SEATTLE, April 20, 2007 (PRIME NEWSWIRE) -- Seattle supermarkets are going green. Local grocers Magnolia Thriftway and Ballinger Thriftway are the first mainstream Seattle supermarkets to assess their greenhouse gas emissions and offset those emissions through a partnership with NetGreen to become carbon-neutral businesses. They will also offer customers the opportunity to contribute toward renewable energy credits through the purchase of carbon offset greeting cards.
Most businesses and individuals generate greenhouse gas emissions from travel, heating their facilities, and even cooking. Becoming a carbon-neutral business and reducing their 'carbon footprint' is one way Thriftway is doing their part to increase awareness of global warming.
Purchases of the carbon offset greeting cards go to fund clean and renewable energy projects like wind and solar power. All funding is directed and certified by the respected non-profit organizations NetGreen and Native Energy. The average person in the Puget Sound generates 12 tons of greenhouse gas emissions each year. These offsets offer an easy way to make a difference immediately on greenhouse gas emissions.
"The purchase of carbon offsets are part of a plan to be a better partner for the planet. This month we are implementing commercial composting and commercial recycling programs which will reduce our waste by over 20%. For customers, we are also offering free saplings suitable for planting and the opportunity to purchase carbon offset greeting cards that allow concerned customers to offset their own carbon footprint," said Jeff Taylor, Director of Operations.
During the month of April, Magnolia and Ballinger Thriftway stores have also implemented multiple programs to reduce their impact on the planet. Customers can now shop in these supermarkets knowing that their participation in these stores allows them to tread lightly on the planet.
"Many of our customers care deeply about the food they buy and how it is brought to market. We decided that we needed to be more active in recognizing our impact. We have spent the last few years forming direct partnerships with local and organic growers and we feel that carbon offsets are the next logical step in being a progressive retailer," said Taylor.
For more information, go to www.achievenetgreen.org and www.nativeenergy.com.