Kroger, one of the largest supermarket chains in the United States, has announced its commitment to completely eliminate single-use plastic bags by 2025. This initiative is part of a broader strategy aimed at enhancing environmental sustainability, which the company has been advancing for over a decade. With over 2,700 stores operating under various names, including Ralphs and Harris Teeter, Kroger will start this transition in its QFC supermarkets based in Seattle and gradually extend it to all locations nationwide.
Rodney Thompson, the CEO of Kroger, emphasized the importance of this move, stating, “As part of our Zero Hunger/Zero Waste initiative, we are phasing out single-use plastic bags in favor of reusable alternatives by 2025. This bold step is essential for protecting our planet for future generations.” In addition to this, Kroger has set several ambitious goals, such as diverting 90 percent of its waste from landfills by 2020 and implementing a Food Rescue Program that has already provided over 91 million pounds of surplus food to local charities.
Research indicates that less than five percent of plastic bags are recycled each year in the U.S., and these bags rank among the most common types of single-use plastic found in the environment. A staggering 8.8 million tons of plastic find their way into oceans annually, posing significant risks to marine life and ecosystems. “We have been listening closely to our customers and communities, and we share their concerns,” said Lisa Monroe, Kroger’s COO. “Today, we are taking the first step toward more sustainable solutions at QFC, with a full rollout expected by 2025.”
Kroger joins other major companies in reducing plastic usage, such as Starbucks, which plans to eliminate plastic straws by 2020, and Disney, which has also committed to reducing plastic waste. In the UK, a charge of five pence for plastic bags has been in place since 2015 to help decrease litter.
As a consumer, you can contribute to this initiative by opting for paper bags instead of plastic or by bringing your own reusable bags when shopping. For more information on home insemination, check out this resource that offers valuable insights into this topic. You can also find a wealth of information about pregnancy at this excellent resource.
In summary, Kroger’s initiative to eliminate plastic bags by 2025 is a significant step toward environmental sustainability. This move aligns with the company’s broader strategy of reducing waste and supporting local communities through food rescue efforts. By encouraging customers to use reusable bags, Kroger aims to foster a more sustainable shopping experience.
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