The Co-op Sustainability Committee is grateful to report that the Co-op is making good progress on reducing the Co-op’s environmental impact in the following ways:

In February 2022, the Co-op purchased two solar arrays that generate approximately 460,000 KWH of electricity per year for the Co-op. This is 70% of our total electricity usage. A digital display about the solar project is posted on the screen in the Co-op exit hallway.

We are working with an engineering firm to identify infrastructure changes to electrify more of our operations. This could include installing a new electric hot water heater, heating/ventilation/air conditioning units with heat pumps, kitchen cooking equipment, and additional chargers for electric vehicles. Green Mountain Power’s electricity generation is now 100% carbon free, and they are offering rebates for switching to electric equipment. Efficiency Vermont is also providing financial support.

We are working to reduce the Co-op’s use of plastic and exploring more ways to recycle plastic waste, offering information to help shoppers reduce food waste, and offering educational resources about how to reduce our environmental impact.

Currently about 38% of Co-op sales come from local sources, and we are looking for more local food sources. You can find out about becoming a local vendor and submit an application.

There is more information about what we are doing on Our Commitments page.

Considering that we are changing the climate and this is affecting our food supply, we feel there is an urgent need to reduce our environmental impact. We welcome your ideas and participation!

The Sustainability Committee
Catherine Lowther, Council Member and Sustainability Committee Chair
Kari Bradley, General Manager
Mary Mullaly, Storekeeping Manager
Jen Porrier, Council Member
Amanda Sardonis, Co-op Member