Stop & Shop renews partnership with Environmental League of Massachusetts

QUINCY, Mass. — Stop & Shop is reaffirming its goal to reduce its effects on the environment, particularly in Massachusetts, the company said.

The Ahold USA banner, which operates 131 stores in the state, said it renewed its partnership with the Environmental League of Massachusetts as a member of the ELM Corporate Council and reiterated its commitment to help further the goals of a state law to reduce greenhouse gas emissions by 25% by 2020 and 85% by 2050. In 2008, the chain announced plans to reduce its carbon footprint by 20% by 2015.

The chain said 54 of its stores, including 16 in Massachusetts, use 20% less energy than a typical grocery store and are Leadership in Energy and Environment Design-certified.

"Stop & Shop is committed to responsible retailing knowing that what's good for society is good for business too," Stop & Shop New England president Joe Kelley said. "We continuously strive for ways in which we can make a positive impact in the communities we serve. Our partnership with ELM will help us continue to drive our sustainability efforts and help us contribute significantly to the state's overall sustainability mission."