Here's a look at Lowe's 2015 Corporate Social Responsibility report

Lowe's Companies took a moment to reflect on its progress with the release of its 2015 Corporate Social Responsibility Report (CSR).

Among other highlights, the retailer noted increased participation in employee volunteer and benefits programs, as well as progress on a number of other significant fronts such as  waste reduction, energy, workplace safety and diversity, product sustainability and charitable giving.

"As a purpose-driven company, Lowe's is committed to helping people love where they live. That's the lens we use to do what's right for customers and our communities," Robert Niblock says in the report's CEO Letter. "This report is a demonstration of that commitment. I'm proud of what we accomplished in 2015, and I'm looking forward to building on our momentum."

Here are some highlights:

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  More than $33 million in charitable contributions via Lowe's and the Lowe's Charitable and Educational Foundation, with the help of more than 43,000 Lowe's Heroes employee volunteers.


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  For the first time, every single Lowe's store in the United States (more than 1,700 stores) participated in a Lowe's Heroes volunteer project.


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  The 10-year anniversary of Lowe's Toolbox for Education, which has awarded $48 million in grants to more than 6 million children and nearly 11,000 schools.


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  The removal of ortho-phthalate plasticizers from all residential vinyl flooring. Additionally, Lowe's committed to phasing out the sale of products that contain neonic pesticides within 48 months to support pollinator health. Lowe's also announced plans to eliminate window coverings with accessible cords from its in-stock assortment by the end of 2018.


• 
  The launch of a mentoring program that pairs female and minority store managers with market directors to grow their leadership skills.


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  Lowe's mobile health-screening units completed 111,792 free health screenings for employees, a 10% increase from 2014.