Sustainability

From concentrated laundry detergents to chemical-free cleaners, “green” products are popping up all over Hy-Vee’s shelves. And behind the scenes, in ways you may never see, Hy-Vee is taking additional steps to make its stores and operations more earth-friendly.

Our sustainability mission statement

Hy-Vee is committed to doing business in a manner that promotes the well-being of our customers, employees, communities and the global environment.

Waste reduction and recycling

• In 2007, Hy-Vee recycled more than 2 million pounds of cardboard, 1 million pounds of plastic, 2 million pounds of wood and plastic pallets, 75,000 pounds of tin cans, 24,000 pounds of paper and 10,000 gallons of used oil.
• The company also recycles computer print cartridges, electric lights and cooking oil.
• Stores have increased their use of pretrimmed produce and prepackaged meat, reducing waste and transportation needs.
• Hy-Vee is working with its suppliers to eliminate wax-coated cardboard, which cannot be recycled.

Go green with a reusable bag

Reduce waste by toting your groceries home in a reusable bag, available at your local Hy-Vee. According to The Wall Street Journal, the U.S. goes through 100 billion plastic shopping bags annually. Now you can help stop the waste with this earth-friendly solution. Bags come in two styles (regular or deluxe) and two colors (green or blue). The deluxe bag is lined with a special insulation that will keep food cold during transport.

Store building and design

• Upgraded in-store equipment includes doors on cold cases (including dairy cases).
• Overnight dimming controls provide enough light for stocking crews, without the wattage used during daytime shopping hours.
• Low-E tinted windows allow heat in during winter and  keep it out in summer.
• Concrete and terrazzo floors are synthetic-free and don’t require chemicals for cleaning.
• Landscaping with native plants reduces water consumption.
• Reclaimed waste heat from compressors is used to preheat air and domestic water.

Transportation

Hy-Vee is testing the efficiency of super-single tires, and has added aerodynamic kits to the trucks and trailers in its transportation fleet. Together, these changes are believed responsible for a 5 to 6 percent improvement in miles per gallon.

Things you can do

Hy-Vee is working to make it easier for customers to join their eco-friendly efforts. Examples include:

• Carrying your groceries home in a reusable bag—a variety of bags are available for purchase at Hy-Vee.
• Using the plastic bag recycling containers available at most store locations.
• Selecting green products, such as paper towels made from recycled fiber, biodegradable cleaning wipes and concentrated detergents in smaller bottles.