Office supplies chain recognized for sustainability commitment

Knowing business is not just about sales, Staples leads the charge when it comes to responsible business practices.



The chain’s positive impact on society — and the planet, as a whole — has earned Staples a place on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index for the thirteenth year in a row. The global benchmark weighs corporate responsibility and sustainability performance among the largest 2,500 companies listed on the Dow Jones Global Total Stock Market Index.



Staples’ selection to the report “is a testament to the chain’s commitment to sustainability," said Mark Buckley, VP of environmental affairs, Staples.



And the company’s social responsibility is far-reaching. For example, 13,000-plus products sold globally are designed with environmental attributes. This merchandise represented more than $5.2 billion in sales in 2015, and accounted for approximately 30% of global product sales, according to a company statement.



Last year, Staples ended the year with 527 active buildings certified to the Energy Star standard, or 38% of its total U.S. operations. Staples has been an Energy Star Partner of the Year for seven consecutive years. Meanwhile, this year, Staples earned the Save Energy’s Stars of Energy Efficiency Built Environment award for its commitment to energy reduction and efficiency in its stores.



These are only a few examples of how "We not only operate our business in a responsible manner, but we help our customers make a positive impact on the planet by offering them more sustainable products and services,” Buckley added.