ALDI receives Industry Leader Award from EPA

Batavia, Ill.-based ALDI is among 13 grocers receiving a 2018 Store Certification Excellence award from the Environmental Protection Agency's GreenChill Partnership for its leadership in environmental reformation.

Over the past decade, participation in EPA’s GreenChill Program, which encourages reductions in refrigerant leaks that can have costly impacts for supermarkets, has risen from 4,500 stores to more than 11,000 stores nationwide, representing about 29% of the U.S. supermarket industry. GreenChill Partners emit at least 65% less refrigerant than the average supermarket, according to the agency, which added that if all supermarkets across the country reduced the amount of refrigerant they leak to the GreenChill Partner average, they could avoid $156 million annually in refrigerant-replacement costs. 

"Over the last year, ALDI has transitioned to natural refrigerants (CO2) in hundreds of stores as part of our journey toward environmentally sustainable refrigeration systems," said Aaron Sumida, vice president, ALDI. "This recognition from the GreenChill partnership is an important celebration of our journey as we continue to make strides in reducing our carbon emissions and finding innovative renewable solutions."

ALDI is increasing its eco-friendly elements as part of its capital investment of more than $5 billion in new and remodeled stores. These stores feature environmentally friendly building supplies, such as recycled materials, energy-saving LED lighting and energy efficient refrigerated systems and HVAC units.

Other grocers honored by the Environmental protection agency include Hy-Vee (Distinguished Partner certificate), Weis Markets (Store re-certification) and Target (Best of the Best certificate).