Celebrate Earth Day - April 22, 2012

On April 22, people around the globe will celebrate Earth Day 2012. This year’s theme is to “Mobilize the Earth” by uniting people and world leaders to put the planet on the path to sustainability. ShopRite’s commitment to the environment spans more than three decades and Earth Day is a perfect time to share some of the ways we’re “Greening the Aisles” in our stores.

Energy reduction is one of our core commitments. Many stores have converted to energy efficient T-8 fluorescent lighting while others have made the switch to LED lighting.We’re also working to conserve energy by installing doors in the Dairy and Frozen Departments or night shades on refrigerated cases. Some stores have even gone solar!

Through a partnership with the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, we’re taking steps to reduce refrigerant emissions. The ShopRite of Hatfield, PA recently received the U.S. EPA GreenChill Award for an innovative refrigeration system that requires less maintenance and is virtually leak-proof, thereby minimizing its impact on the ozone layer.

According to the U.S. EPA, food waste accounts for 14% of all municipal solid waste collected. ShopRite is tackling the issue of food waste through on-site and regional composting programs and by diverting food waste to local farms for livestock feed.We also partner with local food banks to donate as much unsaleable food as possible through ShopRite Partners in Caring, our community-based, hunger fighting program.

These are just a few of the ways we’re innovating to reduce waste, conserve energy and make a commitment to a sustainable future. To learn more, click here to view ShopRite’s Earth News 2012.

Posted 4/18/12