Final answer:
Walmart's focus on sustainability began as a defensive move against environmental criticism but evolved into a proactive commitment with ambitious targets like zero global emissions by 2040 and the use of renewable energy and electric vehicles.
Step-by-step explanation:
It is true that Walmart initiated its focus on sustainability as a defensive move in response to environmental activists' criticisms. Over time, this defensive stance transitioned into a proactive approach to sustainability. Walmart's current sustainability goals include reducing global emissions to zero by 2040, which involves powering facilities with 100 percent renewable energy and using electric vehicles with zero emissions. Although the company's efforts initially stem from external pressure, they come to represent a broader commitment towards environmental responsibility and a challenge to market peers and governments to address climate change.
Walmart faced criticism and pressure from environmental activists due to its large carbon footprint and negative impact on the environment. In response, the company made sustainability a priority to regain a positive public image and address the concerns raised by activists. Walmart announced plans to reduce its global emissions to zero by 2040, invest in renewable energy, and work towards becoming a regenerative company.