This may surprise those Americans who are newly aware of environmental issues and their far-reaching impact. But yes, even the Wal-Marts and BJ’s of the world are actively implementing green strategies in their long-range corporate plans. Say what you will about their shortcomings, but these big guys have the potential to make a big impact in the areas of conservation, materials sourcing, green building practices, and many other aspects of environmental stewardship. Of course, their motivations are many, including growing consumer demand for less piggish use of limited natural resources.

In the case of Wal-Mart, the sheer volume and range of its inventory offer wide opportunities, such as:

• negotiate with suppliers to reduce bulky product packaging and curtail use of plastic bags
• promote locally-sourced materials and food
• encourage mass production of energy-saving fluorescent light bulbs at modest prices.

These are initiatives that have already been implemented by Wal-Mart, in addition to their ambitious building program that has produced several energy-efficient buildings powered by alternative energy sources, with plans for more.

J.C. Penney has an energy-efficient store planned for an August 2009 opening in Texas, that both uses recycled building materials and has a water-conserving landscape plan, plus multiple energy-efficient HVAC systems.

As big retailers expand their sustainability agendas, there will be increasing work opportunities for building engineers and maintenance technicians, green supply-chain managers and purchasing agents and quality assurance specialists. Trained staff will also be needed to manage relationships with local food producers and distributors, and to manage sophisticated water-conservation and landscaping systems. And of course, shuttle bus drivers to take us to the nearest rapid-transit station so we can leave our cars at home

Resources:
Wal-Mart’s Sustainability program
J.C. Penney’s new Texas store