SUPERVALU’s Food Recovery Efforts Earn National Recognition
In an era where sustainability and corporate responsibility are increasingly important, SUPERVALU, Inc. has emerged. Especially as a leader in sustainable food management. Their exceptional commitment to food recovery has not gone unnoticed. More importantly, the company recently received the 2011 National Waste Wise Award Honorable Mention.
A Commitment to Waste Reduction
SUPERVALU, Inc., a major player in the grocery retail and pharmacy industry. For it operates well-known stores such as Albertsons, Shoppers, Jewel-Osco, and Shaw’s. In 2010, the company made a significant shift towards prioritizing waste reduction and recycling. This commitment was underscored by the creation of a new full-time position. A person also dedicated to implementing a more successful waste diversion program.
Impressive Results
The results of SUPERVALU’s efforts have been remarkable. In 2010 alone, through a partnership with Feeding America, the company:
- Donated over 30,000 tons of edible but unsellable food to food banks
- Diverted this food from landfills, saving more than $2.5 million in landfill costs
- Provided over 60 million pounds of food to feed hungry Americans
Jim Werntz, EPA Operations Director for Idaho, praised SUPERVALU’s efforts, stating, “SUPERVALU’s efforts towards sustainable food management not only benefit people and the earth, they are good for the company’s bottom line.”
A Holistic Approach to Sustainability
SUPERVALU’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond food recovery. The company has also been recognized by EPA’s GreenChill program for their efforts to reduce refrigerant leaks and emissions in their stores.
Pete Pearson, SUPERVALU’s Director of Sustainability and National Accounts, emphasized the company’s commitment to a “Triple Bottom Line” approach: “SUPERVALU and all its banners are focused on driving toward zero waste to get Triple Bottom Line results–Good for People, Planet and Profits.”
Looking Forward
SUPERVALU continues to push forward with ambitious waste reduction and sustainability goals. The company has recently joined EPA’s Food Recovery Challenge, collaborating to identify and share best practices across the grocery sector.
The Bigger Picture
SUPERVALU’s efforts are part of a larger movement addressing food waste and sustainability in the retail sector. As the EPA notes, surplus food is second only to paper in materials sent to landfills, and much of this “waste” is actually safe, wholesome food that could feed millions.
Other initiatives, such as the Food Recovery Challenge, are making significant impacts. For instance, participants in this challenge alone diverted 370,000 tons of wasted food from landfills.
However, challenges remain. A report by the World Wildlife Fund highlights how some US grocery retailers are inadvertently contributing to rainforest destruction through their supply chains, emphasizing the need for comprehensive sustainability strategies in the retail sector.
SUPERVALU’s success demonstrates that with commitment and innovation, retailers can make significant strides in sustainability, benefiting their bottom line, their communities, and the planet.
For more information on how to save money, support your community, and protect the environment, visit the EPA’s Food Recovery Challenge website: http://www.epa.gov/foodrecoverychallenge
