Three Cheers for Wal-Mart (Yes, Wal-Mart)

Other than discussing the upcoming presidential election, want a sure-fire way to get tempers flaring at a party? Mention Wal-Mart, the world's largest retailer, and start to talk about the way it is actually committed to the concepts of sustainability and green.

In the last few years, Wal-Mart has been investing in organic products such as cotton, milk, and many others, but has now taken things a step further with a deal they've recently struck with the World Wildlife Federation.

This new initiative concerns using more wood from certified sustainably managed forests and phasing out wood products from clear-cut and illegal forests. The company also plans to eliminate any unsustainable wood products from its supply chains.

Now this is an amazing turnaround from a corporation that has never had a problem using its incredible clout in the marketplace in whatever way it saw as its best advantage. The savings millions of consumers garnered through Wal-mart's lower prices never seemed able to offset some of the not-so-positive PR the company generated, and in many ways, earned.

However, like so many large multinational corporations, Wal-Mart's officials have also realized that with this market clout comes corporate responsibilities, and one of them is helping to maintain a planet in a way that keeps it healthy enough to sustain itself. Yes, there is a market philosophy behind these motives, but one that is bringing change, nevertheless.

Have fun at your next party.

Jonathan A. Schein is president and CEO of ScheinMedia, a diversified media company whose holdings include New York House Magazine, New Jersey & Company and FlierWire.com. He offers insights into the philosophy and business of green in his weekly newsletter.

COMMENTS ()