Walmart launches Sustainability Index

The index is being introduced in three phases:

Step 1: Supplier Assessment
We will provide our more than 100,000 global suppliers with a brief survey to evaluate their own companies’ sustainability.
Step 2: Lifecycle Analysis Database
Second, we’re helping create a consortium of universities to collaborate with suppliers, retailers, non-governmental organizations and government officials.
Step 3: A Simple Tool for Customers
The final step of the index is to provide customers with product information in a simple, convenient, easy to understand manner so they can make choices and consume in a more sustainable way.

"We are excited about this initiative and believe that if we work together, we can create a new retail standard for the 21st century."