Giant recognized by EPA’s GreenChill program
Giant has been recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency’s GreenChill Program for reaching superior goal achievement in its refrigerant emissions reduction goal in 2022, for the second year in a row.
“As we work towards achieving more sustainable friendly stores, we continue to invest in our stores and find opportunities to reduce our carbon footprint,” said Joe LaCagnina, director, store format and brand integrity at Giant. “Being recognized once again by the EPA reinforces The Giant Company’s commitment as a responsible retailer and green innovator and illustrates that we are doing our part to help heal the planet.”
Since joining EPA’s GreenChill Program in 2021, Giant has implemented best practices from across the industry, including preventative maintenance programs and adding new refrigerant leak detection equipment. Giant shared that it also continues to exchange older gas cooking equipment for electric equipment, and replace refrigerants, cases and refrigeration systems with cleaner, more efficient products across its more than 190 stores.
[Related: Preserving Health, Protecting the Planet: the Path Toward Sustainable Blister Packs]
“Reducing refrigerant emissions takes dedication and commitment to improving practices that benefit both the ozone layer and the climate,” said Cindy Newberg, director of EPA’s stratospheric protection division. “That commitment is paying off. Giant should be proud of their efforts that have led to their continued success.”
EPA’s GreenChill is a voluntary partnership with food retailers, system manufacturers and chemical producers to reduce refrigerant emissions and decrease their impact on the ozone layer and climate change. GreenChill provides food retailers and other industry stakeholders with information and assistance to: transition to environmentally friendlier refrigerants, reduce the amount of refrigerant they use, eliminate refrigerant leaks, implement environmental best practices and adopt green refrigeration technologies.
[Read more: Giant releases community impact report]