Best Buy expands sustainabilty goals

After reducing its carbon emissions more than 50%, Best Buy is committing to achieve an even greater impact.

The consumer electronics retailer has set a goal to decrease its carbon emissions by 75% by 2030 (over a 2009 baseline). And, in a first, it has also set a goal to help consumers reduce their carbon emissions by 20% and save $5 billion on utility costs over the same period, while it works to decrease its own emissions 75% over the same period.

In its own operations, Best Buy will reduce carbon emissions through efficiencies from renewable energy sources, LED lighting  and a hybrid vehicle fleet, as well as investments in on-site solar panels, solar farms and renewable energy credits (RECs). Last year, the chain made several changes to its stores and distribution centers, including retrofitting parking lot and other outdoor lighting with energy-efficient fixtures and replacing many HVAC systems with more efficient equipment. It also installed overhead LEDs in more than 500 stores.

Automated technology in its distribution centers will further improve efficiency and reduce the amount of waste generated by shipping products to customers. New machines create custom boxes and shipping envelopes that fit the products being shipped, producing 40% less cardboard waste and eliminating plastic fillers.

Best Buy will help consumers reduce utility costs and carbon emissions through an increased focus on Energy Star products like smart thermostats, LED lighting and more. The new goals were announced by the chain at the Circularity19 conference in Minneapolis and are included in its latest Corporate Responsibility and Sustainability Report.

The retailer remains the nation’s largest collector of recyclable electronics and appliances. Since 2009, Best Buy has collected more than 2 billion pounds of electronics and appliances for recycling.