San Francisco — Gap Inc. has released its Social and Environmental Responsibility Report, committing to cut greenhouse gas emissions and reduce electricity consumption in its distribution centers.
San Francisco — Gap Inc. has released its fifth Social and Environmental Responsibility report, a comprehensive update on its supply chain operations, environmental programs and community investment efforts from 2009 to 2010.
“Gap Inc. takes seriously the importance of being a responsible company,” said Glenn Murphy, chairman and CEO, this week. “For nearly 20 years, we’ve worked to address some of the major challenges facing our industry and to operate our business in line with our value to do what’s right. While we’re not perfect, we’re proud of the progress made.”
Reducing the environmental impact of the company’s operations remains a top priority in the years ahead. Gap Inc. reported that 100% of its branded denim is made in compliance with the company’s Water Quality System, ensuring the wastewater from the laundries is properly treated before being discharged. In this report, the company also committed to reducing the absolute greenhouse gas emissions from its operations in the United States by 20% by 2015, when compared to 2008 levels. This follows an earlier 20% decrease in greenhouse gas emissions from 2003 to 2008.
Other accomplishments include:
• More space efficient containers and redesigned packaging eliminated 57,000 tons of cardboard and 63 million yards of plastic bands per year from our U.S. operations, for a cost savings of approximately $20 million a year.
• Reduced electricity consumption in Gap’s distribution centers by 40% by replacing more than 16,000 light bulbs with more energy-efficient lights.
The full online report can be viewed here: www.gapinc.com/socialresponsibility
Gap Inc. is a leading global specialty retailer whose brands include Gap, Banana Republic, Old Navy, Piperlime and Athleta. Gap Inc. has about 3,100 company-operated stores, about 200 franchise stores, and e-commerce sites. For more information, visit www.gapinc.com.