Meijer highlights efforts to reduce emissions from diesel fleet

GRAND RAPIDS, Mich. — Mass merchandise chain Meijer operates one of the largest all-clean diesel vehicle fleets in North America, the company said Monday.

The Grand Rapids, Mich.-based retailer, which runs 203 stores in the Midwest and Kentucky, said its fleet used various technologies to improve fuel efficiency and reduce its carbon footprint by nearly 60%. The company, which has 170 semi trucks, said its fleet was the first in North America to implement the federal clean emissions standards that feature near-zero emissions technology.

"This is an extremely rewarding achievement that truly speaks to our commitment to the environment," Meijer EVP supply chain operations and manufacturing Rick Keyes said. "Not only are we integrating cutting-edge technology into our business; we also are working under the philosophy that to be a good company, we must be a good neighbor."

Improvements include a 47% reduction in particulate matter; a 55% reduction in nitrogen oxide; a 3% reduction in carbon dioxide; and a 5% increase in fuel economy.