Question 1
1. Human and industry activity has a great impact on the environment. Managing this impact is
the first step in being environmentally responsible. Woolworths is committed to playing their
part in ensuring that the Woolies business is resilient in the face of climate change, while always
making every effort to reduce their impact on the environment, by doing everything they can to
think ahead, reduce their energy consumption and carbon emissions, and use more renewable
energy sources wherever possible. With specific reference to the information on the Woolworths
website, indicate how Woolworths is using energy responsibly and efficiently to help reduce their
impact on the environment.
Woolworths is demonstrating a strong commitment to energy responsibility and efficiency as part of
its environmental sustainability efforts. According to the company, they are taking proactive steps to
reduce energy consumption, carbon emissions, and reliance on non-renewable energy sources. Key
strategies outlined on their website that show how they are using energy responsibly and efficiently:
Real-Time Electricity Monitoring: Woolworths has implemented real-time electricity
monitoring across most of their operations, including head offices, distribution centers, and
stores. This allows them to track and manage their energy usage more effectively, helping to
monitor their energy footprint and optimize consumption (Woolworths, 2017).
Green Stores: The company has introduced a green building protocol for their stores,
categorizing them into three levels—Platinum, Gold, and Silver—based on their
energy-efficient design features. These features include natural ventilation, automated
energy-efficient lighting, and natural gas refrigeration systems, all of which help reduce energy
consumption and lower the carbon footprint of each store (Woolworths, 2017).
Fridge Doors: Woolworths has installed closed-door refrigeration in their food stores, which
has resulted in an approximately 25% reduction in energy usage. This technology not only
saves energy but also helps reduce food waste by maintaining a better cold-chain system, thus
extending the shelf life of products (Woolworths, 2017).
LED Lighting: The company has been replacing traditional metal halide and fluorescent lights
with energy-efficient LEDs. This shift reduces energy use, lowers carbon emissions, and results
in cost savings. The longer lifespan of LEDs also reduces maintenance requirements
(Woolworths, 2017).
Natural Gas Refrigeration: Since 2010, Woolworths has been using natural gas CO2
refrigeration systems in their food stores. Unlike conventional synthetic gases, CO2 has
minimal impact on the ozone layer and the climate, and also uses less energy, making it a more
sustainable option (Woolworths, 2017).
Renewable Energy Commitment: Woolworths has committed to sourcing all of their energy
from renewable sources by 2030. They are investing in renewable energy infrastructure and
power purchase agreements, reflecting their commitment to long-term sustainability
(Woolworths, 2017).
Energy-Efficient Logistics: The company continues to invest in optimizing routes and
temperature management for refrigeration systems in their delivery vehicles. They are also