Can Wal-Mart really go green?
Wal-Mart has faced a number of issues in recent years – from claims that it doesn’t treat its workers fairly to allegations that it is not a “green company.” Yet, even in the midst of the recession, Wal-Mart appears to be doing something right.
When it comes to becoming eco-friendly, Wal-Mart aims to be 100% renewable energy powered. Yet, this goal is not as straight-forward as it might seem. For the past 2 years, the company has been fighting several lawsuits that claim a pair of Wal-Mart Supercenters should not be built as approved. In fact, the Center for Biological Diversity has filed lawsuits against Yucca Valley and Perris claiming that allowing the new Wal-Mart stores would violate the greenhouse gas emissions standards of the state of California.
Wal-Mart Rooftop Solar Panels
Wal-Mart wants to put the litigation behind it, not surprisingly. As part of a settlement agreement, it has agreed to install three rooftop solar power systems, at least 250 kW in size, plus install efficient HVAC and LED lighting at the proposed new stores. The company will also donate $120,000 to the Mojave Desert Land Trust, which is working to expand Joshua Tree National Park.
Maybe these lawsuits are a blessing in disguise for the company.
By installing rooftop solar panels (see the image to the left) Wal-Mart sets an example for other major retailers. In fact, Wal-Mart has been working to determine whether new store designs and renewable energy systems could make their “big box” stores more energy efficient, and hopefully totally renewable-powered.
When it comes to solar power, Wal-Mart’s California stores that have solar arrays can generate 20-30% of the stores’ energy requirements. Over the next 12 months, the company will add up to 20 new systems, as well.
So, to answer the question, “Can Wal-Mart go green?” The response appears to be yes.
The only remaining inquiry is what will give the company the incentive to do so?
Tags: wal-mart green, wal-mart greenhouse gas emissions, wal-mart solar, wal-mart supercenter
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