Target outlines sustainability goals

MINNEAPOLIS Target announced its commitment to sustainability and outlined goals it hopes to achieve over the next five years. Target's commitments to environmental sustainability, along with more on Target's sustainability efforts, are available at hereforgood.target.com/environment, the company reported.

"Target has long invested in the health and sustainability of our communities by integrating rigorous programs throughout our business that reduce our environmental impact," said Gregg Steinhafel, chairman, president and chief executive officer, Target. "We believe the commitments announced today will guide our ongoing efforts to further engage Target suppliers, team members and guests in our sustainability initiatives." 

Specifically, by 2016, Target said it aims to achieve the following milestones for resource use, waste elimination and carbon footprint reduction:

Reduce the percentage of operating waste sent to landfills by 15%; Reduce water usage by 10% per square foot; Reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 10% per square foot and 20% per dollar of retail sales; Earn the Energy Star label from the Environmental Protection Agency for at least 75% of its buildings; Improve the efficiency of general merchandise transportation inbound to distribution centers by 15% and outbound by 20% and support the adoption of cleaner and more fuel-efficient transportation practices.