Walmart Aims to Reduce Emissions by 50 Million Metric Tons in China

“As a global company, we are proud to use our reach to help create a more sustainable future, for our customers, associates, and the communities we serve,” said McMillon. “We believe that business can accelerate environmental progress while delivering economic growth. That’s why we’re committed to taking a shared value approach to our work in China and around the world.”

In terms of its commitment, Walmart was the first retailer to set an emissions-reduction plan approved by the Science Based Targets initiative and Project Gigaton falls under this plan, in alignment with the Paris Climate Agreement. Through Project Gigaton, Walmart aims to work with its suppliers to reduce emissions in its global value chain by one billion metric tons – a gigaton – by 2030, equal to the emissions from more than 211 million average passenger vehicles in a year. The 50 MMT emissions reduction target in China is part of this goal.

“Walmart has a rich history of collaboration with key stakeholders in China and we’re excited to bring our latest sustainability initiative, Project Gigaton, to China,” said Wern-Yuen Tan, president and CEO of Walmart China. “Integrating more sustainable practices into our operations, resource management and sourcing efforts can spur technological innovation, inspire brand loyalty and increase associate engagement.”

Over 400 suppliers in China, India, the U.S. and other countries have joined Project Gigaton and Walmart plans to continue to expand the program. To help provide resources to suppliers in China, Walmart has created a digital resource center in Mandarin and English with tools, case studies, and program resources on emissions reduction in the value chain: www.walmartsustainabilityhub.com.