JACKSONVILLE, FL - Southeastern Grocers (SEG) is giving a nod to Earth Month with the release of its 2023 Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) report in addition to several initiatives. The grocer is donating 33,500 reusable bags and supporting local conservation efforts through volunteerism and monetary donations in honor of Earth Month.

“Our associates, customers, partners, and communities are constantly inspiring us to lead for positive change to help foster a healthier, more inclusive world,” Anthony Hucker, President and Chief Executive Officer, said. “In 2023, we took significant steps to promote fairness, diversity, and sustainability throughout our operations. By implementing eco-friendly practices, supporting our diverse workforce and partnering with suppliers who share our values, we actively worked to safeguard our environment and create a more equitable future."

The annual sustainability report offers a comprehensive overview of SEG’s support of the environment and its neighbors through ongoing corporate social responsibility efforts across the Southeast, a press release stated. The grocer aligns its sustainability report with six specific United Nations Sustainable Development Goals, which address hunger, health, education, inequalities, responsible consumption and production, and ocean conservation.

In 2023, SEG, together with its charitable arm, the SEG Gives Foundation, donated more than $3.7 million to local communities. This included more than $560,000 in crucial funds and 13 million pounds of food to help alleviate hunger.

Last year, SEG also furthered its commitment to diversity among its associates and supplier partners. SEG also remains committed to responsible environmental stewardship and advocating for fair practices for animal welfare and pollinators through collaboration with suppliers and community partners.

SEG has increased its waste reduction efforts by eliminating the use of nearly 125,000 pounds of paper and 1.95 million single-use plastic bags. In celebration of Earth Month, the grocer is donating 33,500 reusable bags to local food banks and organizations serving underrepresented communities across the Southeast. SEG is also donating more than $12,000 to local and conservation-focused organizations throughout the Southeast.

For more from the press release, click here.

As we round out Earth Month with more celebrations, keep reading us here at ANUK.