Everyone’s favorite French retailer, Target (they’re actually based in Minnesota), has announced a set of sustainability goals meant to reflect its commitment to energy efficiency.
In addition to using solar rooftop systems and energy efficient lighting, the company plans to lower greenhouse gas emissions by 10 percent per square foot, to cut water use by 10 percent per square foot, and to divert 15 percent of their landfill waste by 2016.
To reach these goals, Target will enact procedures like waste-stream auditing and increasing efficiency at distribution centers where goods are received and shipped. They will also work to get 1,300 more stores qualified for the Energy Star certification (more than 100 stores are already certified.)
For consumers, the company plans to offer more sustainable products. Target shoppers may also receive a five-cent discount for reusing a bag rather than accepting new, plastic ones; a practice which is said to keep 63 million plastic bags out of landfills per year.
