Meijer honored by EPA for sustainable freight supply chain

Meijer is now the recipient of two SmartWay Excellence Awards.

Presented by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or EPA, the award recognizes freight supply chain environmental performance and energy efficiency.

“We appreciate the EPA’s continued support of our innovation and commitment to reducing our carbon footprint,” Tom McCall, the vice president of logistics for Meijer said. “At Meijer, we believe that to be a good company, we must be a good neighbor, which means doing what’s right for our communities and our planet.”

[Read More: Meijer recognized by EPA for low refrigerant emissions rate]

The Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer received honors in the mixed carrier fleet and shipper categories.

Currently, Meijer operates with 250 semi-trucks driven by an estimate of 400 drivers in Michigan, with an overall network of 750 trucks with more than 1,000 drivers covering 70 million miles a year, the company said.

“According to the EPA, moving freight accounts for more than 25% of all fuel consumed and Greenhouse Gasses emitted by the transportation sector,” McCall said. “We’re pleased to do our part to reduce those emissions.”

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In addition, the retailer also shared that it is currently testing new engines in its freightliner tractors with enhanced performance and thermal management to improve base engine fuel economy by 3.4%.

“We commend the innovation, drive, and collaborative spirit of our partners whose efforts are helping to meet the challenge of climate change and to create a healthier environment for us all,” Sarah Dunham, the director of EPA’s office of transportation and air quality said.