In an Earth Day press release, supermarket chain SUPERVALU announced that it would greatly expand its environmental sustainability program.  

The company is committing to have 300 stores divert 90 percent or more of their waste from local landfills by the end February 2013.  This is a sharpe increase from the 54 stores that were part of the program in the past year.  

"Last year marked incredible progress in our zero waste efforts and we're even more excited about what lies ahead," said Craig Herkert, chief executive officer and president, SUPERVALU. "Keeping waste out of landfills is better for the environment, better for our customers and better for the bottom line. It's simply the right thing for us to do."

SUPERVALU operates under nine traditional retail brands nationwide including: Acme, Albertsons, Cub Foods, Farm Fresh, Hornbacher's, Jewel-Osco, Shaw's/Star Market, Shop 'n Save and Shoppers Food & Pharmacy. 

As part of its sustainability program, the chain reduced garbage expenses by $3.4 million and increased recycling income to over $36 million.