While such retailers as Kohl’s, Walmart and Office Depot were receiving accolades for their sustainability efforts the past few years, Target was seldom mentioned in the same breath. Target wasn’t exactly destroying the planet, but it was far less vocal and precise than others about its efforts in the area of sustainability. Not any more. The company last week established some clear goals regarding resource usage, waste elimination and carbon footprint reduction and a time frame in which to achieve them.
“Target has long invested in the health and sustainability of our communities by integrating rigorous programs throughout our business that reduce our environmental impact,” said Gregg Steinhafel, Target’s chairman, president and CEO. “We believe the commitments announced today will guide our ongoing efforts to further engage Target suppliers, team members and guests in our sustainability initiatives.”
By 2016, Target said it plans to reduce waste sent to landfills by 15%, reduce water usage and greenhouse gas emissions by 10% per sq. ft. and earn the Energy Star label from the Environmental Protection Agency for at least 75% of its buildings. In addition, the company plans to improve the efficiency of general merchandise logistics by 15% to 20% through the use of cleaner and more fuel-efficient transportation practices.
Target said it has incorporated environmental sustainability into its business strategy for more than three decades, installing rooftop solar systems, converting to energy-efficient light fixtures and adopting other initiatives that have earned it Energy Star certification at more than 100 stores. Additional information on the company’s efforts is available at hereforgood.target.com/environment.