In 2009, the U.S. economy emitted 6, 576 million metric tons of carbon dioxide equivalent (MMTCO2e), nearly 6% below the level of emissions for 2008, according to Emissions of Greenhouse Gases in the United States 2009.

FORBES: U.S. Carbon Emissions Plunge

This savings will come through a reduction of 5.2 million kilowatt hours of energy use annually, which is the equivalent of preventing 3, 700 metric tons of carbon emissions.

FORBES: Walmart Foundation donates $2 million to food banks

If Walmart is able to replicate their efforts on a national level, an 80 percent reduction in waste would be the equivalent of preventing 11.8 million metric tons of carbon dioxide emissions each year.

FORBES: Written by Melissa Hincha-Ownby