When we hear the word “Wal-mart”, dozens of characteristics may come to mind when thinking about one of the world’s largest corporations. Maybe it’s the plethora of products offered at incredibly low prices, or the bouncing smiley face in their advertisements. We may even think of those uncoordinated, horrifying outfits posted on the internet phenomenon, People of Wal-mart. Yet how often do consumers think of Wal-Mart as a sustainable department store? Surprisingly, Wal-Mart is working closely with the EDF (Environmental Defense Fund) to reduce it’s carbon footprint in our environment.
Since Wal-Mart sells an overwhelming quantity of cheap goods of everything from printer paper to packs of socks, environmentalists are worried about the increased consumption of energy and resources. According to Industry Market Trends, Wal-Mart is estimated to be the largest private energy consumer and cotton buyer in the United States. However, Wal-Mart announced in February 2010 that they will make conscious efforts to reduce green house emissions by 20 million metric tons. By selecting products with high life cycles of carbon emissions, Wal-Mart hopes to address the problem of climate change as well as increase personal profitability and popularity. For specific examples of environmental changes, check this website.
Corporate behavior can have a large impact on how the population views environmental problems. By changing their policy to address important issues, not only do these companies inform the community by taking action, but they also add credibility to their brand image. Wal-Mart is also starting to sell environmentally-friendly products such as fair trade coffee, organic cotton clothing, and compact fluorescent light bulbs. These goods can also promote Wal-Mart consumers to shop smart in order to take action as individuals.
Although Wal-Mart may have the right mindset to protect our environment, they may be encountering obstacles that could discourage hopefuls. In May 2010, Wal-Mart agreed to pay $27.6 million dollars ending a five year settlement for disposing of hazardous waste such as pesticides, chemicals and acid in California. Although Wal-Mart can easily afford the settlement, our planet is unfortunately stuck paying the price.
Despite this setback, it is still worth mentioning the environmental progress Wal-Mart strives to accomplish. Whether it be wind and sun energy to power the stores, or the fresh organic produce, we can still applaud the efforts of this large corporation.
For more information on how Wal-Mart is making an impact, check out their sustainability website.
-Tara Slosberg
