M&S ahead of schedule for 2015 sustainability targets
UK highstreet giant Marks and Spencer has commented that it is well on track to become the most sustainable retailer in the world by 2015.
According to half-year figures, it will comfortably meet at least half of the 180 sustainability targets it set out for itself by next April – which is well ahead of schedule.
As part of its Plan A, which chairman and ex-chief executive Stuart Rose implemented three years ago, Marks has been able to introduce 399 aerodynamic trailers, known as teardrops, that will improve fuel efficiency by an impressive 10% while carrying 10% more stock – a move that has successfully reduced its carbon footprint by at least 2300 tonnes per year.
In the mean time, 25 stores are now making use of environmentally friendly CO2 refrigeration technology while a further 175 stores have been converted to utilise a much cleaner HFC gas. As well as this, Marks and Spencer has cleverly issued its 35,000 employees with energy monitors that will help reduce the amount of energy they use at home too.
On its own accord, the company is making great progress towards its goal to increase recycling of its operational waste as 92%, to 100% of its waste will not go to landfills by 2012.
Speaking on recent developments, new chief executive, Mr Marc Bolland , commented that Plan A was an integral part of the company’s business, and lies at the very heart of the famous M&S brand. As well as being great news for the environment however, it is also profitable for those involved behind the scenes.
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