In a significant environmental initiative, Kroger, one of the largest grocery chains in the United States, has announced plans to completely phase out single-use plastic bags by the year 2025. This decision is part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing sustainability and environmental stewardship, which has been evolving over the past decade.
Kroger operates over 2,700 stores across 35 states, including well-known brands such as Ralphs, Harris Teeter, and Food 4 Less. The initiative will kick off with the Seattle-based QFC supermarket chain and will gradually extend to all Kroger-owned stores nationwide. “In alignment with our Zero Hunger/Zero Waste commitment, we are transitioning away from disposable plastic bags in favor of reusable alternatives by 2025,” stated Thomas Harrington, Kroger’s president and CEO. “This proactive stance is crucial for safeguarding our planet for future generations.”
Complementary Goals and Initiatives
Further complementing this initiative, Kroger has set ambitious goals, including diverting 90% of its waste from landfills by the year 2020 and launching a Food Rescue Program that aims to distribute over 91 million pounds of safe food to local food banks and pantries. In 2017 alone, Kroger provided more than 325 million meals to families in need.
Research indicates that only a small fraction—less than five percent—of plastic bags are recycled annually in the United States. Furthermore, single-use plastic bags rank as the fifth most common type of plastic debris found in the environment. National Geographic estimates that approximately 8.8 million tons of plastic enter oceans each year, adversely affecting marine ecosystems and the environment at large.
Customer Engagement and Corporate Responsibility
“We are attentive to our customers’ concerns regarding environmental impact,” commented Isabelle Grant, Kroger’s executive vice president and COO. “Starting today at QFC, we will initiate the shift towards more sustainable practices.” The organization remains committed to achieving full implementation of this initiative by 2025.
Kroger is part of a growing trend among corporations aimed at reducing plastic usage. Notably, Starbucks has pledged to eliminate plastic straws by 2020, while Disney has also announced similar measures to decrease its plastic footprint. In the UK, consumers have been charged a nominal fee for plastic bags since 2015, a strategy aimed at reducing litter.
How Shoppers Can Help
Shoppers can contribute to this effort by opting for paper bags instead of plastic or by using their own reusable bags when shopping. This simple action can significantly reduce reliance on single-use plastics.
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Conclusion
In summary, Kroger’s commitment to eliminate plastic bags by 2025 marks a crucial step towards environmental sustainability, reflecting a broader corporate responsibility trend. By phasing out single-use plastics and promoting reusable alternatives, Kroger aims to contribute positively to environmental preservation and community welfare.