Kroger gets EPA's green badge of honor

Kroger has gotten the ultimate green seal of approval from the EPA.

The federal government has announced that Kroger is the only grocery retailer to be granted elite Energy Star Certification status by the EPA.

"Kroger is committed to reducing our impact on the environment, and our Energy Star certified buildings have delivered energy and cost savings as well as reduce our carbon footprint," said Keith Oliver, Kroger's VP for facility engineering. "We are pleased to help our partners at the EPA celebrate 15 years of Energy Star certifications."

Elite status is conferred to organizations with at least 150 Energy Star rated buildings. Kroger has earned 649 Energy Star certifications.

The company said it employs various practices to increase energy efficiency, including LED lights, skylights and control systems, as well as engaging store associates in energy savings initiatives. Kroger has reduced its average grocery store electricity usage by 35% since the year 2000, the company reported.

Kroger employs more than 375,000 associates who serve customers in 2,631 supermarkets and multi-department stores in 34 states and the District of Columbia.