News, convenience and books retailer WHSmith has been ranked within the top 12 global sustainability leaders in the retail sector based on the Dow Jones Sustainability Index (DJSI).

While the DJSI recognises companies for their Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) performance, it importantly supports investors tracking equity markets by applying sustainability ‘best-in-class’ selection criteria.

WHSmith’s ranking emerged from a list of 357 retail companies within the index.

In a statement, the retailer – its International business of which recently witnessed management changes, as exclusively reported by TRBusiness – says sustainability is ingrained within its corporate mission.

CARBON NEUTRALITY TARGETS MET

This year, WHSmith has met targets to reach carbon neutrality for all its UK operations, having reached a 65% reduction in carbon emissions across the business since 2007.

One-hundred percent of the electricity purchased in the UK for its stores, offices and distribution centres is derived from renewable electricity.

 

Coupled with this is more environmentally responsible sourcing practices, such as removing plastic glitter from all its own-brand ranges and hard-to-recycle plastics where possible.

It has also continued to champion its commitment towards children’s literacy and promote diversity and inclusion across the business.

The retailer will publish its sustainability report on 6 December.