Aug 10, 2008

Wal-Mart To Suppliers: Go GreenBy WNBC.com

Bentonville, Ark. — Wal-Mart is telling its suppliers that it’s not enough to simply provide eco-friendly products.

The world’s largest retailer wants to be able to tell its customers the stories behind the products, of how they came to be and how sustainable they are.

Wal-Mart sustainability director Rand Waddoups said the company is emphasizing four points in its sustainability marketing. Wal-Mart wants to promote waste reduction and recycling, natural resources, energy and social or community impact and it’s looking for products that fit that bill.

Wal-Mart is helping suppliers develop eco-friendly products and help them back up their green claims.

As examples of products with stories to tell, Waddoups pointed to SunChips, which has an all-solar plant in California. He also touted Majestic Rubber Mulch, which is made from recycled tires from Wal-Mart stores.

For years, Wal-Mart has worked to lower costs through fuel savings, less waste, more efficient packaging and reduced electricity use.

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