Major US grocer Kroger has outlined its new stakeholder priorities and operational improvements in its environmental, social and governance (ESG) 2020 report.

In its ESG report, Kroger highlights the firm reduced retail food waste generated by 4% in 2019 and improved food waste diversion from landfill by 5%. Since introducing its Zero Hunger | Zero Waste initiative in 2017, the firm has reduced total retail food waste generated by 13% through strategic ordering best practices, item markdown programmes and innovative supply chain initiatives.

Since 2017, Kroger’s store associates have improved food waste diversion from landfill by 18% through increased recycling via anaerobic digestion, composting programmes and turning waste into animal feed. The firm’s overall goal is to achieve zero food waste by 2025.

“Our annual ESG report underpins Kroger’s vision to serve the US through food inspiration and uplift,” said Rodney McMullen, Kroger’s chairman and CEO. “We are committed to continuing to integrate ESG metrics into our business strategy, driving shared value for our associates, customers, communities, and company.

“We’re pleased to share Kroger’s latest performance on key topics, including our 2020 sustainably goals and Zero Hunger | Zero Waste metric. We also look what lies ahead and we’re proud to announce the first of several new priorities and commitments that will help affirm Kroger’s sustainability leadership through the next decade and beyond.”