Kohl's recognizes human activities are changing the composition of the Earth's atmosphere. As a retailer, our biggest impact on the environment comes from our energy use. With this in mind, we are seeking ways to lessen our environmental impact.

Climate Leaders

Kohl's joined the Environmental Protection Agency Climate Leaders in 2007.

Kohl’s 2008 carbon measurement was 25,062 Metric Tons of Carbon Equivalents from direct emissions and 782,622 MTCE indirect emissions. 182,154 MTCE were emitted as a result of Kohl's inbound and advertising transportation activities. 5,851 MTCE were emitted as optional travel emissions.

We voluntarily disclose our measurement of transportation emissions. This measurement is reported to the EPA Climate Leaders and the Carbon Disclosure project.

Most of Kohl's emissions are a result of operations-based electricity usage. We are working to set goals to reduce our impact on the global environment.

Transportation Programs

In 2008, Kohl's executed 16,493 backhaul trips to our Distribution Centers from our vendors on return trips to stores. This eliminated 826,398 empty miles. These once-empty trailers now carry merchandise from our vendors, ultimately reducing the number of inbound transportation trips. Kohl's also uses rail transportation for 40% of all inbound transportation. Rail uses less fuel and causes fewer emissions than truck services.

Our transportation carriers are doing their part in fuel efficiency as well. In 2008, eight of our top 10 carriers had the highest rating of 1.25 in the EPA SmartWay program. The program stresses fuel efficiency and carbon-reduction strategies. In total, Kohl's achieved a 1.19 out of 1.24 rating for miles traveled in 2008 on EPA SmartWay-rated carriers.

Kohl's joined the EPA SmartWay Shipper program in 2007. In October 2008, Kohl's was recognized by the EPA with its SmartWay Shipper Excellence Award for achievements in efficient shipping of merchandise.

Bio-Diesel Fuel for Transportation

Kohl's is committed to moving merchandise to its stores efficiently. From June 2009 through January 2010, more than one million Outbound Transportation miles (shipments to Kohl's from distribution centers) were moved using bio-diesel fuel. This means that more than 4% of Kohl's Outbound Transportation miles were moved using tractors fueled with at least B5 grade bio-diesel, meaning the fuel is 5% bio-diesel and 95% petro-diesel. Bio-diesel fuel is made from renewable resources such as plant oils, animal fat and recycled grease. This fuel reduces carbon monoxide, hydrocarbons and other harmful emissions. Seven Kohl's carriers participate in this program.