Sustainability at Heritage Co-op

At Heritage Co-op, sustainability isn’t just a goal - it’s part of how we operate every day. From reducing waste in our food stores to supporting responsible farming practices, we are committed to making a positive impact across the communities we serve.

Food Stores: Reducing Waste, Supporting Community

We take a proactive approach to minimizing waste while giving back to those who need it most.

What We’re Doing:

• Donating food regularly to local food banks and other community organizations.
• Providing recycling bins for drink containers at store entrances
• Recycling cardboard and plastic wrap from daily operations
• Redirecting products not fit for human consumption multiple times every week through the LOOP Program at every Heritage Co-op Food Store location, helping reduce unnecessary waste while supporting local farms

Every product redirected is one less item in the landfill - and one more way we support our community.

The LOOP Program: Turning Waste into Opportunity

We’re proud to be part of the LOOP Program, a collaborative initiative between Co-ops and local farmers focused on reducing food waste.

How LOOP Works:

• Unsellable food is collected from Co-op locations
• Food is safely redirected to local farms
• Farmers use it as livestock feed, giving it a second life

The Impact:

• Diverts 1–2 million kilograms of food waste from landfills every month across Western Canada.
• Supports both environmental sustainability and local agriculture.

Through LOOP, we’re closing the loop on food waste - creating value where it would otherwise be lost.

Agro: Supporting Sustainable Farming Practices

Sustainability extends beyond our stores and into the fields we serve.

Cleanfarms Program

Heritage Co-op Agro locations proudly support Cleanfarms, a non-profit environmental stewardship organization helping farmers manage agricultural waste responsibly.

Materials Accepted:

• Seed & pesticide bags
• Large tote bags
• Containers (up to 23L)
• Totes & drums

Why It Matters:

• Promotes safe disposal of agricultural plastics and containers
• Supports a cleaner, healthier environment
• Helps farmers contribute to a more sustainable future

Our Commitment

From store shelves to farm fields, Heritage Co-op is committed to:

• Reducing waste wherever possible.
• Supporting local communities and organizations.
• Partnering with programs that drive real environmental impact.

Building a Better Future Together

Sustainability is a shared responsibility. Whether it’s recycling in-store, supporting local food initiatives, or partnering with farmers - every step we take brings us closer to a more sustainable future.

At Heritage Co-op, we’re proud to be part of that journey.