Wal-Mart launches vendor carbon monitoring  

By Staff -- Home Textiles Today, 9/25/2007 12:17:00 PM

Bentonville, Ark. – The world’s biggest retailer, Wal-Mart, will launch a pilot program, teaming with the Carbon Disclosure Project (CDP) to monitor and ultimately reduce the carbon emissions impact of its supply chain – and those of its vendors.

“This is an opportunity to spur innovation and efficiency throughout our supply chain that will not only help protect the environment but save people money at the same time,” said John Fleming, evp and chief merchandising officer, Wal-Mart Stores Division.

The energy-efficiency monitoring will start with seven everyday product categories: DVDs, toothpaste, soap, milk, beer, soda and vacuum cleaners.

“By engaging its supply chain in the CDP process, Wal-Mart will encourage its suppliers to measure and manage their greenhouse gas emissions, and ultimately reduce the total carbon footprint of Wal-Mart’s indirect emissions,” said CDP chief executive Paul Dickinson.