This Earth Month, various retailers are increasing efforts to do their part to protect the environment, both in their own businesses and through collaborations with other companies. Following are some efforts from national grocers:
Albertsons, Kellogg Raise Awareness for In-Store Recycling
The companies are calling attention to in-store recycling bins at participating Albertsons banner stores. These bins are used for certain plastic bags, wraps, and films that cannot be recycled at home.
"Albertsons Companies understands our consumers' concerns about plastic and packaging waste, which is why we developed Recipe for Change," said Suzanne Long, chief sustainability and transformation officer, in a statement. "Recipe for Change is our commitment to make a real difference in the communities we serve and the planet we share. Educating customers on how to recycle plastic packaging helps us to accelerate our transition to a more circular economy."
Meijer Increases Donation to Great Lakes
Meijer strengthened its commitment to the Great Lakes by expanding its partnership with the Council of the Great Lakes Region to clean up Midwest beaches and waterways. In addition to developing two cleanup robots used to collect waste on the beach and in the water, the company has donated over $1.5 million to the charitable arm of the Council since 2022.
"It's a privilege to live near the Great Lakes, and it's one we don't take for granted, which is why we're continuing to take steps to protect them," said Erik Petrovskis, director of environmental compliance and sustainability at Meijer, in a statement. "Meijer was the first retailer to support the innovative technology in the Great Lakes last year, and thanks to our ongoing relationship with the Council of the Great Lakes Region and local NGO partners, we're able to expand our hands-on efforts to ensure their viability for generations to come."
Loblaw Rolls Out Electric Transport Truck
Loblaw recently announced the rollout of its first fully electric truck, a Freightliner eCascadia from Daimler Truck North America. Four more are expected to join the fleet in the coming months. The truck will make runs between the company’s distribution center in Boucherville, Quebec, and stores around Montreal.
This decision will help the company attain its goal to decarbonize its fleet by 2030.
"It's no secret that vehicle decarbonization is central to lowering greenhouse gas emissions, and we want to lead in the adoption of this new technology," said Brian Springer, VP of national transport operations at Loblaw, in a statement. "For nearly two years, we've piloted different vehicles across various parts of our business, and we're excited to roll out a solution that works."
Sprouts, Ancient Nutrition Partner on Regenerative Farming
Sprouts Farmers Market and Ancient Nutrition, a food supplement and healthy lifestyle company, have partnered on the brand's R.A.N.C.H. Project. This mission seeks to rebuild topsoil, increase carbon capture, and grow food in the most sustainable way possible.
The companies will meet the goal by employing regenerative agriculture practices to maintain soil health and contribute to a circular economy.
"We’re excited to partner with Ancient Nutrition as we recognize the possibilities of regenerative organic farming and the variety of sustainable benefits it will bring to our planet,” said Nick Konat, president and chief operating officer of Sprouts, in a statement. “Together, we can further the movement in regenerative agriculture, working diligently to create a lasting impact on our future, both environmentally and economically.”
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