The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) have honored 127 organizations for excellence in protecting the environment through superior energy efficiency. The retail recipients for 2014 include Sears Holdings Corporation, Kohl’s Corporation and Hanesbrands Inc.
Winners were selected from 16,000 Energy Star partners, including manufacturers, retailers, public schools, hospitals, real estate companies and home builders, for their dedication to protecting the environment. Products, homes and buildings that earn the Energy Star label prevent greenhouse gas emissions by meeting strict energy efficiency requirements set by the U.S. EPA.
EPA Deputy Administrator Bob Perciasepe said, “EPA applauds this year’s Energy Star Partner of the Year Award winners, who have demonstrated innovative strategies to help their customers, partners and stakeholders save energy and cut greenhouse gas emissions.” He added, “Their commitment to saving energy helps fight climate change while also helping their bottom line.”
Sears was recognized as a Partner of the Year–Sustained Excellence, meaning the retailer has demonstrated continued leadership and dedication to environmental protection. According to Energy Star, Sears received the award for “its impressive commitment to offering a wide array of ENERGY STAR products and services, to superior energy management across its building portfolio, and to driving awareness and adoption of energy efficiency and climate protection through enhanced associate and consumer education. Sears’ longstanding efforts exemplify an ongoing commitment to leverage its retail capabilities for maximum energy efficiency in the marketplace.”
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Energy Star said Kohl’s, also named Partner of the Year–Sustained Excellence, received the award for “its continued commitment to seeking innovative solutions to reducing energy use while demonstrating the value of environmental stewardship to customers and the general public.” The retailer has improved weather normalized source energy use by 3 percent, switched to LED lighting at several stores and used social media, internal and external websites and innovative educational tactics to engage employees and customers in order to raise awareness about energy efficiency.
Hanesbrands improved energy intensity by 1.4% and CO2 emissions intensity by 1.5% and, since 2007, has advanced energy intensity by more than 21 percent. They have also integrated their energy management program into a comprehensive sustainability management system, bringing together management of energy, environment, and product development into one program to focus on conserving natural resources and reducing environmental impacts.