Sysco makes pledge to go electric

Sysco has pledged to convert 35% of its U.S. big-rig trucks to electric power by 2030 as part of a new initiative to reduce emissions that could harm the environment.

The new effort also calls for the giant foodservice distributor to use exclusively renewable sources of energy throughout its global operations by 2030 and to collaborate with suppliers on setting targets for reducing their carbon emissions.  

Partnerships with the manufacturers of supplies carted by Sysco affords the greatest opportunity to reduce emissions within the company’s supply chain, according to the announcement that was issued Monday.

Switching to electric power for 35% of its tractor fleet is the equivalent of adding 2,500 electric trucks, the announcement noted.

“Over time, we believe we will be able to do more and are motivated to further our work across the value chain to quicken the pace of innovation and provide a pathway for other companies to participate in climate action,” Neil Russell, SVP of corporate affairs and chief communications officer, said in a statement.

Sysco is the foodservice industry's largest broadline distributor.