Emission Reduction

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. Measurement of Kohl's carbon footprint was completed in 2008 by examining energy use and transportation miles. Kohl's reported 780,282 metric tons of carbon equivalents from direct and indirect sources using the EPA's guidelines for measurement. In addition, 358,692 metric tons of carbon equivalent were emitted as a result of Kohl's inbound and advertising transportation activities.

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 41% 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