As of July 2024, Walmart and Sam’s Club have integrated new technology to streamline food waste management, boosting sustainability and improving operational efficiency. In collaboration with Denali, the leading recycler of organic materials, Walmart implemented the Zero Depack program in more than 1,400 locations and clubs. This initiative utilizes advanced depackaging technology to efficiently separate expired and unsalable food from its packaging, reducing the burden on associates and enhancing recycling processes. The program is expected to improve waste streams, promote sustainability, and foster a sense of pride among employees.
In 2022, the United States produced approximately 77.6 million kilograms of food waste, as per ReFED. Walmart is making the effort to reduce waste by recycling and donating unsalable foods, a procedure that Denali's technology has enhanced. The new machines, capable of separating up to 97% of trash from organic waste, enable associates to focus more on customer service. The collected organic waste is repurposed into valuable biosolids for farming applications, thus keeping waste out of landfills. This partnership not only aligns with Walmart’s long-term sustainability goals but also supports the community and the environment by transforming food waste into useful products.
