Kroger gears up for Earth Day

CINCINNATI In honor of Earth Day, Kroger introduced a number of new programs and products to help customers make environmentally conscious choices.

"Kroger's approach to sustainability is to partner with our customers and our associates to provide choices so that they can impact their local and global environment in a meaningful way," said Lynn Marmer, group vp of corporate affairs. "We continue to expand our green living and sustainable offerings as our customers and associates look for more ways to do their part when it comes to the environment."

Through Kroger's Plastic Recycling Program, plastic bags, dry-cleaning bags, and other plastic shrink wrap can now be recycled in all of the company's family of stores - including Kroger, Baker's, City Market, Dillons, Food 4 Less, Foods Co., Fred Meyer, Fry's, Gerbes, Hilander, Jay C, King Soopers, Owen's, Pay Less, Ralphs, Scott's, Smith's and QFC stores.

The company has also launched its first-ever online contest, Design Kroger's Next Reusable Bag, which allows customers to submit designs for Kroger's reusable grocery bags. Customers can create their designs and vote on their favorite entries online at http://www.kroger.com/green through May 23. The winner of the contest will receive a $500 Kroger gift card. Four finalists will be awarded a $250 Kroger gift card and five runners-up will receive a $100 Kroger gift card.