If every supermarket in the nation joined GreenChill and reduced their emissions to the current GreenChill average, the industry could prevent the release of 13 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent and 157 ozone-depleting potential tons annually, said Cecil Wright, vice president of sustainability at Organic Valley. That’s a tremendous step in fostering a more sustainable supply chain for the entire food distribution industry.
We’re delighted to be a part of this initiative and help promote the immense opportunities for cost-savings and contributions to the environment GreenChill offers.
Already, Organic Valley integrates ammonia cooling systems at its Chaseburg, Wisconsin, creamery and it’s Cashton, Wisconsin, distribution center.
Ammonia is a natural refrigerant that is environmentally safe to the atmosphere and has a superior thermodynamic property. So, it requires minimum energy when used in large industrial refrigeration systems. Ammonia does not destroy ozone, or contribute to the greenhouse gas effect.
When compared to the remaining supermarket industry, GreenChill partners are already emitting fewer ozone-depleting refrigerants and greenhouse gases than their competitors, and saving money as well. The six original supermarket partners saved around $13 million in operating costs in 2007.
GreenChill is EPA cooperative alliance, launched in 2007. EPA works with grocers and foodservice providers in reducing emissions from retail refrigeration.
Organic Valley is a US-based cooperative of organic farmers.
