According to the Environmental Investigation Agency, about one quarter of the carbon footprint of supermarkets comes from the cooling gases used in their refrigeration systems. Hydro fluorocarbon (HFC)-free refrigeration installation technology has been complex, and lack of technical know-how has been a major barrier to adoption.
Waitrose has provided a solution to this problem by developing a simple HFC-free refrigeration installation that can be easily serviced by retrained engineers. The company will invest in additional training to ensure that the system is rolled out quickly and efficiently.
As part of its continuing commitment to sustainability, Waitrose has also announced its commitment to reducing leaks from refrigerants by 50% over the next three years, and to report publicly on progress.
The new technology will be introduced in the new Waitrose Altrincham branch in 2010 and in every new and major refitted branch thereafter.
Nigel Keen, director of building and services and development, said: “This is a very exciting new development for Waitrose and for all retailers. Reduction of HFCs is a major concern for supermarkets, and the beauty of this system is its simplicity.”
Source: Waitrose
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