How can Wal-Mart China improve sustainability in its distribution

and retail operations? (Consider “reduce, reuse and recycle” as

well as innovation.)

The article “Walmart China: Sustainable Operations Strategy” is an interesting case study,
the case looks into the evolution of environmental strategy, it emerged as one of the green
organizations of the world. “The company has grown significantly till now expanding their
empire in thirteen countries, with over 7,000 stores, 68,000 suppliers and two million
associates.”

Walmart china followed 5 “Strategic Value Networks” (SVNs), of the 14 SVNs to reach
business sustainability, which are:
 Sustainable stores and operations.
 Sustainable products.
 Supply China compliance and standards.
 Supply chain efficiencies.
 Communications.

I feel the following points helped Walmart China to improve sustainability in its distribution
and retail operations:
 Energy consumption – Walmart China used T5 energy saving bulbs which helped in
reducing the consumption of electricity by 20-30%.
 Recyclable shopping bags – Banning of plastic bags, inspired Walmart and its
customers to use reusable shopping bags.
 Batteries placed stations – The company placed used battery disposing stations to
reduce the flow of harmful chemicals from the battery to ground water.
 Substitution of energy- Walmart made use of 10 solar energy water heaters to
produce hot water, they also made use of solar cells and wind power generators for
electricity. This not only helped Walmart in the cost of electricity but also helped in
reducing 31 tons of CO2 emission every year.
 Outsourced third party logistics- They outsourced trucking fleets which not only
improved their operational shipments but also reduced the risk of merchandise
travelling.