Walmart reports substantial China emissions reductions

Walmart Inc announced on April 18 its suppliers have reported a reduced 3.46 million metric tons (CO2e) of greenhouse gas emissions in the Chinese value chain. 

This is equivalent to emissions associated with the average annual electricity consumption of over 3 million Chinese households, according to Walmart. The company said it is a strong first year result for Project Gigaton China, which the global leading retailer launched with the aim of preventing 50 million metric tons of emissions in the Chinese value chain alone. 

It is part of Walmart's global commitment to work with its suppliers to cut 1 billion metric tons — a "gigaton" — of greenhouse gas emissions from the global value chain of upstream suppliers and downstream consumers by 2030. 

Dirk Van den Berghe, executive VP and regional CEO of Walmart Canada & Asia, said: "As Project Gigaton gains momentum, it will not only have a substantial impact on sustainability in China, but will also help our suppliers improve their competitiveness and deliver more innovative products to consumers in China and to export markets worldwide." 

Walmart is also collaborating with HSBC in its "Sustainable Supply Chain Finance" program, which launched on April 18. The program allows suppliers that demonstrate progress in The Sustainability Index, powered by The Sustainability Consortium's measurement and reporting system, or through Project Gigaton to apply for improved financing from HSBC. 

The two sides said the global collaboration between HSBC and Walmart demonstrates both companies' resolve in shaping the transition to a lower-emissions world.

Walmart has also committed to reducing carbon intensity of its own operations in China through initiatives such as increasing the percentage of its electricity supplied by renewables and upgrading existing equipment such as lighting, refrigeration and other equipment in its stores. 

Walmart opened 33 new stores in China last year, including four Sam's Clubs and a new supermarket format, all incorporating energy-saving features.