Kohl's receives inaugural green award

Menomonee Falls, Wis. Kohl’s Department Stores announced Friday that it received the inaugural Gold Edison Green Award at the annual Edison awards gala held Thursday in Manhattan.

The Edison Awards, associated with the Thomas Edison Papers at Rutgers University, symbolize the persistence and excellence personified by Thomas Alva Edison.

Kohl’s receipt of the Edison Green Award recognizes the retailer’s commitment to developing sustainable solutions and green business models.

“Kohl's is honored to be recognized by its peers for our ongoing efforts to improve our shared environment,” said Ken Bonning, Kohl’s executive VP store planning and logistics. “By engaging associates, partners and members of the community, Kohl's continues to operate our business with a commitment to environmental responsibility.”

Some of Kohl’s green initiatives include industry-leading energy management and green building programs such as LEED certification of more than 60 store locations to date; a commitment to reach net zero carbon dioxide emissions by the end of this year; and a No. 1 ranking among retailers on EPA’s quarterly rankings of top green power purchasers.