Skylands Region Grocer – Advanced Refrigeration Project

Project Highlights:

• A family-run supermarket in rural New Jersey adopts a near-zero emission CO2 refrigerant system, reducing cooling emissions by nearly 99%.
• The CO2 system displaces traditional refrigerants that cause 3,448 times more environmental damage and eliminates harmful chemicals, addressing groundwater contamination concerns.
• The Skylands Region Grocer project empowers a small, local store with budget constraints to embrace climate-friendly practices, contributing to global climate change initiatives.

Project Description:

In rural New Jersey, a family-run supermarket takes a bold step towards environmental sustainability by choosing a natural refrigerant cooling system over conventional, climate-damaging alternatives. The CO2 refrigerant rack system installed is a game-changer, boasting near-zero emissions and displacing traditional refrigerants notorious for causing 3,448 times more environmental damage.

The switch to this advanced refrigeration technology results in an immediate and permanent reduction of cooling emissions by nearly 99%. Beyond emission reduction, the CO2 system also circumvents the use of dangerous chemicals that could leach into groundwater, a critical concern for a community previously affected by a historical EPA Superfund site.

Recognizing the cost challenges associated with implementing natural systems, especially for small, local grocers, the Skylands Region Grocer project emerges as a beacon of change. This initiative empowers a family-run store with budget constraints to embrace climate-friendly practices that may have otherwise been deemed cost-prohibitive.

The project not only transforms the supermarket's environmental footprint but also reclaims the community narrative around environmental justice. By participating in international efforts to combat climate change, this family-run store becomes a local champion for global environmental initiatives. The Skylands Region Grocer project exemplifies how even modest businesses can play a crucial role in advancing climate action and contributing to a sustainable future.