Producing and using environmentally friendly products is a globally valued consumer trend. In Vietnam, many people, especially the younger generation, prioritize "green" consumption to protect their health, regenerate energy, and safeguard the environment. "Green" consumption is seen as a way to "save the planet" from the negative changes in the global environment. This is also one of the key components of the National Strategy on Green Growth for the period 2021-2030.

SATRA's retail system has switched to eco-friendly, biodegradable bags. Photo: SATRA

SATRA's retail system has switched to eco-friendly, biodegradable bags. Photo: SATRA

To meet the green consumption needs of consumers, Saigon Trading Corporation (SATRA)'s retail system has recently implemented several specific initiatives. For instance, the entire network of 4 Satramart supermarkets and over 180 Satrafoods convenience stores across Ho Chi Minh City has switched to eco-friendly, biodegradable bags. This retail system also encourages customers to bring their own bags when shopping.

SATRA limits the use of single-use plastic packaging in displays and product packaging. Instead, the company has increased its use of trays and boxes made from biodegradable materials to help reduce plastic waste in the environment.

In parallel, the company uses electronic invoices, digital documents, and management software to minimize paper printing. Identifying green consumption and environmental protection as one of its sustainable development orientations, the company has replaced all lighting with energy-saving LEDs, optimized the cooling system to reduce electricity consumption, and is researching the installation of rooftop solar power systems at some business locations. Supermarkets and shopping centers within the system have implemented smart charging stations, aiming for the use of environmentally friendly energy.

Green consumption and environmental protection are among SATRA's sustainable development orientations. Photo: SATRA

Green consumption and environmental protection are among SATRA's sustainable development orientations. Photo: SATRA

To encourage green production and consumption in the community, SATRA prioritizes partners that supply products with environmental certifications. This retail system has joined the "Green Responsibility" program initiated by the Ho Chi Minh City Department of Industry and Trade. Last May, SATRA signed a memorandum of understanding with about 10 typical suppliers – pioneers in the "Green Responsibility" program. Vu Duong Quan, Head of SATRA's Retail System Management, added that the company is expanding the program to all suppliers to enhance quality standards and transparency throughout the supply chain.

Accordingly, suppliers participating in the program are prioritized for long-term contracts to ensure stable output for their products. They are also given priority for contracts to enter SATRA's new points of sale and online sales channels.

Products in the program are also displayed prominently in separate areas at supermarkets and stores and are labeled with the "Green Responsibility" logo for easy customer identification. The system also prioritizes promoting these products through media channels such as websites, fan pages, leaflets, and electronic boards to encourage green production and consumption.

To date, about 14 businesses have registered for "Green Responsibility" at SATRA's retail system. Over 64 products in categories such as fruits and vegetables, eggs, and coffee that meet the criteria of "sustainable - safe - responsible - transparent" are available at Satramart supermarkets and Satrafoods stores.

Customers choose products participating in "Green Responsibility". Photo: SATRA

Customers choose products participating in "Green Responsibility". Photo: SATRA

In addition, to enhance the quality of green products, SATRA's retail system also aims to develop organic items. Accordingly, SATRA's points of sale are diversifying and expanding their organic product lines, from fruits, vegetables, rice, grains, eggs, and milk to processed foods with domestic and international certifications (USDA, EU Organic) and domestic (TCVN 11041 Organic Vietnam). SATRA also prioritizes long-term cooperation with organic farms and producers that apply chemical-free farming practices, reduce emissions, and conserve soil ecosystems.

Organic certified products are displayed in dedicated, attractive, and easily visible areas at SATRA. The system is also increasing the display area for organic products at supermarkets and stores, along with clear information about origin and production processes to build consumer trust.

Furthermore, to support businesses selling certified "green" products, SATRA is developing regular promotional programs, dedicating web pages to green businesses' products, and offering organic product combos to attract consumers. The company also implements communication programs, cooking experience workshops, organic product trials, and shares knowledge about the health and environmental benefits of organic food to raise consumer awareness, thereby promoting green, safe, and sustainable consumption habits.

SATRA's retail system supports businesses selling certified "green" products. Photo: SATRA

SATRA's retail system supports businesses selling certified "green" products. Photo: SATRA

Sharing further with VnExpress, Quan said that the "greening" activities of SATRA's system not only help mitigate negative environmental impacts but also demonstrate the company's long-term commitment to developing business in conjunction with social responsibility and sustainable development goals, contributing to spreading a green and sustainable lifestyle to the community.

Hoang Anh