Becoming a B Corporation: 30Acres' Journey and What We've Learned

At 30Acres, we believe that business can be a force for good. As an Australian e-commerce agency, we’re proud to share that we’ve submitted our application to become B Corporation certified. This milestone marks a significant step in our journey to align profit with purpose, and as we eagerly wait for our application to be reviewed, we’d like to reflect on the process and share tips for making your business more environmentally friendly.

The 30Acres Journey to B Corp Certification

For us, the path to B Corp certification has been more than just a checklist or a way to measure sustainability—it’s been a transformative experience. The process challenged us to take a deeper look at how we operate as a business, both internally and externally, and brought clarity to the values we stand for. Here’s what we’ve gained along the way:

1. A Clearer Purpose

The B Impact Assessment (BIA) gave us the opportunity to evaluate every part of our business—from how we support our team to the impact we have on the planet. This process didn’t just highlight where we could improve; it also reinforced the areas where we’re already making a difference, giving us a clearer sense of purpose and direction.

2. Stronger Connections Within Our Team

Going through the assessment wasn’t just about policies and metrics—it was a chance to engage our entire team. Brainstorming new ideas, participating in initiatives like river cleanups, and refining processes together has deepened our sense of collaboration and shared purpose. It’s shown us that sustainability and inclusivity are truly team efforts.

3. Aligning Our Business with Our Values

This journey helped us articulate our values not just to ourselves but to the world. From committing to carbon neutrality to offering paid volunteer days, we’ve made intentional changes that reflect who we are as a company. These initiatives have strengthened our culture and allowed us to connect with like-minded clients who share our vision.

4. Elevating Our Impact

Whether it’s transitioning to a fully remote team to cut emissions or implementing diversity and equity training, the journey to B Corp certification has sharpened our focus on creating positive change. It’s encouraged us to go further, setting bold goals like reducing greenhouse gas emissions by 5% annually and formalising donations through programs like 1% for the Planet.

5. A Unified Message

The process has also refined how we communicate our impact and values, both internally and externally. It’s given us the language to show our clients, team, and community what we stand for and why it matters. From onboarding new employees with a strong Code of Ethics to sharing our sustainability journey with the world, we’re proud of the story we’re telling.

Why Becoming a B Corp?

At 30Acres, we believe eCommerce can be a force for good. As an agency working in an industry that significantly impacts the planet, we see it as our responsibility to help brands reduce their environmental footprint while achieving their goals. Becoming a B Corp is our way of formalising that commitment and holding ourselves accountable to making a positive difference.

For us, sustainability isn’t just a buzzword—it’s a focus that shapes how we work, the clients we partner with, and the solutions we offer. Whether it’s helping brands adopt more eco-friendly practices, improving operational efficiency, or encouraging mindful consumerism, we’re driven by the idea that every step forward matters.

As Paul Fisher, the owner of 30Acres, puts it:

"Something didn’t sit right with us. We were a good company—doing great work and taking care of our people and the planet as best we could. But the elephant in the room was the e-commerce industry itself—an industry driven by ever-increasing consumption, often tainted by shady practices, unethical supply chains, and unfair labour conditions. Could we truly be a force for good?

We realised we couldn’t preach to others without first proving we were living up to our own standards. Pursuing B Corp certification became our way to be held accountable while adopting a clear operational framework for ethical business and strong governance."

For us, it’s not just about what we do as an agency—it’s about how we can inspire and support others to do the same. Becoming a B Corp is a way to formalise that mission and join a global community of businesses working together for a better future.

Tips to Make Your Business More Environmentally Friendly

Whether or not you’re pursuing B Corp certification, here are some actionable steps to make your business more sustainable—for now, and we’ll dive into more detail in an upcoming blog post.

1. Measure Your Impact: Use tools like for example the B Impact Assessment or Trace, a platform for tracking and reducing emissions, to understand where your business stands. Measurement is the first step toward meaningful change.
2. Prioritise Energy Efficiency:
• Switch to renewable energy providers.
• Implement energy-efficient technologies, such as LED lighting and smart thermostats.
3. Offer Flexible Work Options: Remote or hybrid models not only reduce commuting emissions but can also boost employee satisfaction and productivity.
4. Rethink Packaging: If you’re in e-commerce, explore sustainable packaging alternatives like biodegradable mailers or minimal packaging designs.
5. Support Local & Ethical Suppliers: Partner with vendors and suppliers who prioritise environmental and social responsibility. This amplifies your impact through your supply chain.
6. Engage Your Team: Encourage employees to suggest and implement green initiatives. Sustainability works best when it’s a team effort.
7. Educate & Advocate: Share your journey, challenges, and successes with your audience. Transparency inspires others to follow suit.

Read more about how to embrace responsible retail, created by our friends over at Shopify.  

Looking Ahead

As we wait for our B Corp certification review, we’re reminded that sustainability isn’t a destination; it’s a journey. Every step we take is an opportunity to do better for our planet, our people, and our community. Every step has been a reminder that running a business isn’t just about the bottom line; it’s about the impact we leave behind.

For 30Acres, the journey to B Corp certification has already enriched our culture and sharpened our mission. We hope our experience inspires you to consider how your business can be a force for good.

Have questions about our process or tips for your own sustainability efforts? Let us know in the comments or reach out—we’re always keen to share and learn!