In a move that can only delight the ethical consumer, the Co-operative Group has announced that it will be switching all of its outlets over to green electricity. More than 3000 Co-op shops, as well as its Co-op Bank branches, Co-operative Insurance (CIS) and the company’s Manchester headquarters and UK distribution sites will use green energy.
As announced in the Green Consumer Guide:
The decision builds on the Co-op’s environmentally-friendly policies, which include GM-free foods and a range of ethically-orientated financial products.
The announcement comes after a three year agreement with Scottish Power, and will involve energy generated at the companies joint venture, the Coldham wind farm in Cambridgeshire.
“Our customers and members expect us to take a leading position in tackling climate change impacts. By choosing this approach we want our customers to benefit from a high quality shopping experience, which also addresses much wider environmental issues,” commented Group Chief Executive Martin Beaumont.
“All businesses need to undoubtedly address their impacts on climate change, but for a member-owned co-operative it’s an imperative,” added Mr. Beaumont.