Kohl's Achieves Net Zero Emissions Goal

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May 26, 2011

Kohl's Department Stores achieved its ambitious goal of reaching and maintaining net zero greenhouse gas emissions from 2010 to 2012, according to its first annual corporate sustainability report.

This goal was met in 2010 through programs that range from energy management to an industry leading green power purchase initiative, according to a statement by the Menomonee Falls, Wis.-based company.

Kohl’s use of rail for more than 50 percent of inbound transportation, and its practice of ensuring that trucks carrying merchandise are full on trips both to and from distribution centers, executing more than 17,400 backhaul trips in 2010, also aided in reducing emissions. The retailers also encourages all carriers to be members of EPA's SmartWay Shipper program, which stresses fuel efficiency and carbon-reduction strategies.

Kohl's currently ranks first in retail and second overall on EPA's quarterly rankings of top green power purchasers with more than 1.4 billion kWh purchased in wind, solar, biomass and small hydro energy -- enough to green 100 percent of Kohl's purchased electricity use. Kohl's ranks 12th on EPA's quarterly rankings for on-site generation through its solar program, accounting for 15,689,000 kWh annually, the report stated.

"Kohl's associates and suppliers have long made sustainability -- particularly energy efficiency and waste reduction -- part of their business practices," said Ken Bonning, Kohl's executive vice president of store planning and logistics. Over the last several years, in the midst of the company's continued growth, we've worked to formalize these initiatives and set goals that will truly have a positive, long-term impact for our business and our communities. “

Kolh’s also earned the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's Energy Star label at 600 outlets, which represents more than 50 percent of the chain’s stores.

In waste reduction, Kohl's recycled 77 percent of all waste generated in 2010, including cardboard and paper, plastics, wood, construction materials and metal. The company also works with suppliers and associates to reduce the amount of packaging used and increase the units shipped per carton, removing millions of cartons from the supply chain, the company reported.

To date, Kohl's has more than 140 stores that are certified Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), including new buildings, existing buildings and tenant spaces.

Read These Related Articles:

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• Delhaize and Loblaw: The Quest for Greener Retail Operations
• Target Joins GreenChill, Reports In-Store Recycling Success
• Staples Outlines New Sustainability Strategy
• EPA Lauds Six Retailers for Energy Achievements

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