The buildings are blue, but Wisconsin Wal-Marts are turning more green.
Wal-marts in the Badger State are highlighting eco-friendly products and seeking to do business with more Wisconsin companies. Lisa Nelson, Senior Public Affairs manager in Wisconsin, says Wal-Mart is promoting Earth Month throughout April — and beyond.
"April is earth month, but this is just a celebration of our commitment to sustainability – sustainability our corporate leadership has taken on as a company priority, something that we have integrated into our business model, it is something we do every day."
Nelson says the company aims to make sustainable products more accessible and affordable for everyone, especially families on a budget. She says their customers can do the right thing for the planet and save money!
"We listen to our customers and our customers want access and they want choice. Organics is a hugely growing part of our grocery business. Our customers are looking for organic choices and those are healthy choice. We believe that everyone regardless of income ought to have access to those products to help them live healthier better lives."
Nelson says Wal-mart's sustainability program goes from their store design, including sunlights and energy-saving freezers, to the products they sell, like millions of compact fluorescent light bulbs, to recycling everything.
Wal-mart has over 1500 suppliers in Wisconsin, and Nelson says they are seeking more local companies with earth-friendly products and services.
"We wanted to reach out to Wisconsin companies and say 'hey, do you have any earth-friendly products that we can put on our shelves?'"
NOTE: Walmart operates 56 Supercenters, 26 discount stores and 12 Sam's Clubs in Wisconsin.