Companies are continuing to put sustainability and the health of our planet as a top priority alongside nutrition for consumers. One company working toward this long-term goal is United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI). Recently, the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) validated and approved the distributor’s science-based emissions reduction targets. These targets include a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and waste, in addition to making progress on other key Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) priorities.
“Climate change continues to pose a serious threat to our planet and UNFI is committed to taking bold action on environmental issues and investing in opportunities to reduce our emissions,” said Chief Executive Officer, Sandy Douglas. “Through adoption and pursuit of these science-based targets, UNFI is proud to help lead the North American wholesale and grocery distribution industry, and humbly recognizes the critical importance of coordinated and rapid decarbonization.”
UNFI’s emissions reduction targets are reportedly consistent with levels required to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement.
From an operations standpoint, UNFI plans to reduce scope 1 and 3 heavy freight well-to-wheel GHG emissions from transportation by 38 percent on an intensity basis. Together, distribution centers, retail, fleet, and all refrigerant emissions account for less than 5 percent of the company’s total scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions.
“We are excited to take the next step in our emissions reduction journey by having our targets validated by SBTi, but we know we can’t accomplish these goals alone,” said Alisha Real, Director of Sustainability and Social Impact. “We take the need for business accountability in solving this global challenge seriously and look forward to engaging our value chain in these important efforts.”
As part of its value chain target, UNFI plans to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services by 25 percent. Another goal is to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions from all other emission sources by 50 percent.
To promote reductions, UNFI created the Climate Action Hub to provide tools and resources to innovate and scale climate solutions across the food system. Hub visitors will find resources such as a Climate Action Guide, which provides tips on how to advance their own emissions reduction work.
Here’s to more developments and advancements in our industry as we work toward a cleaner environment.
