PROVIDENCE, RI - When working toward a long-term goal, validation that you are on the right path is essential. United Natural Foods, Inc. (UNFI) has received such confirmation, as the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi) recently validated and approved the distributor’s science-based emissions reduction targets. These targets include a commitment to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions, waste, and make progress on other key Environmental, Social, and Governance priorities.

“Climate change continues to pose a serious threat to our planet and UNFI is committed to taking bold action on environmental issues and investing in opportunities to reduce our emissions,” said Chief Executive Officer, Sandy Douglas. “Through adoption and pursuit of these science-based targets, UNFI is proud to help lead the North American wholesale and grocery distribution industry, and humbly recognizes the critical importance of coordinated and rapid decarbonization.”

UNFI’s emissions reduction targets are reportedly consistent with levels required to meet the goals of the Paris Agreement. From an operations standpoint, UNFI plans to reduce scope 1 and 3 heavy freight well-to-wheel GHG emissions from transportation by 38 percent on an intensity basis.

Another goal is to reduce absolute scope 1 and 2 GHG emissions from all other emission sources by 50 percent.

Together, distribution centers, retail, fleet, and all refrigerant emissions account for less than 5 percent of the company’s total scope 1, 2, and 3 emissions. As part of its value chain target, UNFI plans to reduce absolute scope 3 GHG emissions from purchased goods and services by 25 percent.

“We are excited to take the next step in our emissions reduction journey by having our targets validated by SBTi, but we know we can’t accomplish these goals alone,” said Alisha Real, Director of Sustainability and Social Impact. “We take the need for business accountability in solving this global challenge seriously and look forward to engaging our value chain in these important efforts.”

To promote reductions, UNFI created the Climate Action Hub to provide tools and resources to innovate and scale climate solutions across the food system.

Hub visitors will find resources such as a Climate Action Guide, which provides tips on how to advance their own emissions reduction work.

Congratulations to UNFI on this monumental achievement!

United Natural Foods, Inc.