Supermarket refrigerators and freezers are a significant source of global warming pollution. According to the Climate Friendly Supermarkets Scorecard, few stores are doing enough to tackle the issue.
Most stores use a refrigerant called HFC. They are very potent global warming gases.
Mahapatra: “So we need to eliminate our dependence on these super pollutants.”
Avipsa Mahapatra is with the nonprofit Environmental Investigation Agency. Every two years, the organization rates the largest U.S. supermarket companies on the steps they have taken to reduce hydrofluorocarbon leaks and shift to natural, climate-friendly refrigerants.
This year, Aldi received top marks. The chain uses natural refrigerants in about 30% of its U.S. stores and has committed to using natural refrigerants in all new and existing stores by 2035.
Mahapatra: “So it's a big commitment. It's also the first American company in this space to set this goal.
Meijer stands out for its low HFC leakage rate.
But most companies — including Walmart, Costco and Trader Joe's — received low scores.
Therefore, Mahapatra said these companies should do more to help reduce global warming caused by refrigerated food.
Report source: Sarah Kennedy/ChavoBart Digital Media
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