EPA Recognizes Batavia-Based ALDI for Record-Breaking Environmental Efforts
Batavia-based ALDI has received the 2016-17 “Best of the Best” award from the Environmental Protection Agency’s GreenChill Partnership for its use of cutting-edge, environmentally sustainable refrigeration systems in 34 of its stores.
As part of its capital investment of $5 billion in new and remodeled stores over the next five years, ALDI is increasing its environmentally-friendly features in stores. New and remodeled stores feature environmentally-friendly building materials and energy-saving LED lighting. ALDI is committed to continuing to reduce its refrigerant emissions and received its first GreenChill certification in 2015.
“ALDI is taking steps to reduce its environmental impact not only because our customers expect it, but because it is the right thing to do as a business. Partnerships like the one we share with GreenChill are critically important, as they enable us to work toward our goal of sustainable business operations,” said Aaron Sumida, ALDI vice president.
“In switching to more environmentally friendly coolants, we strive to minimize the environmental impact of our refrigeration systems. This recognition from the GreenChill Partnership is a testament to our commitment.”
While the recognition typically goes to just one store, this year’s award from GreenChill acknowledges a record 34 platinum-certified ALDI stores. Platinum certification is the highest level awarded by GreenChill, and it requires each store to meet very stringent criteria.
ALDI headquarters, Batavia.
“ALDI deserves recognition for embracing GreenChill’s environmental protection goals through its platinum-level certification of so many stores,” said Tom Land, manager of EPA’s GreenChill program. “ALDI is showing industry leadership through active participation in the GreenChill partnership and through certification of innovative refrigeration systems.”
The partnership with GreenChill is just one way that ALDI is working to reduce its impact on the environment. Last year, ALDI increased the number of stores with rooftop solar panels by more than 45 percent and will continue to grow its solar portfolio and use of green electricity.
Additionally, ALDI has recycled nearly 100 percent of the cardboard, paper, plastic film and foil that it uses in its warehouses since 2012. Moreover, its new warehouses are constructed with sun shades and special glass to insulate and reduce heat from the sun.
GreenChill works with food retailers to reduce refrigerant emissions and decrease their impact on the ozone layer and climate change. The “Best of the Best” achievement recognizes GreenChill-certified stores demonstrating innovation in advanced refrigeration technology.
Click the link to read more on Corporate Responsibility efforts at ALDI. To learn more, visit the GreenChill webpage.
About ALDI Inc.
A leader in the grocery retailing industry since 1976, ALDI operates nearly 1,700 U.S. stores in 35 states. More than 40 million customers each month benefit from the ALDI simple and streamlined approach to retailing. ALDI sells the most frequently purchased grocery and household items, primarily under its exclusive brands, which are designed to meet or exceed the national name brands on taste and quality. For more information about ALDI, visit aldi.us.
About EPA’s GreenChill Partnership
EPA’s GreenChill Partnership works with supermarkets to reduce refrigerant emissions and decrease their impact on the ozone layer and climate change. The Partnership provides information and assistance to help supermarkets transition to environmentally friendlier refrigerants; reduce harmful refrigerant emissions; and adopt green refrigeration technologies, strategies, and practices. For more information on EPA’s GreenChill Partnership, including its store certification program, please visit www2.epa.gov/greenchill.
SOURCE ALDI Inc.
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