into their supply chain operations.

Sustainability LIVE: The US Summit takes place in Chicago on 21 and 22 April 2026, offering in-depth discussions with leading sustainability experts. 

Secure your tickets now.