Sweden's ICA Gruppen has announced that it is aiming to go carbon neutral across its operations by 2020.
In 2019, its key area of focus will be to reduce the company's carbon footprint by inspiring customers and suppliers to opt for sustainable and healthy choices.
'Strong Environmental Focus'
As Per Strömberg, CEO of ICA Gruppen, explained, the Mitt klimatmål ('My climate target') initiative is now a key part of the group's future plans and there is a strong environmental focus in newly built stores, as well as mutual work further down in the supply chain with its suppliers to reduce carbon footprint.
"The entire market for renewable fuels is undergoing change, and we – and many others – need to adapt. As part of this work, during the first half of 2019, we will present a long-term fuel strategy" he said
Sustainability Report
The group outlined its priorities for 2019 in its sustainability report for the fourth quarter of 2018.
Since 2006, the company's carbon emissions have decreased by 61%, the report said.
However, in 2018 this rate of decline slowed because of a record hot summer and an increase in transports and higher energy consumption.
Other Initiatives
The retail group has also introduced an award for 'Health Entrepreneur of the Year' to recognise companies that promote good public health.
The company has also signed up for the Swedish government’s '100-klubben' initiative to offer internships and jobs opportunities to beginners.
© 2019 European Supermarket Magazine – your source for the latest retail news. Article by Dayeeta Das. Click subscribe to sign up to ESM: European Supermarket Magazine.
