Kroger aims for zero waste

Kroger is committing to moving its stores toward the EPA zero waste threshold of 90%, according to its seventh annual sustainability report.

Currently Kroger diverts 58% of its waste from stores and will increase that figure to 65% by the end of this year and 70% by the end of 2015. The retailer also is committing to sourcing 100% certified sustainable palm oil by the end of 2015.

Other highlights of the report include Kroger’s reduction of its carbon footprint by 4.8%, reducing overall energy consumption in stores by 32.7%, increasing its fleet efficiency by 33.1% since 2008 and staying on track to meet a goal of 40% improved fleet efficiency by 40% by 2014, donating the equivalent of 200 million meals to 80 local food banks in 2012, and providing $49 million to more than 30,000 schools and charitable organizations participating in its Community Rewards program.

"For 130 years, Kroger has aimed to serve each individual customer, every day, and to be good stewards of our communities and the environment," said David Dillon, Kroger's chairman and CEO. "Our sustainability progress today is part of this proud heritage, thanks to more than 343,000 associates who are helping make each community we serve a better place to live."