Central England Co-op has been awarded three Carbon Trust Standards for reducing its carbon emissions, waste and water use.
This the third time the society has won the trio of internationally recognised environmental certifications. Only three other retailers hold all three standards – Harrods, Selfridges and wholesale company Booker.
Green initiatives at Central England include the installation of new energy efficient refrigeration technologies and LED lighting and changes to its funeral and distribution network, reducing road miles and increasing fuel efficiency. Measures such as these have helped reduce its carbon footprint by 61% since 2010.
Hannah Gallimore, corporate responsibility manager, said: “As a co-operative, our ethical credentials mean we are brilliantly placed to do the right thing as a responsible business.
“We have reduced our carbon footprint by invested in green energy options and revolutionised the energy efficiency of every store.
“Everyone involved with Central England Co-operative is delighted to have been re-awarded by the Carbon Trust for a third time.”
Luke Olly, the society’s energy and environment lead, said: “We are committed to minimising our impact on the environment and, as a result, our activities across all of the business operations have made considerable positive environmental impacts.
“We, however, do not rest on our laurels and are continually working on new ideas and innovations to ensure we continue to make a real impact and difference when it comes to being a sustainable business.”
The Carbon Trust Standard is among the world’s leading independent certifications of environmental sustainability, verifying progress across areas including carbon emissions, waste outputs, and water use. It is accredited by the Carbon Trust, an international climate change consultancy.
The standards are awarded in recognition of best practice and real achievement in reducing environmental impact and improving resource management.
John Newton, associate director, the Carbon Trust, said: “The ongoing reductions made by Central England Co-op demonstrate real progress. Achieving reductions year on year becomes harder over time, so recertifying to these standards is certainly something for the business to be proud of.”
